HMX Gravel vs. Gazzew U4T

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Gravel and the Gazzew U4T represent two distinct approaches that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Gravel, known for its smooth and refined feel, is a linear switch that offers a medium-light actuation force, making it ideal for those who seek a responsive and effortless typing experience without the distraction of tactile bumps or clicks. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T is a tactile switch that delights users with its pronounced tactile feedback and a deep, bassy 'thock' sound profile. This combination creates an engaging experience for typists who appreciate the audible and tactile sensations that accompany each keystroke. While the Gravel excels in providing a fluid typing motion, the U4T delivers a satisfying tactile punch that can enhance both typing and gaming experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Gravel Linear

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Gravel and the Gazzew U4T, a marked distinction emerges between their top housings. The Gravel utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for its rigidity and clarity. This material contributes to a sharp, high-pitched sound profile that resonates crisply, making it ideal for a brighter auditory experience, particularly when complemented by RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the U4T employs a proprietary Gazzew blend, often described as "boba plastic," which prioritizes softness over rigidity. This softer material fosters a deeper, richer sound profile, offering a more subdued auditory experience. While the Gravel leans towards brightness, the U4T’s top housing promotes a warmer character, enabling typists to subtly differentiate the tonal qualities of each switch when typing.

Upon examining the bottom housings, both switches reveal a shared philosophy in utilizing softer materials to yield a fuller sound profile. The Gravel features a nylon bottom housing, which is traditional in keyboard switch design. Nylon's inherent properties absorb sound, resulting in a duller yet rounder auditory output. Conversely, the U4T’s bottom housing employs the same proprietary Gazzew blend as its top, which also emphasizes softness. This similarity suggests that both switches aim to produce a rich sound experience using softer materials in the lower housing, leading to a deeper bottom-out experience. As a result, the listening experience may converge on certain levels, with both switches offering a fuller sound profile from the softer bottom housings, while the top housings dictate the overall tonal variance.

The interplay between the top and bottom housings is critical in determining the overall sound experience of each switch. For the Gravel, the stiffer polycarbonate top delivers a brighter clarity when releasing keys, while the nylon bottom softens the impact during a keypress. This combination leads to a typing experience that is both nuanced and textured. In contrast, the U4T presents a more uniform sound family due to the homogeneity of its Gazzew blend across both the top and bottom housing. This consistency may provide a cohesive soundscape that appeals to typists seeking a rich and deep auditory feedback without the sharpness found in the Gravel. Ultimately, while the two switches leverage different materials for their top housings, they converge towards similar rich sound profiles due to their shared emphasis on softer bottom housing materials, potentially resulting in comparable typing experiences despite their distinct tonal signatures.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, notable differences emerge. The Gravel switch features a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable option for users who prefer longer typing sessions without exerting too much effort. In contrast, the U4T switch has an unknown actuation force but a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating that it requires more force to fully depress the switch. This makes the U4T better suited for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, as the heavier force provides a distinctive tactile feedback. As such, the Gravel switch is the lighter option, while the U4T is the heavier one. Overall, users looking for comfort and ease during prolonged use may gravitate towards the Gravel, while those desiring firmer feedback might prefer the U4T, especially when considering their respective bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The HMX Gravel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm. This distinction makes the Gravel the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that can be appealing for gamers who favor quick keystrokes and faster response times. On the other hand, the U4T’s longer travel distance of 4 mm offers a heartier depth, which may be preferred by users who appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback while typing. Thus, the Gravel promotes speed and responsiveness, whereas the U4T caters to those who enjoy a fuller travel experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Gravel switch is characterized by its smooth typing experience, which typically means it operates relatively quietly compared to tactile or clicky switches. However, the exact auditory qualities are not defined, leaving room for discretion. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T switch features a distinctly bassy and thocky sound profile. This provides a satisfying acoustic feedback that resonates with a deeper, richer sound akin to a solid "thud" or a gentle "knock," making it a more pronounced option for those who appreciate auditory cues with each keystroke.

In terms of feel, the HMX Gravel switch emphasizes a smooth and refined typing experience, offering a medium-light actuation force that enhances the overall quickness and ease of typing. This switch is designed for a fluid experience but lacks specific tactile feedback descriptors. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switch boasts an assertive tactile feedback with sharp bumps, delivering strong and crisp tactile sensations with every keypress. The U4T is clearly engineered for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile engagement during typing, which can significantly enhance the typing experience.

In conclusion, while the HMX Gravel and Gazzew U4T switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, they both offer distinct typing experiences. The Gravel is smooth and quiet, ideal for users who prioritize an effortless typing experience, while the U4T delivers a satisfying thocky sound and sharp tactile feedback, perfect for those who crave a more robust auditory and tactile experience. If you prefer a rich auditory experience with tactile feedback, the U4T stands out, while the Gravel is suited for a gentler touch.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, your personal preferences and typing needs will ultimately guide your choice. If you prioritize a light and smooth typing experience, the Gravel's 50-gram bottom-out force and exceptional smoothness may suit you perfectly, making it an ideal companion for fast-paced typing or gaming. Its lightweight actuation allows for quick key presses without any strain, perfect for those who enjoy a more fluid keystroke. Conversely, if you appreciate pronounced tactile feedback and a more substantial actuation force, the 65-gram bottom-out of the U4T offers a satisfying resistance that can enhance your typing experience. The U4T's thocky, bassy sound and sharp tactile bump deliver an auditory and tactile delight with each keystroke, which is particularly compelling for typists who enjoy a more engaging and deliberate response. In essence, choose the Gravel for a gentle, smooth touch suitable for lengthy sessions of typing or gaming, while opting for the U4T if you favor a substantial, tactile engagement with each keystroke and enjoy the deeper sound profile it provides.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Gravel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

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Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more