Cherry MX Black vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves deliberating between the Cherry MX Black and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB. The Cherry MX Black is a renowned linear switch known for its smooth, deep keystrokes, thanks to Cherry's advanced Hyperglide tooling that enhances its classic texture. Its low-pitched sound and stiff actuation make it ideal for users who appreciate a quiet, yet deliberate typing experience, perfect for both gaming and typing. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB offers a tactile experience that unites the satisfying "thock" of a heavier bottom-out sound with a subtle quietness upon release, creating a luxurious typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump. This switch caters to those who enjoy feedback with each keystroke and prefer a refined acoustic profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference for sound and feel in a typing experience. 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

Cherry MX Black Linear

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$4.00 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The Cherry MX Black and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches both feature notable housing materials that contribute significantly to their respective sound profiles and overall performance. The MX Black employs classic nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which is recognized for its capacity to produce a deeper and fuller sound. The softness of nylon helps absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. This material not only affects the sound but also enhances the overall feel of the switch, making it appealing to those who prefer a more muted and subdued typing experience.

Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB utilizes a proprietary blend of plastic, often referred to as "boba plastic," for its housing components. Like nylon, this blend is designed to produce a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. However, the uniqueness of the Gazzew blend may introduce different acoustics compared to the classic nylon in the MX Black. While both switches aim for fuller sound profiles, the differences in material composition may offer varied tactile feedback and a subtly different auditory character, reflecting the innovative design philosophy behind Gazzew's switch technology.

Despite the variations in housing materials, the underlying principle governing their acoustic properties remains aligned. Both switches utilize softer plastics, which result in an overall absorption of sound and a more refined auditory experience. Consequently, the typing experience with either switch may be comparable in terms of sound dampening and feel, leading to similar results during use. The interplay between the top and bottom housings further influences the keystroke experience: the MX Black’s nylon delivers a cohesive sound signature, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB's proprietary material introduces its unique subtleties without compromising the goal of achieving a satisfying and rich typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, distinct differences can be observed. The Cherry MX Black switch features a relatively heavy actuation force of 60 grams, which some users may appreciate for the substantial feel it provides during typing. Its bottom out force is even heavier at 80 grams, making it a solid choice for those who prefer a stronger push. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch has a reported actuation force of None grams, indicating a lack of specific quantification for this metric, but it does have a bottom out force of 65 grams. This makes the U4Tx RGB switch moderately heavy in terms of bottoming out. Overall, the Cherry MX Black is the heavier switch in both actuation and bottom out forces, while the Gazzew U4Tx is comparatively lighter when it comes to actuation. For those who favor a lighter typing experience, the U4Tx RGB may be more suitable, while those who enjoy a stronger feel might gravitate towards the Cherry MX Black.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, it's clear there are noticeable differences. The Cherry MX Black features a travel distance of 4.0 mm, making it one of the traditional options that provides a more pronounced key feel, ideal for users who enjoy a deeper and more hearty experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to those who prefer quicker responsiveness, particularly favored by gamers seeking faster actuation. Thus, if you opt for the MX Black, you'll experience a longer travel, while the U4Tx offers a more responsive yet slightly less immersive feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize depth or responsiveness in your typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profile of the Cherry MX Black and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches, the MX Black is characterized by a low-pitched, deep tone, which offers a bass-heavy and mellow auditory experience while typing. This results in a solid thud when the keys are bottomed out. On the other hand, the U4Tx RGB switch is known for its refined sound profile that combines the deep “thock” when bottoming out with a quieter, stealthy noise at the top of the keypress. Therefore, while both switches produce a pleasing sound, the MX Black delivers a more consistent low pitch, whereas the U4Tx RGB provides a more nuanced auditory experience with its unique blend of sound qualities.

In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Black switch is noted for its textured surface, which introduces a noticeable friction when typing—a quality that some users appreciate, as it adds tactile feedback. Additionally, the MX Black is classified as a stiff switch, requiring more force to actuate and bottom out compared to many other switches, appealing to those who prefer a robust typing resistance. The U4Tx RGB switch, however, is not described in terms of feel in the available information, leaving its tactile characteristics unknown. Hence, while Cherry MX Blacks provide a textured and firm typing experience, details about the tactile nature of the U4Tx RGB remain undisclosed.

In conclusion, both the Cherry MX Black and Gazzew U4Tx RGB presents distinct auditory qualities, with the MX Black offering a consistent low-pitched tone and the U4Tx RGB incorporating a unique combination of deep sound elements. The feel of the MX Black is distinguished by its textured surface and increased actuation force, while the tactile sensations of the U4Tx RGB are currently unknown. For enthusiasts choosing between these two switches, the choice may come down to a preference for the deeper sound and the textured feel of the MX Black or the refined acoustic profile of the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, although it is imperative to keep in mind that individual preferences for switches can be highly subjective.

Conclusion

In closing, your choice between the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately boils down to your personal typing preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a heavier key press with a robust and textured feel, the MX Black, with its 80g bottom-out force, is an excellent option. This switch is particularly suited for those who prefer a more deliberate typing experience and may benefit from the switch's low-pitched, bass-heavy sound profile, making it great for gaming or work environments where focus is key. On the other hand, if you enjoy a moderate typing pressure combined with a sharp tactile bump, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, with its 65g bottom-out force, may be more your style. Its refined “thock” sound and luxurious typing experience cater to users looking for both comfort and subtle feedback when typing. Thus, if you prioritize a combination of sound profile and tactile response, the U4Tx RGB can enhance your overall typing enjoyment. Ultimately, consider what aspects of typing and gaming matter most to you, and choose accordingly.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Black Linear

$4.00 per 10

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Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more