Cherry MX Black vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Cherry MX Black and Gazzew U4T are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct features and experiences. The MX Black, known for its smoothness and deep sound profile, is a linear switch that showcases Cherry's superior craftsmanship with its new Hyperglide tooling. It provides a textured feel during typing and requires a certain level of force due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T is a tactile switch that combines thockiness and sharp tactility. It delivers a satisfying 'thock' sound profile with its bassy tone and offers assertive tactile feedback with each keystroke. While the MX Black focuses on smoothness and a classic typing experience, the U4T emphasizes auditory and tactile satisfaction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Black and the Gazzew U4T differ in terms of their housing materials. The MX Black utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, while the U4T incorporates a proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing. Both switches aim to enhance the sound profile through the use of softer plastics.
The MX Black's nylon top and bottom housing contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience. This creates a unique typing sensation and adds a touch of elegance to each keystroke. Similarly, the U4T's Gazzew blend top and bottom housing, often referred to as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. This proprietary plastic blend enhances the overall sound experience while providing a satisfying keypress feel.
While both switches aim to achieve similar results with their soft housing materials, the distinction lies in their proprietary blends. The Gazzew U4T utilizes its own unique plastic blend that is sometimes referred to as "boba plastic." This blend delivers a specific sound profile that is rich and deep, setting it apart from the classic nylon housing of the Cherry MX Black. The proprietary blend adds a distinctive touch to the typing experience and is favored by enthusiasts seeking a unique auditory and tactile sensation.
When it comes to the impact on sound during keystrokes, the housing materials play a significant role. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, both the top and bottom housing materials of each switch contribute to the overall sound profile and typing experience, enhancing the user's engagement and enjoyment. Whether you opt for the Cherry MX Black's nylon housing or the Gazzew U4T's proprietary plastic blend, you can expect similar results in terms of achieving a deep and satisfying sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is clear that they differ in weight. The MX Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the U4T, which does not provide information about its actuation force. Similarly, the MX Black has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, while the U4T has a lighter bottom out force of 62 grams, making it the more lightweight option.
Considering weight is important for various reasons. Those who prefer a lighter switch may find it ideal for extended typing sessions or lengthy gaming sessions since it allows for less strain over time. This feature is especially desirable for keyboards used in work environments or during prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, some individuals may prefer a more substantial typing experience and enjoy a stronger push feel. For them, selecting a switch with a heavier force would be more suitable.
While the actuation force of the U4T is unknown, it is worth noting that the MX Black switch provides a significantly heavier actuation force of 60 grams. However, if the actuation forces of the U4T were similar or comparable to the MX Black, users can expect similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. The bottom out force of the MX Black is also heavier at 80 grams, whereas the U4T offers a lighter force of 62 grams.
In summary, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is characterized by a heavier actuation force and bottom out force, making it the heavier option. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch provides a lighter bottom out force, although information about its actuation force remains unknown. Depending on individual preferences, users can select the switch that aligns with their desired typing experience, whether it be lighter or heavier.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled for both switches. Despite being different in terms of their switch type (linear vs tactile), the travel distance remains consistent. Therefore, whether you choose the Cherry MX Black or the Gazzew U4T, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00, whereas the Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50.
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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Black switches have a low-pitched sound profile. These switches produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. When typing on MX Black switches, you can expect a deep and familiar sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switches have a bassy 'thock' sound profile. These switches offer a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, U4T switches are described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. Please note that the sound of both switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, MX Black switches are known for their textured experience. These switches have noticeable friction when pressed, providing a textured or scratchy feeling. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother typing experience. Additionally, MX Black switches are described as stiff, meaning they require a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom out compared to other switches. Typing on MX Black switches will require more force to press the keys.
In contrast, Gazzew U4T switches have a sharp tactile feel. These switches offer a high feedback intensity with a strong and crisp tactile bump. With each keypress, the tactile feedback can be distinctly felt, providing a satisfying and responsive typing experience.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Black linear switches and the Gazzew U4T tactile switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. MX Black switches provide a low-pitched sound profile with a textured and stiff feel, while U4T switches offer a bassy 'thock' sound profile with a sharp tactile feel. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can provide auditory and tactile satisfaction. It is important to consider factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps, as they can also influence the overall experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a heavy switch with a classic smoothness and deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black would be a great choice for you. With its 80-gram bottom out force and textured feel, typing on the MX Black switches can provide a satisfying tactile experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter switch with a bassy thock sound profile and a sharp tactile feedback, the Gazzew U4T switches would be a suitable option. With a bottom out force of 62 grams and a sharp tactile bump, the U4Ts offer a harmonious fusion of thockiness and tactility. Overall, your choice between the MX Black and U4T switches depends on your preference for switch weight, sound profile, and tactile feedback.
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