Cherry MX Black vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Black and the Gazzew U4Tx. The Cherry MX Black, a linear switch, is known for its smoothness and iconic sound profile, offering a textured typing experience with a low-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx, a tactile switch, combines the best of both worlds with a cleaner, refined sound profile. It provides a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a quiet topping out sound. Each keystroke on the U4Tx offers a sharp, satisfying tactile bump for a luxurious typing experience. Both switches have their unique characteristics and appeal, but let's delve deeper into their specific features and qualities to help you make the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the Gazzew U4Tx switches exhibit some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize a type of softer plastic in their housing materials, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. The MX Black's top and bottom housings are made of nylon, which absorbs sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. In comparison, the U4Tx employs a proprietary Gazzew blend plastic for both its top and bottom housings, delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness.
While the MX Black and U4Tx share the characteristic of using softer plastic, their specific housing materials do differ. The MX Black features nylon top and bottom housings, while the U4Tx employs its unique Gazzew blend for both its top and bottom housings. This difference in housing materials may lead to slight variations in the sound and feel of these switches. However, as both types of plastic are relatively softer, users can still expect a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches.
It is worth noting that the impact of the housing materials differs depending on whether it is the top or bottom housing of the switch. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become prominent due to their influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has more impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the specific housing materials may vary between the Cherry MX Black and the Gazzew U4Tx, the overall sound and feel could be similar due to the softer nature of their respective plastics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, some distinct differences can be observed. The MX Black has an actuation force of 60 grams, indicating that a relatively heavy force is needed to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the U4Tx is unknown, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. However, in terms of bottom out force, the MX Black requires 80 grams of force, making it even heavier than its actuation force. On the other hand, the U4Tx has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is noticeably lighter than the MX Black.
Considering the weight of switches, individuals have different preferences based on their specific needs. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for switches with lower actuation and bottom out forces. This allows for extended typing sessions and proves advantageous for individuals who bring their keyboard to work or engage in long gaming sessions. Conversely, some users prefer a stronger push feel, seeking a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, heavier forces are desirable.
In terms of weight, the MX Black is on the heavier side with its higher actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, the U4Tx falls into the medium-heavy category with its unknown actuation force and slightly lighter bottom out force. While the actuation force of the U4Tx is unavailable, it is evident that its bottom out force is lighter than both the actuation and bottom out force of the MX Black. Thus, individuals aiming for a lighter switch with a relatively softer typing experience may find the U4Tx more suitable.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is clear that the MX Black has a longer travel distance at 4.0 mm, while the U4Tx has a slightly shorter travel distance at 3.6 mm. The MX Black falls into the category of a more traditional travel distance, offering a deeper key press sensation. On the other hand, the U4Tx provides a shallower travel distance, which is becoming increasingly popular among gamers seeking faster response times. This shorter travel distance allows for a quicker key press and may be preferred by those who prioritize responsiveness. However, it is important to note that a shorter travel distance can sometimes feel abrupt to certain individuals, so if a more substantial key press is desired, opting for the switch with the longer travel distance would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 U4Tx 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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Black switch has a low-pitched profile. This means that it produces a deeper and more mellow tone during key presses, with a bass-heavy sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switch offers a bassy sound profile that is deeper and richer compared to the MX Black. It has a lower frequency range that resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the U4Tx has a muted characteristic, meaning it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular switch. It minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Black switch has a textured experience. This means that there is noticeable friction when pressing the keys. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. Additionally, the MX Black is described as stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom out compared to other switches. This means you'll need to apply more force when pressing the keys. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switch provides a sharp tactile feel. It has a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each and every keypress. This high feedback intensity ensures a satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Black and Gazzew U4Tx switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The MX Black has a low-pitched sound profile with a classic textured feel, while the U4Tx provides a bassy, refined sound profile with a sharp tactile feel. Both switches deliver a deep and satisfying typing experience, but the MX Black leans more towards a mellow and textured experience, while the U4Tx offers a cleaner and bass-heavy sound with a sharper tactile bump. It's important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as keyboard setup when choosing between these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a heavy switch with a classic textured smoothness and a deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is the way to go. With its 80-gram bottom out force, it offers a satisfyingly tactile experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch that combines a refined sound profile and a luxurious typing experience, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is the choice for you. With its 65-gram bottom out force, it provides a sharp tactile bump and a deep, resonant "thock" sound when bottoming out, while maintaining a whisper-quiet topping out sound. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your preference for sound and feel. Considering the MX Black's low-pitched sound and textured, stiff feel, and the U4Tx's bassy, muted sound and sharp tactile feel, you can choose the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience. In the end, both switches offer their unique qualities to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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