Bsun Kiki Red vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Bsun Kiki Red and the Gazzew U4 are both exceptional mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. On one hand, the Kiki Red is a linear switch known for its finely-tuned typing experience, striking a balance between a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance and smooth actuation. This switch appeals to those who appreciate subtlety in auditory feedback and a medium-light weighting for precise typing performance. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 is a tactile switch that stands out for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, accompanied by a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. With a whisper-quiet sound profile, the U4 provides a more muted and low-pitched 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Gazzew U4 both play a significant role in determining the sound profile of the switches. The Kiki Red features POM top and bottom housings, which create a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and more muted. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend for both the top and bottom housings, known as "boba plastic," to deliver a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Despite the differences in material, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound profiles.
While the POM top and bottom housings of the Kiki Red contribute to its deep and pleasing sound profile, the Gazzew blend top and bottom housings of the U4 also offer a rich and deep sound with a unique softness. The Kiki Red's POM top housing influences the sound when a key is let go, while the POM bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed. Similarly, the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4 plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound upon key release. Both switches prioritize the sound experience for users, albeit through different material compositions.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Kiki Red and the Gazzew U4 utilize different housing materials, they ultimately aim to deliver a satisfying sound profile for users. The POM housings of the Kiki Red provide a unique sound that is deeper and more muted, while the Gazzew blend housings of the U4 offer a rich and deep sound with a softness that enhances the typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches prioritize sound quality and aim to provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is evident that the Kiki Red is lighter in both aspects. The Kiki Red has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a more lightweight option. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is slightly heavier compared to the Kiki Red. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their force specifications. Users who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Kiki Red for extended typing sessions, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Gazzew U4. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch both have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the key travel 3.6 mm from the top to the bottom. This makes them equal in terms of travel distance, so you can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and overall typing experience. Having the same travel distance ensures that both switches offer consistent key travel and actuation, making them both suitable options for those looking for a standard travel distance in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
The Gazzew U4 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
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is best known for its smooth and quiet typing experience. When it comes to sound, it offers a comfortably high-pitched and clacky nuance without being excessively loud. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch provides a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a whisper-quiet sound profile. The Kiki Red switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and crisp sound, while the U4 switch is muted and low-pitched, minimizing noise and offering a more bass-heavy tone. In terms of feel, the Kiki Red switch is known for its creamy, frictionless, and polished typing experience, offering a silky and snappy feel with easy-to-press actuation. The U4 switch, on the other hand, is described as sharp, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump with high feedback intensity. Overall, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is perfect for those looking for a plush bottom-out sensation and a quiet typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and comfortable typing experience with a subtly high-pitched sound, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. The Kiki Red offers a light bottom out force of 50 grams and features all-POM housings for a unique sound signature. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a sharp tactile bump and a plush bottom-out sensation, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch may be more suited to your preferences. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, the U4 provides a satisfying tactile feedback that is accompanied by a whisper quiet sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on whether you prioritize smoothness and subtlety or sharp tactile feedback in your typing experience.
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