Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Gazzew U4Tx offer unique features and characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Keygeek Raw stands out for its blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon materials, resulting in a creamy yet lightweight switch that provides a textured feel straight out of the box. Ideal for enthusiasts who prefer hand-lubing their switches, the Keygeek Raw is categorized as 'Textured', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Subtle'. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx combines the deep, resonant "thock" of the U4T with the whisper-quiet stealth of the U4, creating a satisfying tactile bump with a refined sound profile. Categorized as 'Bassy', 'Muted', and 'Sharp', the U4Tx offers a luxurious 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Gazzew U4Tx, one major similarity is that both switches use proprietary plastic blends for their top and bottom housings. The Keygeek Raw utilizes a blend of Nylon & UPE for its top housing, while the U4Tx incorporates a Gazzew blend that is often referred to as "boba plastic" due to its softness. This results in a rich and deep sound profile for both switches, enhancing the overall typing experience.
However, a key difference between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The Keygeek Raw features a blend of UMPE & Si for its bottom housing, while the U4Tx utilizes the same proprietary Gazzew blend as its top housing. This means that the Keygeek Raw split the qualities of its housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing having a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the U4Tx maintains consistency in its housing materials throughout, potentially leading to a more uniform typing experience.
Despite these differences, both switches offer unique benefits in terms of sound profile and typing feel. The Keygeek Raw's use of different materials for the top and bottom housings may provide a varied typing experience, while the Gazzew U4Tx's consistent use of its proprietary blend ensures a cohesive sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound characteristics.
Weight
In comparing the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is evident that both have a similar actuation force of None grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Keygeek Raw is lighter at 57.5 grams, while the Gazzew U4Tx is slightly heavier at 62.5 grams. The Keygeek Raw offers a more moderate typing experience with its medium bottom out force, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx provides a slightly heavier and more substantial typing feel, ideal for users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Keygeek Raw being on the lighter side and the Gazzew U4Tx offering a slightly heavier option.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those seeking quicker response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Keygeek Raw for rapid key presses. However, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be significant enough to noticeably impact performance for most users. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, providing a responsive typing or gaming 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 U4Tx 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 Keygeek Raw switch offers a neutral profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and settings. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switch provides a bassy and muted sound profile, delivering a deeper and richer tone while also being quieter overall. The decision between the two would depend on personal preference and the environment in which the keyboard will be used.
In terms of feel, the Keygeek Raw switch provides a textured and mild typing experience, with a subtle resistance that is comfortable for extended use. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx switch offers a sharp tactile bump, providing intense feedback with each keypress. Again, the choice between the two would come down to individual preferences for typing feel and feedback intensity.
Overall, both the Keygeek Raw and Gazzew U4Tx switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. Whether you prefer a neutral sound profile with a gentle typing experience like the Keygeek Raw, or a bassy sound with a sharp tactile feedback like the Gazzew U4Tx, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two would come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a slightly textured feel and a lightweight switch that's perfect for hand-lubing, the Keygeek Raw may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that provides a luxurious typing experience with a sharp, satisfying tactile bump and a refined sound profile that combines deep bass tones with quiet key presses, then the Gazzew U4Tx is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize texture and customization with the Keygeek Raw, or a premium typing experience with the Gazzew U4Tx.
Mentioned in this article
