Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Gazzew U4 present two fascinating options for tactile switch enthusiasts. The Cherry MX Purple RGB, known for its refined tactile experience, features a short, medium-strength bump that provides satisfying feedback without overwhelming the typist. Developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses, this switch strikes a balance between performance and responsiveness, making it a solid choice for gamers and typists alike. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 offers a distinct tactile profile with a sharp and exhilarating bump, complemented by a plush bottom-out sensation that enhances the overall typing experience. Additionally, its whisper-quiet sound profile makes it ideal for work environments where noise levels need to be managed. Both switches cater to different preferences—whether you prioritize precision with the Cherry MX Purple RGB or crave a soothing yet tactile experience with the U4. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Gazzew U4, both switches utilize materials that aim to enhance the auditory experience during typing. The Cherry MX Purple RGB features a nylon top housing, which is known for its classic properties. This softer plastic inherently absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that many typists appreciate. The materials used in the top housing greatly affect the sound produced when the key is released, contributing to an overall rounder auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 employs a proprietary blend of plastic commonly referred to as "boba plastic." This unique formulation is designed to deliver a similar richness and depth in sound, capitalizing on its own softness to absorb noise effectively. Despite the differences in material branding, both types produce remarkably similar sound profiles thanks to their soft nature.
The bottom housing of the switches further complements their auditory characteristics. Similar to the top housing, the Cherry MX Purple RGB features a nylon bottom housing that also plays a crucial role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Nylon is favored for its ability to produce a duller and rounder sound profile, contributing to a uniform typing experience. The Gazzew U4, in contrast, incorporates its proprietary Gazzew blend for the bottom housing, which mirrors the soft qualities of the nylon while providing its unique sound characteristics. The interplay of these distinct materials means that both switches can deliver satisfying acoustic results and tactile feedback, although each retains its identity based on the material utilized.
Ultimately, the similarities in sound profile result from the inherent qualities of the materials used in both switches. While the Cherry MX Purple RGB uses traditional nylon, the Gazzew U4 opts for an innovative proprietary blend. Each switch’s top and bottom housings will allow typists to experience a similar auditory richness, owing to the absorption properties of both nylon and boba plastic. This nuanced design showcases how different materials can deliver comparable acoustic results while still providing unique tactile experiences. Therefore, regardless of the exact compositions, users may not only choose based on preference but also find satisfaction in the similar auditory and tactile sensations provided by both switches.
Weight
The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch display comparable actuation forces, both requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. This similarity in actuation force means that users will experience a similar tactile feedback upon activation, making both switches suitable for long typing sessions without causing excessive strain. However, the notable difference arises in their bottom out forces—the Gazzew U4 has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which indicates a heavier and more substantial feel when fully depressing the key, compared to the unspecified bottom out force for the Cherry MX Purple RGB. Consequently, while both switches offer a lighter actuation experience, the Gazzew U4 caters to those who prefer a firmer overall typing experience due to its higher bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference of 0.4 mm illustrates the trend in keyboard switches, where shorter travel distances are increasingly favored, particularly among gamers seeking quicker response times. The U4, with its 3.6 mm travel distance, offers a more immediate feel that can be appealing for rapid key presses, while the MX Purple RGB provides a deeper and more tactile experience, potentially preferred by users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback with each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference: if you favor responsiveness and speed, the Gazzew U4 is the better option; however, if you appreciate the traditional depth and tactile feedback, the Cherry MX Purple RGB would be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
The Gazzew U4 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
The sound profile of the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is not explicitly detailed, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, it's important to note that the U4 switch has a distinctly muted and low-pitched sound, resulting in a softer and quieter typing experience. This design minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, making it an excellent choice for quieter environments. Users can expect a bass-heavy, mellow tone, which contrasts with the generally sharper, more resonant sounds that some traditional switches produce. Therefore, while the MX Purple RGB's sound characteristics remain unspecified, one could anticipate that the quieter nature of the U4 would provide a more discreet auditory experience overall.
In terms of feel, the MX Purple RGB is characterized by its refined tactile experience, featuring a medium-strength bump that allows for smooth feedback without being overly harsh. Meanwhile, the Gazzew U4 is noted for its sharp tactile feedback, offering a strong and crisp bump with every key press. Users will likely find that while both switches provide tactile feedback, the U4's feedback intensity is more pronounced, creating a dynamic and exhilarating typing experience. The U4 also boasts a plush bottom-out sensation that adds to its overall comfort, differentiating it from the more traditional feel of the Cherry MX Purple RGB.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Gazzew U4 tactile switches cater to different preferences, particularly in sound and feel. The U4 offers a muted sound profile and a sharp tactile experience with a plush bottom-out, while the MX Purple RGB provides a refined tactile sensation with an unspecified sound quality. Ultimately, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience in their own ways; those seeking a quieter, more plush experience might lean toward the U4, whereas those who appreciate a well-rounded tactile bump might find satisfaction in the Cherry MX Purple RGB. The individual characteristics of each switch will play a significant role in determining which is the better fit for a particular user.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and intended usage. If you favor a refined tactile experience with a subtle, medium-strength bump and are looking for a switch developed specifically for enthusiasts, the MX Purple RGB is an excellent choice. It offers a well-rounded feel without an overly heavy bottom-out force, making it suitable for both gaming and typing sessions where responsiveness is key. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile response with a sharp bump and a pleasantly plush bottom-out sensation, the Gazzew U4 could be the better option. The U4's medium bottom-out force provides a satisfying feedback intensity that can enhance your typing experience while ensuring a quieter operation, thanks to its muted and low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a more understated feel or seek a pronounced tactile response coupled with silence in a mechanical switch.
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