Gateron Mars vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two impressive contenders stand out: the Gateron Mars and the Gazzew U4. The Gateron Mars is a linear switch celebrated for its innovative design, featuring a POK stem and a hybrid housing crafted from Nylon and POM, which offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience ideal for fast typists and gamers seeking speed and responsiveness. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 is a tactile switch that delivers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, coupled with a soft, plush bottom-out sensation, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback while typing, especially in quieter environments due to its muted, low-pitched sound profile. While the Mars excels in providing a fluid typing experience, the U4 caters to users who appreciate tactile feedback without excessive noise. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Mars Linear

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Mars and the Gazzew U4 utilize different materials for their switch housings that have a significant impact on their auditory and tactile characteristics. The top housing of the Mars is made from nylon, a well-regarded material known for its softer texture that dampens sound. This quality leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, creating a more muted auditory experience. In contrast, the U4 employs its proprietary Gazzew blend, often referred to as "boba plastic." Although not identical to nylon, this blend also exhibits a soft nature, contributing similarly to a rich and deep sound profile, emphasizing warmth and softness that characterizes both switches.

When examining the bottom housings, the Mars employs POM (polyoxymethylene), while the Gazzew U4 again utilizes its proprietary blend. POM is recognized for creating a unique and muted sound profile that is deeper in tone compared to other materials. The Gazzew U4’s boba plastic bottom housing mirrors this quality, delivering a similarly deep audio effect. The use of different materials for the bottom housings means that while the Mars and U4 might deliver rich sound profiles, the nuances in sound characteristics will vary with respect to the specific density and elasticity of each material. This suggests that when bottoming out, users might experience differences in auditory feedback, though each still favors that muted, deeper sound.

In summary, while both the Gateron Mars and Gazzew U4 are crafted with attention to sound quality, their housing materials design provide distinct yet complementary experiences. The Gateron Mars, with its nylon top and POM bottom, presents a well-rounded auditory profile, while the Gazzew U4 achieves a similar richness through its proprietary blend in both top and bottom housings. Users who prioritize sound depth may find satisfaction in either switch, but they might notice subtle variations in the ways these materials interact during different stages of key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two may hinge on individual preferences for tactile feel and specific sound characteristics during both bottoming out and release.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, we find some similarities and differences that can influence user preference. Both switches require an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equal in this regard, which means users can expect a similar trigger feel when typing or gaming. However, the Gazzew U4 switch distinguishes itself with a bottom out force of 62 grams, whereas the bottom out force for the Gateron Mars is unknown. This suggests that the U4 offers a heavier feel upon bottoming out, which could be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, the Gateron Mars, with its lack of documented bottom out force, may feel lighter overall due to the absence of a specified heavier resistance when the switch is fully pressed down. Therefore, users looking for a lighter switch might lean towards the Mars, while those who appreciate a more defined, heavier feedback when bottoming out should consider the U4.

Travel distance

The Gateron Mars linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch both have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that when pressed down on a key, both switches travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity means that users will experience comparable keypress feedback regarding the depth of actuation when using either switch. Therefore, if you're looking for a consistent feel in terms of travel distance across your keyboard, both the Mars and U4 can provide that experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Gateron Mars switch is somewhat of an enigma, as it lacks specific descriptions, making it difficult to judge its auditory characteristics fully. However, Gazzew's U4 tactile switch is known for its muted and low-pitched sound, producing a quieter typing experience that minimizes the typical clack of mechanical keyboards. This combination makes the U4 ideal for quieter environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. The lack of information on the Mars switch suggests that its sound may vary considerably based on setup, which could lead to a more traditional and potentially clackier typing sound, contrasting the stealth of the U4.

When considering the feel, the Gateron Mars switch does not have a detailed description, leaving its tactile feedback and bottom-out sensation somewhat uncertain. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 tactiles are noted for their sharp tactile bump, providing a strong, clear feedback with each keystroke, coupled with an unexpectedly plush bottom-out sensation. This tactile response allows for a distinctly engaging typing experience where users can easily recognize when a key has been actuated. Consequently, while the Mars switch might deliver a satisfactory feel, it is difficult to ascertain its quality without further insight, whereas the U4 tangibly excels in tactile feedback.

In summary, the comparison between the Gateron Mars and Gazzew U4 switches highlights notable differences in sound and feel. While the Mars switch remains an enigma in terms of auditory qualities, the U4 offers a subdued and low-pitched sound, ideal for quieter environments. On the tactile front, the U4 shines with its sharp feedback and plush bottom-out sensation, leaving the Mars switch's tactile experience elusive. Thus, if you're drawn to a more tactile and a quieter typing experience, the U4 would ultimately be more favorable, while the Mars may cater to users willing to explore more uncharted tactile territory without definitive descriptions.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch will ultimately depend on your typing preferences and the environment in which you use your keyboard. If you prefer a smooth and linear experience without the distraction of a tactile bump, the Gateron Mars is an excellent option, thanks to its unique design and whisper-quiet operation that minimizes sound. This makes it especially suitable for a workplace or shared environment where noise levels are a concern. On the other hand, if you enjoy the feedback of tactile switches and appreciate a strong tactile bump coupled with a plush bottom-out feel, the Gazzew U4 is your best bet. Its medium actuation force and muted sound profile make it ideal for both typing enthusiasts and gamers who thrive on feedback without overwhelming noise. In summary, choose the Mars for a quieter, linear typing experience, and opt for the U4 if you seek that satisfying tactile sensation during every keypress.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Mars Linear

$6.10

$5.50 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more