Jwick Ginger Milk vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gazzew U4Tx. The Ginger Milk, known for its soft and pastel appearance, offers a typing experience that is silky smooth and approachable. With a muted, snappy sound profile, this linear switch falls under the category of 'Neutral' and 'Buttery'. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx combines the best of both worlds, featuring a refined sound profile that is cleaner. This tactile switch provides a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out, complemented by a whisper-quiet topping out. Categorized as 'Bassy', 'Muted', and 'Sharp', each press delivers a sharp, satisfying tactile bump for a luxurious typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gazzew U4Tx differ in terms of their housing materials. The Ginger Milk features a polycarbonate top housing, while the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing. Both materials have their unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The polycarbonate used in the Ginger Milk's top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. In contrast, the Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. While they offer different sound profiles, users can expect a satisfying auditory experience from both switches.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Ginger Milk employs a nylon material known for providing a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the U4Tx uses a Gazzew blend bottom housing, similar to its top housing material. This proprietary plastic blend, referred to as "boba plastic," contributes to a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Both switch models offer a distinctive auditory experience that caters to different preferences.
It is worth noting that the qualities brought by each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is heavily influenced by the bottom housing material. On the other hand, the sound profile experienced when a key is released is more strongly influenced by the top housing material. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that is characterized by unique sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there are some noticeable similarities and differences. The Ginger Milk has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the U4Tx's actuation force is not specified. However, both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Ginger Milk requiring 63.5 grams and the U4Tx requiring 65 grams.
Consideration of weight is important as it directly impacts the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Ginger Milk, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing and is suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the U4Tx, which has a slightly heavier bottom out force. This heavier force can provide a stronger push feel and a more satisfying tactile experience for some users.
While the actuation force for the U4Tx is not provided, it can be assumed that since both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, they may provide similar results in terms of overall typing feel. However, without the specific actuation force for the U4Tx, it is difficult to make a direct comparison.
In conclusion, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch is lighter with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is slightly heavier with an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 65 grams. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired weight of the switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is clear that the Ginger Milk has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm compared to the U4Tx which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Although the difference is minimal, it is worth noting that both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become more popular in recent times. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, opting for the shorter Ginger Milk switch would be a suitable choice. However, for those who prefer a more substantial keypress and a deeper feel, the longer travel distance of the U4Tx may be more preferable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences regarding the depth and responsiveness desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
The Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch offers a muted, snappy sound profile. The sound is described as neutral, meaning it falls in the middle in terms of actuation force and sound volume, making it suitable for most situations. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch provides a cleaner, refined sound profile. It is characterized as bassy, with a deeper and richer sound resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, it is described as muted, which means it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical keyboard switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ginger Milk linear switch offers a silky smooth and approachable push feel. The typing experience with these switches is described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a sharp tactile bump with each keypress. The tactile feedback is intense and crisp, providing a distinctive experience.
In conclusion, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch offers a muted, snappy sound profile and a buttery smooth typing experience. It provides a moderate actuation force requirement and a sound profile suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch provides a cleaner, refined sound profile with a deeper and richer bassy sound. It offers a sharp and distinct tactile bump, ensuring a luxurious and acoustically pleasing typing experience. While they differ in sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and the desired typing experience, either switch can provide satisfying results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style.
If you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a silky smooth typing experience, the Ginger Milk is the ideal choice for you. The soft and pastel design of the Ginger Milk reflects its gentle and approachable push feel, accompanied by a muted and snappy sound profile. This switch is suitable for both beginners and advanced typists, making it versatile for any environment, whether it be at home or in the office.
On the other hand, if you prefer a cleaner and refined sound profile with a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, the Gazzew U4Tx is the switch for you. This switch combines the deep and resonant "thock" of the U4T when bottoming out with the whisper-quiet stealth of the U4 when topping out. The result is a luxurious typing experience that is acoustically pleasing and tactically satisfying.
In terms of sound, the Ginger Milk offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most purposes. The U4Tx, on the other hand, provides a deeper and richer sound with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the U4Tx has a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Ginger Milk is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx provides a sharp tactile feedback, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress.
Ultimately, the choice between the Ginger Milk and the U4Tx boils down to whether you prioritize a smooth linear switch or a tactile switch with a cleaner sound profile. Consider your typing preferences and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard to make the best decision for your needs.