Cherry MX Orange vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Orange and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference often dictates the best fit for your typing style. The Cherry MX Orange switch, known for its linear feel, offers smooth key presses with minimal resistance and no tactile bump, making it ideal for users who prefer a consistent and uninterrupted typing experience. This switch has garnered attention for its revived design and enhancements, delivering a satisfying performance without distractions. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T switch stands out as a tactile option, renowned for its unique combination of a bassy 'thock' sound and sharp tactile feedback. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a pronounced response with each keystroke, providing both auditory and tactile satisfaction that adds an engaging dimension to typing and gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the MX Orange and U4T switches hinges on whether you prioritize smoothness or tactile feedback in your typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Orange and the Gazzew U4T, one notable similarity arises in their choice of softer plastic formulations. The Cherry MX Orange features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is a classic material known for its sound-dampening properties. This quality contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, as nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Gazzew U4T employs a proprietary plastic blend, often referred to as "boba plastic," for both its top and bottom housings, which is designed to deliver a similar rich and deep sound profile due to its soft composition. Both switches thrive on this softer plastic approach, leading to less harsh auditory feedback and a more muted response when typing.
While both switches utilize softer materials, the differences in their housing compositions can lead to unique auditory experiences. The Cherry MX Orange, with its nylon housing, evokes a classic mechanical feel that many users appreciate for its dependable performance and tactile feedback. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T’s proprietary blend may introduce a slight variation in feel and sound signature, as the specific properties of boba plastic could potentially alter the impact of the keystrokes compared to traditional nylon. If users prefer a more muted experience, both options present a winning formula, albeit with slightly different tonal qualities and sensory feedback based on their unique materials.
Furthermore, the distinction in how the materials affect typing feedback cannot be understated. The MX Orange's nylon housings influence both the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a familiar tactile response for experienced typists. By contrast, the Gazzew U4T’s boba plastic housings still prioritize the aural experience but might deliver a slightly different sensation when pressed. Ultimately, while both switches cater to those seeking deeper sound profiles typical of softer plastics, the nuances in their housing materials provide a diverse range of user experiences, making it a matter of personal preference and ergonomic comfort. Thus, users who cherish similar auditory outcomes will find both models appealing, although their tactile experiences may slightly vary based on the material differences.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which influence the overall typing experience. The Cherry MX Orange features an actuation force of 55 grams, making it relatively lighter and suitable for long typing sessions or extended gaming without causing excessive fatigue. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T has a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a medium-heavy resistance at the end of a keystroke, although its actuation force remains unspecified. Without knowledge of the U4T's actuation force, it's challenging to draw a direct comparison in that regard; however, the heavier bottom out force suggests a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger tactile feedback. Ultimately, while the Cherry MX Orange is the lighter option with a known actuation force, the Gazzew U4T's heavier bottom out may cater to users seeking more resistance in their typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch share the same travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable experience in terms of key press depth when using either switch. Since both switches have identical travel distances, you can achieve similar results in typing feel and responsiveness regardless of the switch you choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
The Gazzew U4T 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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Orange is known for its refined auditory feedback, embodying a pleasant and balanced acoustic profile typical of linear switches. The companion switches, particularly influenced by the enhancements from the MX2A generation, offer a satisfying sound when pressed, though specific descriptors are not provided. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T switches deliver a notably bassy and thocky sound experience. Their deep, rich auditory feedback creates a comforting resonance that resembles a soft "thud" with each keystroke, making them more expressive in terms of sound compared to the MX Orange. The sound produced by both switches can also be significantly influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, suggesting that while they each bring their unique qualities, the ultimate auditory experience is shaped by other components of the keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Orange lacks specific descriptors, leaving its tactile sensations somewhat more ambiguous. Meanwhile, the Gazzew U4T provides a distinct tactile feedback experience, characterized by a sharp and pronounced bump that offers strong feedback with every keypress. This clear tactile response ensures that users can easily register each keystroke, enhancing typing accuracy and enjoyment. Despite the absence of detailed feel attributes for the MX Orange, users might still find an enjoyable linear experience, though the tactile clarity of the U4T distinctly sets it apart.
In conclusion, both the Cherry MX Orange and Gazzew U4T switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the MX Orange provides a refined and balanced sound profile with a general linear feel, the U4T impresses with its thocky sound and sharp tactile feedback, offering a more dynamic and engaging typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for auditory and tactile sensations, and each switch can deliver a satisfying experience when paired with the right keyboard components.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prefer a smoother, uninterrupted keystroke experience without tactile bumps and you enjoy a quieter typing environment, the Cherry MX Orange could be the ideal choice. It's particularly well-suited for gamers who need rapid key presses and for typists who seek a consistent feel without the distraction of tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you desire a more engaging typing experience with pronounced tactile feedback and a satisfying sound profile, the Gazzew U4T is likely the better option. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force and deep, thocky sound can enhance your typing rhythm while providing the noticeable tactile response that many find gratifying. Ultimately, consider your typing style, sound preferences, and whether you prioritize a linear feel or tactile feedback when making your decision.
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