SP-Star Meteor White vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Meteor White, a linear switch, and the Gazzew U4Tx, a tactile switch. The Meteor White is known for its gentle and subdued nature, offering a soft type feel and pitter-patter sound profile. On the other hand, the U4Tx switches are designed to provide the best of both worlds with a cleaner and refined sound profile. They offer a deep and resonant "thock" when bottoming out, paired with a whisper-quiet stealth when topping out. Each press delivers a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, ensuring a luxurious typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor White and the Gazzew U4Tx switches exhibit several similarities. Both switches utilize soft plastics in their respective housing materials, which contribute to creating a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The nylon top housing of the Meteor White absorbs more sound due to its relatively softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often called "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile, thanks to its softness. This similarity in sound characteristics suggests that both switches should provide a satisfying typing experience in terms of sound quality.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the two switches differ in material. While the Meteor White utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, the U4Tx employs its proprietary Gazzew blend. These distinct bottom housings influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. Due to its softer nature, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the tactile feedback experienced when pressing down on a switch. This means that the U4Tx's bottom housing may potentially offer a different tactile experience compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Meteor White.
On the other hand, the top housing of a switch affects the sound produced when a key is released. Both the nylon top housing of the Meteor White and the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4Tx create a fuller and deeper sound upon key release. Therefore, regardless of which switch is chosen, the sound profile when a key is released should be similar due to the similar characteristics of their top housings.
In summary, while the SP-Star Meteor White and the Gazzew U4Tx share similarities in their top housing materials, resulting in similar sound characteristics when keys are released, their bottom housing materials differ. The nylon bottom housing of the Meteor White and the proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4Tx may provide distinct tactile feedback during keypresses. Therefore, depending on individual preferences for tactile feel, users may prefer one switch over the other based on their bottom housing material. However, in terms of the sound profile during typing, both switches should yield similar results due to their soft top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force for both switches is currently unavailable, making it difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, in terms of the bottom out force, the Meteor White weighs in at 57 grams, which falls in the medium-light category. In contrast, the U4Tx has a bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range.
For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Meteor White may be the preferable option. Its lower bottom out force allows for easier keystrokes and the potential for increased typing endurance. This makes it ideal for those who frequently use their keyboards for extended periods, whether it be for work or gaming.
On the other hand, the U4Tx provides a more substantial and stronger push feel, catering to those who prefer a heavier typing experience. The higher bottom out force of 65 grams provides a more tactile feedback and a sense of added resistance with each keypress. This can be appealing for individuals who desire a more pronounced and deliberate typing experience.
It is important to note that although the actuation force of both switches is currently unknown, it may play a significant role in determining the overall typing experience. Depending on the similarities or differences in actuation force, users may still achieve similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke, despite the contrasting bottom out forces.
Ultimately, the decision between the Meteor White linear switch and the U4Tx tactile switch will depend on individual preferences. If a lighter typing experience is desired, the Meteor White may be the preferred choice. However, for those seeking a more substantial and heavy typing experience, the U4Tx offers a higher bottom out force.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch have different travel distances. The Meteor White has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the U4Tx has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Meteor White being slightly longer.
For those who prefer a more responsive typing experience, the U4Tx may be the better option with its shorter travel distance. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. However, it is worth noting that shorter travel distances can feel abrupt to some individuals.
On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper keystroke and a more substantial feeling when typing, the longer travel distance of the Meteor White may be more suitable. Some users find that a longer travel distance provides a more satisfying typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch will depend on individual preferences. Whether you prioritize a shorter, more responsive keystroke or a deeper, more substantial feel, both switches can provide satisfactory typing experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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
The SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is best known for its soft and gentle qualities both in sound and feel. When it comes to sound, the Meteor White has a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This means it produces a moderate sound when pressed, suitable for most intents and purposes. Additionally, the switch has a thocky sound when pressed and released, providing a deep and satisfying tone.
On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a different experience in terms of sound. These switches are designed to have a cleaner and refined sound profile. When typing on the U4Tx, you can expect a deep and resonant "thock" sound when bottoming out, paired with a whisper-quiet stealth sound when topping out. This combination creates an acoustically pleasing experience with every press. The U4Tx switches also provide a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, adding to the luxurious and tactile typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Meteor White switch offers a mild and approachable typing experience. It falls into the middle-ground zone, providing a gentle typing experience suitable for most users. The switch also has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This can be attributed to the materials used or factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx switch offers a sharp tactile feel. These switches are known for their high feedback intensity, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. This adds to the typing experience, providing precise feedback and a tactile sensation.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Meteor White provides a soft and subdued sound with a gentle typing experience, while the U4Tx offers a refined, deep "thock" sound and a sharp tactile feel. Depending on personal preference, both switches can provide a satisfactory typing experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a gentle and soft typing experience with a subtle sound profile, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is the way to go. With a medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams, this switch is easy to push and provides a pitter-patter sound that is neither too loud nor too quiet. Its neutral sound profile makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether for home or work purposes. Additionally, the Meteor White switch offers a mild and polished feel, ensuring a comfortable and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile typing experience with a refined and bassy sound profile, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is the better choice. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, this switch provides a sharp and satisfying tactile bump with each keypress. The U4Tx switch offers a unique combination of the deep "thock" sound when bottoming out and the whisper-quiet stealth when topping out. This switch produces a bassy and muted sound, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize a gentle and soft typing experience with a neutral and thocky sound, the Meteor White switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a sharper and more tactile typing experience with a refined and bassy sound, the U4Tx switch will provide a luxurious typing experience. Consider your desired typing experience and sound profile to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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