Cherry MX Brown vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the Cherry MX Brown and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB stand out as compelling options for tactile switch enthusiasts, while each brings its unique character to the table. The Cherry MX Brown is celebrated for its subtlety, providing users with a relatively light typing experience and gentle tactility, complemented by muted audio feedback that makes it ideal for quiet office environments or late-night gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB takes a more pronounced approach with its deep, resonant "thock" sound when bottoming out, combined with a sharp tactile bump that offers a luxurious touch. This switch not only excels in sound profile but also enhances the aesthetic of your keyboard with its RGB compatibility. While the MX Brown might appeal to those prioritizing a more subdued experience, the U4Tx may attract users looking for both exceptional typing feel and auditory satisfaction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$4.00 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Brown switches and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches, it is clear that both utilize softer plastics to enhance their acoustic qualities. The Cherry MX Brown's nylon top housing plays a significant role in producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's inherent softness which helps to absorb sound waves more effectively. This absorption results in a more rounded auditory experience, especially when the keys are released. Similarly, the U4Tx RGB uses a proprietary plastic blend dubbed "boba plastic" for its top housing, which is also designed to deliver a rich and deep sound profile. This indicates that both switches are developed with a focus on providing a satisfying typing experience, primarily through their top housing materials.

The bottom housings of the two switches are equally intriguing as they each rely on softer materials to further enhance acoustic performance. The nylon bottom housing of the Cherry MX Brown contributes to a duller and rounder sound, which, like the top housing, enhances the overall typing experience by modifying the bottom-out sound. Conversely, the U4Tx RGB's bottom housing also employs the same proprietary Gazzew blend, which is engineered for an appealing sound profile. This consistency in materials suggests that both switches will maintain a lower, richer sound regardless of which switch you choose, allowing users to enjoy similar audible feedback when bottoming out on either mechanism.

While the specific materials differ—nylon for the Cherry MX Brown and the proprietary Gazzew blend for the U4Tx RGB—the end result in terms of sound and typing feel is relatively comparable. Each switch harnesses the unique properties of its housing to shape both the acoustic tones and tactile feedback experienced by the user. Thus, while one is constructed from a traditional switch housing material and the other from a modern blend, the syntactic results converge around a shared experience: a satisfying typing experience marked by rich sounds and responsive feedback. Whether you opt for the MX Brown or the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, you can expect a depth in auditory feedback that enhances your overall typing enjoyment.

Weight

When comparing the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Cherry MX Brown has a measured actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light option, ideal for long typing sessions or extended gaming due to its relatively lighter feel. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch does not have a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This means the U4Tx will require a more substantial push to fully engage, appealing to users who prefer a firmer tactile experience. Therefore, while the MX Brown offers a gentler touch for prolonged use, the U4Tx caters to those who appreciate a more robust feedback during typing. In summary, the Cherry MX Brown is the lighter switch, whereas the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is the heavier of the two.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, there is a notable difference: the MX Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the U4Tx RGB measures at 3.6 mm. This means that the Cherry MX Brown offers a longer travel distance, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback that some users prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Gazzew U4Tx RGB can be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker response times and more rapid keystrokes. Consequently, if you value depth and a robust feeling when typing, the MX Brown would be the better choice. Conversely, if you're after speed and a more immediate actuation, the U4Tx RGB may be more suitable. Thus, your preference between the two will largely depend on whether you prioritize a more substantial keystroke or a brisker response.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Brown switches are characterized by a bassy and low-pitched acoustic profile. This results in a deeper, richer tone during key presses that many find satisfying and comforting. The low-frequency sound gives an audible but not overwhelming feedback, perfect for a quiet office environment or home setting. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches produce a unique sound profile that features a deep "thock" when bottoming out, blended with the quieter "topping out," which contributes to a refined and luxurious audio experience. However, since no specific descriptive attributes were provided for the U4Tx, it's important to note that sound quality can vary greatly depending on the keyboard design and keycap choice.

In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Brown switches offer a textured experience, allowing users to perceive a gentle friction with each keystroke, which some may find enhances their typing precision. This tactile feedback combines with a relatively light actuation force to create a typing experience that is both engaging and comfortable. Meanwhile, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches come with a sharp tactile bump that is intended to deliver an exceptional typing experience, although specifics on their texture or smoothness were not provided. Ultimately, both switches are designed to prioritize tactile feedback, ensuring a responsive feel that should satisfy typists.

Overall, while the Cherry MX Brown and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches differ in their sound profiles—one leaning towards a subtle bassy tone and the other toward a luxurious thock—both offer tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience. The Cherry MX Browns feature a textured feel, while the U4Tx provides a pronounced tactile bump. Depending on personal preferences regarding sound and tactile nuances, both switches can lead to a satisfying typing experience, drawing typists in with their unique yet complementary qualities.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and overall experience. If you enjoy a subtle typing experience that combines gentle tactility with a medium-light force of 55 grams, the Cherry MX Brown is an excellent choice. It provides a rich, bassy sound that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback without overwhelming noise, making it ideal for office environments or shared spaces where quieter operation is preferred. On the other hand, if you prioritize a more luxurious typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump and don’t mind the extra 10 grams of force at 65 grams, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB will likely suit you better. With its refined sound profile, featuring a deep “thock” upon bottoming out, it presents a satisfying auditory experience while offering a stealthy top-out noise—perfect for those who love a richer feedback during their typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal typing style, if you prefer a more subtle or a more pronounced tactile and audible experience.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

$4.00 per 10

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Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more