Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Gazzew U4Tx both make compelling cases for tactile enthusiasts, albeit in different ways. The Cherry MX Purple RGB is acclaimed for its refined tactile feedback, featuring a medium-strength bump that is ideal for typists who appreciate a pronounced tactile response without being overly loud, making it suitable for both gaming and office environments. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx switches marry a beautiful acoustic profile with tactile satisfaction; they deliver a deep, resonant "thock" sound upon bottoming out while maintaining a whisper-quiet nature at the top of the key travel, creating a luxurious typing ambiance. While the MX Purple RGB emphasizes a balanced tactile feel, the U4Tx excels in producing a rich sound experience alongside its tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your unique preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Gazzew U4Tx switches both utilize nylon and a proprietary plastic blend for their respective housings, yet they embody unique characteristics due to their material formulations. The MX Purple RGB features traditional nylon for both its top and bottom housing, creating a specific auditory experience that emphasizes a deep and fuller sound profile. This is achieved through nylon's relatively softer properties, which enable the plastic to absorb sound waves that might otherwise contribute to higher-pitched noises. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx employs what is commonly known as "boba plastic," a proprietary blend that also emphasizes a deeper sound but brings its own nuances to the auditory experience. Both switches excel at providing a rich sound profile thanks to the softness of their materials.
When analyzing the bottom housings, both the MX Purple RGB and the U4Tx exhibit similar properties. The nylon bottom housing in the Cherry MX promotes a dull and rounded sound, effectively absorbing vibrations produced when the switch bottoms out. Meanwhile, the Gazzew's proprietary blend equally ensures a rich and deep sound profile as it acts in the same manner, absorbing sound waves and producing a pleasing auditory experience during typing. This similarity means that regardless of the specific material used, users can expect a satisfying sensation and sound when bottoming out during use, which contributes positively to the overall typing experience.
However, the differences manifest in the top housings, where the MX Purple RGB's nylon contrasts with the softer Gazzew blend of the U4Tx. While both distributions maintain the trend of delivering a rounded sound, the specific impact of each housing must be taken into account. The top housing plays a significant role in determining the sound produced when releasing a key; hence, users might observe variances in the auditory feedback during key release. Although both set-ups promise deep sound profiles, the specific material used in both the top and bottom of the switches creates unique auditory signatures, enriching the typing experience tailored to personal preferences among users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, we find some key differences. The Cherry MX Purple RGB has a specified actuation force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option suitable for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming, where reducing strain is a priority. However, the bottom out force for the MX Purple RGB is unavailable, leaving a gap in our understanding of its resistance when fully pressed. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx does not provide a specified actuation force, yet it features a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, which indicates a medium resistance that may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, while we know the Cherry MX Purple RGB is lighter in terms of actuation, the unknowns regarding their actuation forces and the significant bottom out force of the U4Tx suggest that the MX Purple might yield a different typing sensation compared to the heavier resistance of the U4Tx when bottoming out.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, we find a distinct difference between the two. The Cherry MX Purple RGB switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional preference for a deeper keystroke. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to the modern trend of quicker responsiveness, particularly favored by gamers. For those who prioritize a more pronounced tactile feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB would be the better choice, while those seeking faster response times may prefer the Gazzew U4Tx for its shorter travel. Ultimately, this difference in travel distance highlights the varying preferences among users, with the U4Tx being the shorter option and the MX Purple RGB offering a more substantial keystroke experience.
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 U4Tx 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 Purple RGB switches deliver a well-rounded auditory experience that sits comfortably in the middle range of mechanical keyboard acoustics. However, the U4Tx switches excel in providing a deeper and richer sound profile characterized by a bassy resonance when bottoming out, which many users find satisfying. The U4Tx also features a more muted output overall, minimizing the clackiness associated with traditional switches and creating a quieter feel as you reach the top of the key press. Overall, while both switches offer pleasant sound experiences, the U4Tx provides a unique depth and refinement that stands apart from the MX Purple RGB.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a refined tactile experience with a medium-strength bump, delivering an enjoyable balance for typists and gamers alike. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches are engineered to provide a sharp, intense tactile bump with high feedback intensity. This means that while the MX Purple RGB offers a satisfying yet gentle tactile experience, the U4Tx provides a more pronounced tactile feedback that may appeal to users who prefer a more responsive and invigorating typing sensation.
In summary, both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Gazzew U4Tx switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The MX Purple RGB provides a balanced auditory profile with a moderate tactile experience, whereas the U4Tx emphasizes a deeper, richer sound and a more sharply defined tactile feedback. Users looking for a refined typing experience can expect pleasurable results from either switch, but those who prioritize sound dynamics and crumble feedback may find the U4Tx to be a more luxurious option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and intended use cases.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switches will largely depend on your personal preferences regarding typing experience, actuation force, and sound profile. If you're seeking a switch that offers a refined tactile response with a short, medium-strength bump, the Cherry MX Purple RGB could be the ideal choice, especially if you appreciate RGB lighting and a more open design that allows for a bit of a snappy feel. However, if you prioritize an acoustically pleasing and deeper sound profile along with a sharper tactile feedback, the Gazzew U4Tx switches might be the way to go. With their unique combination of a resonant "thock" sound and a smooth, stealthy topping-out experience, these switches excel in providing an immersive typing experience that is less prone to disturbances. Consider how much you value the overall noise level and the intensity of feedback while making your decision, as both switches cater to different preferences within the tactile switch spectrum. Ultimately, your choice should align with what feels most comfortable and satisfying for your individual typing style.
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