Jerrzi Honey Bean vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Gazzew U4T mechanical keyboard switches, one can find key differences that cater to various preferences and needs. The Honey Bean switch offers a smooth and linear typing experience that is ideal for quiet environments like offices or shared spaces due to its silent operation. On the other hand, the U4T switch provides a more pronounced tactile feedback and a satisfying 'thock' sound profile, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a more tactile and audible 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
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Gazzew U4T switches both offer deep and rich sound profiles due to their unique materials. The Honey Bean features POM top and bottom housings, while the U4T has a proprietary Gazzew blend for both top and bottom housings. Both materials are known for creating a pleasing sound, with the POM housing on the Honey Bean offering a relatively muted tone compared to the softness of the Gazzew blend on the U4T. Despite the differences in material, both switches provide similar results in terms of sound quality, making them popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts.
In terms of feel and sound, the bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. The POM bottom housing on the Honey Bean and the Gazzew blend bottom housing on the U4T both contribute to the overall tactile experience of pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the top housing of a switch is more influential in the sound that is produced when a key is released. The POM top housing on the Honey Bean and the Gazzew blend top housing on the U4T help to create a distinct sound profile that is deep and rich, adding to the overall typing experience.
While the housing materials of the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Gazzew U4T are different, they both offer unique qualities that contribute to a satisfying typing experience. The POM housings on the Honey Bean provide a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the proprietary Gazzew blend on the U4T delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. Despite these differences, both switches are designed to enhance the overall sound and feel of typing, making them popular choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a high-quality switch with unique characteristics.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is evident that the Honey Bean is the lighter option with an actuation force of 42 grams. In contrast, the U4T is the heavier option with a bottom out force of 65 grams. Both switches have an unknown force for one of the measurements, but it can be assumed that the force required for triggering a keystroke on the U4T is lower than bottoming out on the Honey Bean. This means that the typing experience on the Honey Bean may feel lighter and more effortless, while the U4T may provide a more substantial and satisfying push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm compared to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Honey Bean offers slightly less travel distance when pressing down on a key. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the U4T being slightly longer. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Honey Bean, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the U4T. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Honey Bean has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey Bean for $3.59.
The Gazzew U4T 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 Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch offers a muted typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a softer and quieter sound profile during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch provides a unique auditory sensation with its bassy 'thock' sound that adds a deep and rich tone to each keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience with a satisfying sound feedback. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their preference for noise level and tone richness.
In terms of feel, the Honey Bean linear switch is designed to be easy-to-press, providing a gentle resistance that requires minimal force for activation. This light actuation force not only makes typing effortless but also reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offers a sharp tactile feedback with a strong and crisp bump that is distinct and prominent with each keypress. This intense tactile sensation enhances typing accuracy and overall typing feel for those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback while typing.
In conclusion, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Honey Bean provides a quiet and easy-to-press typing experience, the U4T delivers a bassy 'thock' sound and sharp tactile feedback for a more intense typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you value a silent typing experience that is perfect for office settings or shared spaces, the Honey Bean switches are the way to go. With their light and linear action, they provide a discreet yet satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and a bassy 'thock' sound profile that adds an auditory satisfaction to your typing experience, the U4T switches are your best bet. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will come down to whether you prioritize a quiet typing experience with light actuation (Honey Bean) or a tactile and audibly satisfying experience (U4T).
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