HMX KD200 vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX KD200 and Gazzew U4 stand out as two compelling options, each offering a distinct typing experience. The KD200, known for its clackiness, falls under the linear switch category, providing a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke that many typists love for gaming and fast-paced typing. It allows for rapid key presses without tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who prefer a more fluid and unbroken action. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 is a silent tactile switch that delivers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump accompanied by a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. This switch not only enhances feedback during typing but also boasts a muted sound profile, making it a great choice for quieter environments or office settings. Both switches cater to different preferences—KD200 for those who crave a loud and lively typing experience, and U4 for users seeking a more subtle, yet tactile feeling. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

HMX KD200 Linear

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The HMX KD200 and the Gazzew U4 both utilize materials renowned for their ability to produce rich and resonant sound profiles, although they differ slightly in composition. The KD200 employs traditional nylon for both the top and bottom housings, a classic choice in switch design. This material is praised for its softer texture, which results in a duller and rounder acoustic signature when typing. In contrast, the U4 features a proprietary plastic blend known as "boba plastic" for both its top and bottom housings. While Gazzew's blend is unique, it shares the soft properties of nylon, promising to deliver a similar depth in sound quality. Thus, both switches are designed with materials that absorb sound efficiently, providing a deeply satisfying auditory experience for users.

When we delve deeper into the specifics of each housing's influence on the switch's performance, we find that the differences may affect the overall typing experience. The KD200's nylon housing, being a standard in the switch community, provides a consistent and recognizable feel that many users appreciate. Meanwhile, the U4’s proprietary blend may introduce subtleties that differentiate it from standard nylon, potentially offering a unique tactile feedback. Nonetheless, since both rely on soft materials for their housings, one can expect both switches to share a similar acoustic character, albeit with variations in tactile sensation and responsiveness that may appeal to different typing preferences.

In practical terms, both the KD200 and Gazzew U4 promise to create a satisfying keypress experience rooted in their use of soft materials. The influence of the top housing becomes particularly significant upon key release, contributing to the sound profile that typists encounter. While the bottom housing primarily determines the bottom-out sound and feel, the shared characteristics of softer plastics mean that users of either switch can anticipate a rounded, full sound as well as a comforting and enveloping typing experience. Ultimately, regardless of subtle differences in construction, both switches can achieve similar acoustic and tactile results through their reliance on soft, sound-absorbing materials.

Weight

The HMX KD200 linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch exhibit similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, allowing for an equal ease of triggering keystrokes, which can benefit typists or gamers who prefer a lighter touch for extended use. However, the U4 distinguishes itself with a significantly higher bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the KD200's 50 grams. This difference indicates that while both switches require the same amount of force to activate, the U4 provides a heavier and more substantial feel when fully pressed down, making it more suitable for those who enjoy a firmer typing experience. As such, the KD200 is the lighter option overall, benefitting users looking for prolonged comfort, while the Gazzew U4 caters to individuals who prefer a heavier, more tactile feedback.

Travel distance

The HMX KD200 linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch exhibit notable differences in their travel distances, with the KD200 having a travel distance of 3.5 mm and the U4 at 3.6 mm. The U4, with its 3.6 mm travel distance, offers a slightly deeper feel compared to the KD200, making it potentially more suitable for users who appreciate a more substantial key press. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the KD200 may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, aligning with the trend of modern switches that favor reduced distances for enhanced performance. Thus, while the difference is minimal, it positions the U4 as the longer option and the KD200 as the shorter one, catering to different preferences in the typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the HMX KD200 switch is famously characterized as clacky, which adds a vibrant and lively auditory presence to the typing experience. This quality can make it quite appealing for users who enjoy the traditional mechanical keyboard sound, creating an engaging atmosphere while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 switch presents a much quieter sound profile, described as muted and low-pitched. The U4’s whisper-quiet operation minimizes the clatter associated with mechanical keyboards, making it suitable for environments where noise level is a concern, such as shared workspaces or late-night typing sessions. Ultimately, while the KD200 is brimming with pronounced auditory feedback, the U4 caters to those who prefer a subdued sound.

When it comes to feel, the KD200's characteristics are not specified, but in contrast, the U4 tactile switch is known for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump. This distinctive tactile feedback provides a satisfying sensation with each keypress, making it engaging for typists who thrive on robust tactile responses. The U4 also features a plush bottom-out feel, which adds a degree of softness and comfort during long typing sessions, diminishing the impact felt on the fingers. This combination of a sharp tactile bump and a felt-like bottom-out experience offers a compelling alternative to traditional tactile switches, while the KD200’s feel, although unclear, may vary depending on individual preferences and typing styles.

In summary, the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer distinctly different auditory and tactile experiences. The KD200 is favored for its lively clackiness, providing an energetic typing experience, whereas the U4’s muted and low-pitched sound alongside its sharp tactile feedback caters to those seeking a quieter and notably tactile experience. While both switches can create engaging typing dynamics, the differences in sound and feel underscore the importance of personal preference when choosing a mechanical keyboard switch.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, you'll want to consider your typing preferences and usage scenarios carefully. If you enjoy a lighter touch and crave a more expressive auditory experience, the KD200 is likely your best bet. Its clackiness combined with its light bottom-out force of 50 grams makes it ideal for fast typists and gamers who benefit from quick keystrokes and a satisfying sound. However, if you prefer a more subdued, tactile feedback while typing, the U4 is the right choice for you. Its medium bottom-out force of 62 grams offers a plush and felt-like sensation upon bottoming out, providing a great tactile experience without overwhelming noise. The U4's sharp tactile bump is distinct and precise, making it perfect for those who appreciate feedback on their keypresses without the loud, clacky sound. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a lighter, more audible experience with the KD200, or a quieter, tactile one with the U4.

Mentioned in this article

HMX KD200 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more