Bsun Kiki Red vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Bsun Kiki Red and the Gazzew U4T are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Kiki Red is a linear switch known for its high-pitched, clacky nuance and smooth actuation due to its all-POM housings and Ly stems. On the other hand, the U4T is a tactile switch that combines thockiness with sharp tactility, providing a satisfying auditory and tactile feedback with every keystroke. While the Kiki Red is preferred for its subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance, the U4T stands out for its bassy thock sound profile and assertive tactile feedback. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Kiki Red and the Gazzew U4T feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Kiki Red utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sound that is deep and muted. On the other hand, the U4T incorporates Gazzew's proprietary blend for both its top and bottom housing, producing a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Despite having different materials, both switches offer a similar deep sound profile that is pleasing to the ear.
In terms of construction, the Kiki Red and the U4T differ in their housing materials while offering similar sound profiles. The Kiki Red's POM top and bottom housing create a deep and muted sound, while the U4T's Gazzew blend top and bottom housing deliver a rich and soft sound profile. While the bottom housing of each switch will primarily affect the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing will impact the sound when a key is released. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Gazzew U4T play a crucial role in shaping their sound profiles. While the Kiki Red's POM housing provides a pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and more muted, the U4T's Gazzew blend housing offers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Despite their differences, both switches offer a similar level of satisfaction in terms of sound and typing experience, making them both viable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is evident that they both offer different typing experiences due to their varying force requirements. The Kiki Red has a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing. In contrast, the U4T has an unknown actuation force and a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the U4T, while the Kiki Red is better suited for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, we can see that the Kiki Red has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm while the U4T has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Kiki Red will have a slightly quicker response time compared to the U4T due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the Kiki Red for its faster response time. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Kiki Red to be too abrupt and may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the U4T for a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
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 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 it comes to sound, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is best described as having a clacky nuance, offering a sharp and snappy sound with a comfortably high pitch. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch provides a bassy 'thock' sound profile, delivering a deep and rich auditory experience with each keystroke. Both switches offer unique and satisfying sound profiles, catering to different preferences in sound feedback.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Kiki Red switch is known for its smooth and buttery typing experience, often described as creamy or frictionless. With a polished finish and silky sensation, these switches offer a refined tactile feedback that minimizes resistance during key presses. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch provides a sharp tactile bump, offering a strong and crisp feedback intensity with every keypress. Both switches excel in providing distinct tactile feedback, enhancing the overall typing experience for users who appreciate different levels of tactility.
In conclusion, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer unique qualities in sound and feel, catering to different preferences in auditory and tactile feedback. While the Kiki Red excels in providing a clacky nuance and a creamy typing experience, the U4T stands out with its bassy 'thock' sound profile and sharp tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel, as both options guarantee a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience for newcomers in the world of switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the BSUN Kiki Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, a high-pitched clacky sound profile, and medium-light weighting for a subtle tactile experience with smooth actuation, opt for the Kiki Red. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, a bassy thocky sound profile, and strong and crisp tactile feedback for a more assertive typing experience, then the U4T is the better choice for you. Ultimately, your preference for sound, feel, and typing style will determine which switch aligns best with your needs and preferences. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a keyboard switch.
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