HMX Jelly vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Jelly and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB can significantly influence your typing experience. The HMX Jelly switches are celebrated for their low-pitched, deep thocky sound signature, offering a super smooth keypress thanks to excellent factory lubrication and a lightweight actuation force of 42g. This linear switch is ideal for those who prefer a silent and uninterrupted typing experience, making it a great choice for gaming or fast-paced typing. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches excel in delivering a luxurious typing experience with their refined sound profile and distinctive tactile bump. The combination of the deeper "thock" sound when bottoming out and the quieter stealthy response at the top makes them perfect for users who enjoy tactile feedback while still valuing a more subdued auditory experience. Each switch provides unique advantages depending on your typing style and preferences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Jelly Linear

Gazzew U4Tx RGB 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 Jelly and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches, it is evident that both options employ softer plastics to enhance the sound profile during use. The Jelly features a nylon top housing, a classic material known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and richer auditory experience. This characteristic is particularly desirable for typists seeking a fuller sound. Similarly, the U4Tx RGB utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend, often referred to as "boba plastic." This unique formulation also prioritizes softness, further contributing to a rich and captivating sound profile. Therefore, while the specific materials differ, they share the common attribute of delivering a rounded and lush auditory experience, appealing to users who value sound quality in their typing.

Looking deeper into the bottom housing of these switches, we find parallels once again. The Jelly's nylon bottom housing sustains the same tonal qualities expressed in its top counterpart, supporting a duller and fuller sound with each keystroke. The Gazzew U4Tx RGB's bottom housing, constructed from the proprietary Gazzew blend, also focuses on providing a rich sound experience due to its inherent softness. This similarity suggests that regardless of the material differences, both switches are engineered to manage sound absorption effectively, leading to a smooth and cohesive sound profile throughout the typing experience. This results in an overall typing feel that is pleasant and engaging, as the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound while maintaining auditory consistency.

While the top and bottom housing materials of these switches differ, the overall performance in terms of sound and typing experience remains remarkably similar. Each switch is designed in such a way that the qualities of the soft plastics are effectively distributed between both parts, leading to a holistic typing experience that minimizes harsh sounds and promotes a deep auditory response. So, whether one opts for the HMX Jelly with its nylon components or the Gazzew U4Tx RGB with its specialized blend, both switches will yield similar results in terms of sound richness and tactile performance. This allows users to choose based on personal preference while still assuring an enjoyable sound profile that enhances their keyboard experience.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch to the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The HMX Jelly features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a great option for those who prefer a lighter feel, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB has a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a firmer feel, but lacks a specified actuation force. Therefore, while the Jelly is clearly the lighter option overall, the U4Tx provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. This distinction caters to different user preferences; lighter switches are often favored for comfort and prolonged use, while heavier switches are selected for their robust tactile feedback. Thus, if you value a lighter touch, the HMX Jelly would be the preferable choice.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, it is clear that the Jelly switch has a longer distance at 3.8 mm, while the U4Tx RGB measures at 3.6 mm. This difference, though slight, indicates that those who favor a more substantial feel during typing or gaming might prefer the Jelly switch for its deeper travel. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the U4Tx RGB could appeal to gamers seeking a quicker response time without the sensation of a long press. As such, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB may better suit your needs, while the HMX Jelly would be ideal for a more satisfying depth in keystrokes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Jelly linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched, deep thocky sound signature, creating a resonant acoustic profile that many find satisfying during use. This contrasts with the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, which combines a deep "thock" when bottoming out with the quieter sound profile of a soft topping out. The result is a refined auditory experience that maintains a level of discretion, making it suitable for environments where noise might be a concern. While the Jelly's sound is more pronounced, the U4Tx RGB offers a blend of richness and subtlety, though both switches will ultimately sound different depending on the keyboard they are mounted on, as well as the keycap material and design.

When it comes to feel, the Jelly linear switch is known for its super smooth action, enhanced by excellent factory lubrication, making it feel lightweight and effortless to type on, with a 42g actuation force that many users appreciate for fast-paced typing. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch presents a tactile bump that adds a refined feedback mechanism, providing a sense of confirmation with each keystroke. This tactile experience, combined with its softer topping out phase, offers a luxurious typing sensation that many typists and gamers favor. While the Jelly presents a linear smoothness without tactile feedback, those who seek a more pronounced tactile experience may find the U4Tx RGB more appealing.

Overall, both the HMX Jelly and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches cater to different preferences in the keyboard enthusiast community. The Jelly’s deeper and more pronounced sound profile is balanced by its smooth and lightweight linear feel, while the U4Tx RGB combines a unique sound signature with a tactile bump that enhances the typing experience. Ultimately, your preference will guide you to the switch that best suits your needs, whether you desire the smoothness of a linear switch or the tactile feedback of a tactile switch.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences and usage scenario. If you prioritize a smooth and lightweight typing experience with a low-pitched, thocky sound that provides an enjoyable auditory feedback, the Jelly switch is an excellent option. Its 48-gram bottom-out force makes it particularly suitable for users who favor fast-paced typing or gaming, where quick actuation and ease of keystrokes can enhance performance. On the other hand, if you seek a more tactile feel with a pronounced bump that delivers a satisfying typing experience, the U4Tx RGB switch is your go-to choice. With a medium-heavy 65-gram bottom-out force, it provides substantial resistance that many find gratifying for general typing, programming, or office work. The refined sound profile of the U4Tx RGB combines the deep thock from bottoming out with a quiet top-out, making it an ideal selection for those who desire both auditory pleasure and tactile feedback without excess noise. In summary, consider the Jelly for speed and smoothness, while the U4Tx RGB excels in tactility and a more pronounced feel.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Jelly Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more