Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it becomes evident that each offers unique qualities to cater to different preferences. The Keygeek Raw is praised for its creamy yet lightweight feel, thanks to its Nylon and UMPE top housing combined with UMPE and Silicon bottom housing. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T stands out for its harmonious blend of thockiness and sharp tactility, providing a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback. While the Keygeek Raw offers a textured and mild typing experience, the Gazzew U4T delivers a sharper and more pronounced tactile response. 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Keygeek Raw and Gazzew U4T switches are both unique and proprietary blends that aim to enhance the overall typing experience. The Keygeek Raw features a Nylon & UPE blend top housing, while the Gazzew U4T boasts a Gazzew blend top housing, sometimes called "boba plastic." Both of these materials are known for delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to their softness. However, the specific composition of each blend may result in slight variations in sound and feel when typing on these switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Keygeek Raw utilizes a UMPE & Si blend, exclusive to their switches, while the Gazzew U4T incorporates its proprietary Gazzew blend. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed. With the Keygeek Raw's unique blend, users can expect a certain level of tactile feedback and responsiveness, while the Gazzew U4T's blend may offer a slightly different typing experience. These differences in material composition can lead to varying levels of perceived tactility and sound when typing on these switches.
Overall, while the Keygeek Raw and Gazzew U4T may share similarities in their top housing materials resulting in a rich and deep sound profile, the differences lie in their bottom housing compositions. The blend of materials used in the bottom housing can significantly impact the overall typing experience, from the tactile feedback to the sound produced. Whether you prefer the unique blend of the Keygeek Raw or the proprietary Gazzew blend of the U4T, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is evident that the Keygeek Raw is lighter in terms of bottom out force, requiring 57.5 grams compared to the U4T's 65 grams, which is medium-heavy. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, but it can be assumed to be relatively light since they are both linear switches. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Keygeek Raw may be the better option, as it allows for longer typing periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the U4T provides a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch is 3.4 mm, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Keygeek Raw has a shorter travel distance compared to the U4T. The shorter travel distance of the Keygeek Raw may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the U4T may provide a more substantial and satisfying keystroke for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, we can see a clear difference in their auditory profiles. The Keygeek Raw switch offers a neutral sound profile, which is moderate and versatile for various typing environments and experiences. On the other hand, the U4T switch provides a bassy and thocky sound profile, giving a deeper and richer tone with a satisfying thud or knock sensation upon each key press. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, catering to different preferences based on sound depth and richness.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Keygeek Raw switch is noted for its textured feel out of the box, providing a slightly scratchy sensation that may appeal to users seeking a unique tactile experience. Additionally, the mild and subtle nature of the Keygeek Raw switch offers a gentle typing feel suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T switch presents a sharp tactile bump that is intense and prominent with each keystroke, delivering a crisp feedback that distinguishes it from the smoother and more subdued feel of the Keygeek Raw switch. The sharp tactility of the U4T switch offers a distinct typing experience for users who value pronounced tactile feedback in their switches.
In conclusion, the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Keygeek Raw switch provides a neutral sound profile with a textured and mild typing feel, the Gazzew U4T switch delivers a bassy thockiness and sharp tactile feedback with a distinctly crisp sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound depth, tactile intensity, and typing feel. Users can expect unique and satisfying typing experiences from both switches, each catering to different preferences within the realm of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, material blend, sound profile, and tactile feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a creamy, lightweight switch with a slightly textured feel, the Keygeek Raw may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force, a bassy thock sound profile, and a sharp tactile bump with intense feedback, the Gazzew U4T could be the perfect fit for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and sound profile.
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