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Dareu Holly vs. Gazzew U4Tx

An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Holly and the Gazzew U4Tx offer unique experiences for users. The Holly, with its medium 50g actuation force, provides a balanced and distinctive typing experience with a sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements. On the other hand, the U4Tx switches marry the best of both worlds by offering a cleaner, refined sound profile that combines a deep, resonant thock when bottoming out with a whisper-quiet topping out sound. Each press on the U4Tx will provide a sharp, satisfying tactile bump for a luxurious typing experience. While the Holly is categorized as chirpy, clacky, neutral, the U4Tx is categorized as bassy, muted, sharp. Both switches have their own strengths and unique characteristics, making them suitable for different preferences. 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

N/A

Bottom-out force

62.5g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

N/A

Total travel

4.00 mm

Total travel

3.60 mm

Factory lubed

Yes

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 Dareu Holly and the Gazzew U4Tx both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Holly's polycarbonate top housing is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound, while the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing produces a rich and deep sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Holly allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. On the other hand, the U4Tx's blend top housing offers a unique sound experience due to its softness, often referred to as "boba plastic".

While the top housings of the Dareu Holly and Gazzew U4Tx offer different sound profiles, their bottom housings share similarities in terms of material and impact on sound. The Holly's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing. Both nylon and the Gazzew blend are softer plastics that absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches. This shared characteristic between the bottom housings of the two switches contributes to a consistent sound experience across both models.

When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note how the qualities of each housing material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing tends to have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This distinction highlights the importance of selecting housing materials that complement each other to achieve the desired sound profile and typing experience. Ultimately, whether opting for the Dareu Holly or the Gazzew U4Tx, users can expect a unique and satisfying sound experience based on the combination of top and bottom housing materials used in each switch.

Weight

The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the U4Tx has a heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams, while the Holly's bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Holly may be the better option due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the U4Tx may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Holly offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a more substantial keypress feel, while the U4Tx offers a slightly shallower travel distance that may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time. Gamers may prefer the U4Tx for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster keypresses, while those seeking a more tactile and deep keypress experience may lean towards the Holly. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for keypress feel and response time.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.

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 Dareu Holly tactile switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch promises a refined sound profile with a deep "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sound. The U4Tx delivers a luxurious typing experience with a sharp, satisfying tactile bump. While the Holly leans towards a chirpy and clacky sound, the U4Tx offers a bassier and more muted sound profile, catering to those seeking a quieter typing experience.

In terms of feel, the Dareu Holly tactile switch does not have specific descriptors provided, making it difficult to compare directly with the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch. However, the U4Tx is described as having a sharp tactile bump that is strong and crisp, providing high feedback intensity with each keypress. This indicates that the U4Tx offers a tactile typing experience that is pronounced and satisfying for users who enjoy a prominent feedback sensation.

Overall, while both the Dareu Holly and Gazzew U4Tx tactile switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they cater to different preferences. The Holly provides a distinctive chirpy and clacky sound, while the U4Tx delivers a refined and bassy sound profile with a sharp tactile bump. Depending on whether you prefer a more distinct acoustic experience or a quieter, bassier sound, you can choose between these two tactile switches to enhance your typing experience. Additionally, it is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard layout, case material, and keycaps used, as they can also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, you should choose the Holly if you are looking for a medium actuation force switch with a unique sound profile that combines chirpy and clacky elements for a distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, you should opt for the U4Tx if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force that offers a refined, cleaner sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sound. Ultimately, your choice should depend on whether you prioritize sound characteristics, actuation force, or tactile feedback in your typing experience.

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