Cherry MX Red vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Red and Gazzew U4T stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The MX Red is a linear switch, known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience with responsiveness and auditory depth. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T is a tactile switch that combines thockiness and sharp tactility, providing a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback. Each switch has its strengths; the MX Red is great for those seeking a smooth typing experience, while the U4T is ideal for enthusiasts who value both audible and tactile feedback in each keystroke. However, let's dive deeper beyond generalities to help you determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
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
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and the Gazzew U4T switches both offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softness. The MX Red utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T features a proprietary plastic blend known as "boba plastic" for both its top and bottom housing, delivering a rich and deep sound profile. These similarities in sound profile can be attributed to the softness of the housing materials in both switches.
Despite their similarities in sound profile, the Cherry MX Red and the Gazzew U4T differ in their housing materials' specific characteristics. The MX Red's nylon housing is a classic switch housing material known for its softer plastic that results in a deeper sound profile, while the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend is specially designed to offer a rich and deep sound profile. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique housing materials, catering to different preferences in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of impact on the typing experience, the housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and the Gazzew U4T play a crucial role. The bottom housing of a switch has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can influence the overall typing experience, as the softness and sound-absorbing properties of the materials can contribute to a more satisfying typing sound and feel.
Weight
Comparing the Cherry MX Red linear switch to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, the MX Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the U4T's unknown actuation force. However, in terms of bottom out force, the U4T is heavier with a force of 65 grams, while the MX Red's bottom out force is unknown. The difference in actuation force could result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the MX Red, while the heavier bottom out force of the U4T may provide a more substantial typing feel. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the MX Red may be the preferred choice. In contrast, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the U4T for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent travel distance. The Cherry MX Red is known for its smooth and linear keystrokes, making it popular among gamers for its quick and precise actuation. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T offers a tactile bump during key presses, providing a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer feedback while typing. Despite these differences in feel, the travel distance remains the same for both switches, ensuring a similar level of key press depth for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, both the Cherry MX Red and Gazzew U4T switches offer a delightful auditory experience with deep and rich tones. The MX Red provides a slightly thocky and low-pitched sound, while the U4T delivers a bassy and thocky sound profile. Despite some differences in characteristics, both switches offer a satisfying sound quality that can enhance the typing experience for users.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is known for its textured feel, providing a subtle friction when pressed that some users may appreciate. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switch offers a sharp tactile feedback with a distinct and strong tactile bump that can be felt with each keystroke. These differing tactile qualities cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel, allowing users to choose based on their individual tactile preferences.
Ultimately, whether you opt for the Cherry MX Red or the Gazzew U4T switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either choice. Both switches offer unique sound and feel attributes that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you will experience satisfying auditory and tactile feedback regardless of the option you select. It is important to consider your personal typing preferences and needs when choosing between these two switches, as both offer reliable performance and a premium typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth and responsive typing feel with a slightly heftier touch and deeper sound profile, the MX Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a keyboard switch that offers a harmonious blend of thockiness and sharp tactile feedback, the U4T could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel to enhance your overall typing satisfaction. Choose wisely and enjoy your mechanical keyboard experience!
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