Durock Light Tactile vs. Gazzew U4Tx

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer distinct experiences are the Durock Light Tactile and the Gazzew U4Tx. The Light Tactile switch from Durock stands out for its exceptionally gentle tactility, providing a refreshing alternative to the sharper tactile switches dominating the market. Typing on these switches delivers an angelic tactility accompanied by a pleasantly jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches aim to combine the best of both worlds. With their ingenious design, they offer a cleaner and more refined sound profile. When typing, users can expect a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out, complemented by the whisper-quiet stealth of topping out. Each keypress provides a sharp, satisfying tactile bump, resulting in a luxurious typing experience that is both acoustically pleasing and tactile. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Durock Light Tactile Tactile

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Gazzew U4Tx differ in their composition, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Light Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of the polycarbonate plastic enhances the resonance and clarity of the switch. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate is beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting. In contrast, the U4Tx utilizes Gazzew's proprietary plastic blend, often referred to as "boba plastic," for its top housing. This unique blend creates a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. It offers a different auditory experience compared to the Light Tactile's polycarbonate, focusing on delivering a satisfying and enveloping sound.

Regarding the bottom housing, the Light Tactile employs a nylon material, known for its ability to generate a deep and fuller sound. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the U4Tx utilizes Gazzew's proprietary blend for the bottom housing as well, ensuring consistency and harmony between the top and bottom portions of the switch. The softness of the "boba plastic" in the bottom housing contributes to the overall rich and deep sound profile associated with the U4Tx. While both switches utilize different materials for their bottom housings, they share the intent to enhance the sound experience and create a more satisfying typing feel.

When pressing down on these switches, the qualities of the bottom housing become more noticeable. The impact and sound of the bottom-out are influenced primarily by the bottom housing. The Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the keystroke, while the U4Tx's "boba plastic" blend provides a rich and deep tone. Conversely, the impact of releasing a key and the resulting sound are influenced by the top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Light Tactile produces a distinct high-pitched and sharp sound upon key release, while the U4Tx's proprietary blend creates a softer and more enveloping sound. Despite their differences, both switches aim to create an immersive typing experience through the combination of their unique housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switches, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The Light Tactile switch has an actuation force of 52 grams, providing a medium-heavy push feel, while the U4Tx's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to determine. Both switches have a bottom out force of 65 grams, which again falls into the medium-heavy category.

In terms of weight, the Light Tactile switch is slightly lighter overall, which can be appealing for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. This lighter weight allows for longer typing periods without causing fatigue, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the U4Tx switch's actuation force is unknown, but if it is similar to the Light Tactile switch, users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of actuation force.

For individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel and enjoy a stronger push, the heavier forces of both switches would be suitable. The actuation and bottom out forces of the Light Tactile switch are slightly higher than those of the U4Tx, making it a slightly heavier option.

In summary, the Durock Light Tactile and Gazzew U4Tx tactile switches have some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. While the actuation force of the U4Tx is unknown, the Light Tactile switch provides a medium-heavy push feel. However, both switches share a similar bottom out force, indicating a comparable typing experience in that regard. The Light Tactile switch is slightly lighter overall, while the U4Tx's actuation force is unknown. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for either a lighter or heavier typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Durock Light Tactile and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switches, it is clear that the Light Tactile has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the U4Tx has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. With 4.0 mm being the more traditional distance and 3.6 mm being more on the shallow end, it is evident that the Light Tactile offers a deeper and more pronounced key press experience compared to the U4Tx. However, it is important to note that in recent times, shorter travel distances have become popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing or gaming experience, opting for the U4Tx with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial keypress and a sense of depth, the Light Tactile with its longer travel distance would be the preferable option. Ultimately, finding the right travel distance is a matter of personal preference and the intended use of the switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile. This means that the sound is moderate, making it suitable for various environments and purposes. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switch offers a bassy and muted sound profile. The deep and rich sound produced during key presses resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones, while also minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

In terms of feel, the Light Tactile switch offers a mild typing experience. This switch is designed to be more gentle compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of the Light Tactile switch can be approachable to most users as it falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Light Tactile switch is described as polished, indicating that it has a smooth and refined finish. This leads to reduced friction and smooth key travel, resulting in a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx switch provides a sharp tactile feel. The strong and crisp tactile bump is prominent and distinct with each keypress.

Overall, the Durock Light Tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Light Tactile switch provides a gentle and angelic tactility accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature. It is known for its neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel. On the other hand, the U4Tx switch offers a satisfying tactile bump and a deep, resonant "thock" sound when bottoming out, coupled with whisper-quiet topping outs. It has a bassy sound profile and a sharp tactile feel. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, both switches can provide a luxurious typing experience. If a user prefers the qualities of the Light Tactile switch, they can expect a similar experience. Similarly, if a user prefers the qualities of the U4Tx switch, they can expect a comparable result.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Light Tactile and Gazzew U4Tx tactile switches, it ultimately boils down to your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a more gentle and approachable typing experience with a subtle but pleasing tactility, the Light Tactile may be the perfect choice for you. Its angelic tactility and jelly-like sound signature make for a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a refined sound profile characterized by a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sound, the U4Tx might be more to your liking. Its sharp tactile bump ensures a satisfying keystroke, accompanied by a bassy and muted sound profile. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities, so it's up to you to decide which factors are most important to your typing preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Durock Light Tactile Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more