Kailh BCP vs. Gazzew U4T

Overview

When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh BCP and Gazzew U4T offer distinct experiences catering to different preferences. The Kailh BCP, a linear switch, reimagines the traditional Black Cherry Pies with custom-molded technology, providing a creamy, viscous feel that is elastic and bouncy. Its unique design eliminates disassembly hassles, making it an attractive option for those who prioritize a smooth and uninterrupted typing experience, accentuated by a poppy and clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T stands out as a tactile switch, delivering an impressive combination of thockiness and sharp tactile feedback. With its bassy 'thock' sound, each keystroke offers both auditory and tactile satisfaction, ideal for users who enjoy a pronounced response when typing. While both switches boast their own merits—smoothness versus tactile feedback, linearity versus tactility—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Kailh BCP Linear

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh BCP and the Gazzew U4T switches, it is evident that both utilize different forms of nylon, yet they aim to achieve a similar auditory experience characterized by rich and deep sound profiles. The Kailh BCP features a top and bottom housing made from traditional nylon, a material renowned for its ability to absorb sound waves effectively, thus creating a fuller and more rounded acoustical output. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T employs a proprietary "boba plastic" blend that shares similarities with nylon in terms of softness. This boba plastic is designed to dampen sound as well, delivering results that parallel the tonal qualities found in the BCP switches. Essentially, while the materials differ, both are engineered to enhance sound absorption, ensuring a satisfying auditory response during typing.

Contrasting the two, the BCP's consistent use of nylon throughout both the top and bottom housing delivers a unified sound experience when typing. With both parts constructed from the same material, the interaction of each housing contributes to the overall tactile feedback and sound signature, allowing for predictable and harmonious performance. In contrast, the U4T employs its proprietary blend for both housing sections, which could potentially create a slightly varied sound profile owing to the material distinction. However, because both housings in the U4T are also formulated from soft materials, they too contribute to a cohesive auditory experience, albeit through a unique composition. This blend of materials may introduce subtle differences in sound and feel, creating a different typing sensation despite aiming for a similar auditory effect.

The implications of these material differences also extend into the user experience. As noted, the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound during key release. In both switch models, the nylon and boba plastic's softness allows for a comfortable and muted bottoming-out feedback, creating a pleasant typing experience. Users might find the typing sound to be distinct yet comparably satisfying, irrespective of whether they choose the BCP or the U4T. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will hinge on personal preference for the specific material characteristics, while still leading to an equivalently rich and deep sound profile during interactions with the keys.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, we find that both switches have a medium-heavy feel, making them suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. The Kailh BCP has a well-defined actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which allows for a consistent and controlled keystroke response. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T lacks an explicitly stated actuation force, but its bottom out force is slightly higher at 65 grams. This suggests that while overall actuation might feel similar, the U4T could require a bit more force to register a full keystroke, leading to a heavier tactile experience compared to the BCP. Ultimately, the Kailh BCP is the lighter option when considering the specified actuation force, while both switches present a medium-heavy bottom out force. Those seeking longer typing sessions may lean towards the BCP, while users desiring a stronger push may find the U4T appealing.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, a notable difference emerges. The Kailh BCP has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4T offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that if you prefer quicker responsiveness and faster actuation, the shorter Kailh BCP may be the better choice, appealing especially to gamers who favor rapid key presses. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying and profound typing experience for those who appreciate a greater depth when pressing keys. Ultimately, the decision between these switches hinges on personal preference, balancing the desire for responsiveness versus a more tactile, deeper experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh BCP switch is characterized by a poppy and clacky sound profile, which creates an engaging auditory experience during typing. This lively sound not only enhances the typing rhythm but also draws a clear distinction from more muted switches. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switch produces a bassy and thocky sound, offering a deeper, richer auditory experience with each keystroke. The combination of thockiness provides a satisfying resonance that is felt almost as much as it is heard, making every press feel substantial and enjoyable. While both switches have distinct sound profiles—one being more sharp and playful and the other deeper and more resonant—environmental factors such as the keyboard body and keycap choice will influence the final audio experience.

When considering the feel of each switch, the BCP offers a creamy, viscous, elastic, and bouncy sensation that delivers a smooth typing experience, which promotes enjoyable long typing sessions without fatigue. This unique blend contributes to a sense of fluidity and responsiveness that typists often seek. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T is known for its pronounced tactile feedback, providing a sharp and strong tactile bump with each press. This creates a clear distinction with every keystroke, giving typists an assertive response that many find highly satisfying. While the BCP emphasizes a soft, flowing feel, the U4T focuses on delivering a crisp tactile experience, catering to different preferences in typing dynamics.

In conclusion, the Kailh BCP and Gazzew U4T switches cater to differing auditory and tactile preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The BCP’s poppy sound and smooth, elastic feel contrast with the U4T’s bassy, thocky sound and sharp tactile feedback. Users looking for a light, lively typing experience may gravitate toward the BCP, while those who prefer a pronounced tactile response combined with deep sound may favor the U4T. Both switches excel in their respective qualities, ensuring that regardless of choice, users will have a gratifying typing experience tailored to their preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the typing experience you seek. If you lean towards a vibrant, energetic typing experience with a poppy sound and a creamy, bouncy feel, the BCP is an excellent choice. It offers a unique auditory and tactile experience that is particularly engaging for typists who enjoy a more fluid and playful interaction with their keyboard. On the other hand, if you crave strong tactile feedback paired with a deeper, richer acoustic profile, the Gazzew U4T is the way to go. Its sharp tactility and thocky sound deliver an assertive sensation with every keystroke, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more definitive confirmation with each press. Ultimately, consider what aspects of sound and feel are most important to you: go for the Kailh BCP for a lively, linear experience or the Gazzew U4T for satisfying tactile feedback.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh BCP Linear

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more