Dareu Master vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Dareu Master and the Gazzew U4Tx. The Dareu Master features The Master switch, a linear switch made of all-POM material, offering a medium weight and classic clacky sound signature. It is known for its exceptional smoothness during operation and falls under the categories of 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx is a tactile switch that combines the best of both worlds. It provides a refined sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sound. This switch offers a sharp, satisfying tactile bump for a luxurious typing experience and is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Muted', and 'Sharp'. Deciding between these switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits; 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and the Gazzew U4Tx both boast unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Master features POM top and bottom housings, which create a deep and pleasing sound that is relatively muted. On the other hand, the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend for both its top and bottom housings, known as "boba plastic," to deliver a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While both switches offer a deep sound profile, the Master's POM housing may provide a slightly more muted sound compared to the U4Tx's Gazzew blend housing.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of the Dareu Master and the Gazzew U4Tx ultimately play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience. The POM top and bottom housings of the Master not only create a unique sound profile, but also impact the feel of bottoming out the keys. In contrast, the Gazzew blend top and bottom housings of the U4Tx offer a softer feel when typing, thanks to the rich sound profile it produces. Both switches strike a balance between sound and feel, with the properties of each housing material contributing to the overall typing experience.
While the housing materials of the Dareu Master and the Gazzew U4Tx differ in composition, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users. The POM housings of the Master may offer a slightly more muted sound profile compared to the Gazzew blend housings of the U4Tx, but both switches deliver deep and pleasing sounds. Additionally, the impact of the bottom and top housings on the overall typing experience is evident, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, whose actuation force is unknown. However, the U4Tx has a heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams, whereas the bottom out force for the Master is unknown. When considering weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Master for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the heavier bottom out force of the U4Tx for a more substantial typing experience. In terms of actuation force, the Master provides a lighter touch, while the U4Tx offers a medium force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Dareu Master linear switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize quick response times. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the longer travel distance of the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 Dareu Master linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a bassy and muted sound experience, with a deep and rich tone during key presses that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Depending on your preference for sound, the Master switch may appeal to those who enjoy a classic clacky sound, while the U4Tx switch may be more suitable for those looking for a quieter and more refined typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Master switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. If you prefer a switch with a high feedback intensity and distinct tactile bump, the U4Tx switch may be the better choice for you.
Overall, the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offer unique sound and feel experiences that cater to different preferences. While the Master switch provides a clacky sound and a mild, polished feel, the U4Tx switch offers a bassy, muted sound and a sharp tactile feedback. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or both in your typing experience, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable keyboarding experience. Additionally, keep in mind that the sound and feel of these switches can also be influenced by factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps. Ultimately, it's important to try out different switches to determine what works best for you.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize a medium-weight linear switch with a clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness, the Dareu Master may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a tactile switch with a refined sound profile that offers a deep "thock" when bottoming out and a quiet topping out experience, the Gazzew U4Tx could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a classic clacky feel or a sharp and satisfying tactile bump. Choose wisely based on your personal typing preferences.
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