Cherry MX Red vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Red and Gazzew U4Tx stand out as popular choices for different reasons. The MX Red is well-known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx offers a unique blend of features, with a cleaner, refined sound profile that marries the deep "thock" of bottoming out with the quiet stealth of topping out. The U4Tx also delivers a sharp, satisfying tactile bump with each press, ensuring a luxurious typing experience. While the MX Red is 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the U4Tx is 'Bassy', 'Muted', and 'Sharp'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
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 Red and Gazzew U4Tx both use housing materials that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The Cherry MX Red features a nylon top housing that absorbs sound and creates a duller, rounder sound, while the Gazzew U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing known for delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Despite the slight variation in materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Cherry MX Red and Gazzew U4Tx share a commonality in using nylon for this component. Nylon is known for its softness and ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This similarity suggests that both switches may offer a similar typing experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4Tx may still provide a slightly different sound profile compared to the nylon bottom housing of the MX Red.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound profile of a switch, it becomes evident that the bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While the Cherry MX Red and Gazzew U4Tx have differences in their top housing materials, their shared used of nylon for the bottom housing suggests that users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference and the specific sound profile that each user prefers.
Weight
The Cherry MX Red linear switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter compared to the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, which does not have a specified actuation force. When it comes to bottom out force, the U4Tx requires 62.5 grams, which is heavier than the MX Red, where the bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Cherry MX Red for longer typing sessions or gaming, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Gazzew U4Tx with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches provide different tactile feedback and typing experiences, with the weight of the force being a key factor in determining user preference.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The MX Red is considered to have a more traditional travel distance compared to the U4Tx. Gamers may prefer the MX Red for its slightly longer travel distance, as it provides a bit more depth when typing or gaming. On the other hand, those who value a quicker response time may lean towards the U4Tx with its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer their own benefits depending on individual preferences, with the U4Tx providing a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the MX Red.
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 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 Red switch offers a thocky and low-pitched typing experience, creating a deep and satisfying sound with each press. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switch provides a bassy and muted sound profile, offering a deeper and richer tone while minimizing overall keyboard noise. Depending on your preference for sound, you can achieve different auditory results with these switches, but both will provide a pleasant typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is known for its textured feel, offering a slightly heftier typing experience with noticeable friction when pressed. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx switch provides a sharp tactile bump, creating a high feedback intensity that is felt distinctly with every keypress. Whether you prefer a smoother typing experience with a subtle texture or a strong and crisp tactile feedback, both switches offer unique tactile qualities for a comfortable typing session.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch each bring their own set of subjective qualities to the table, allowing users to choose a switch that best suits their preferences. While the MX Red offers a deeper sound profile and a textured feel, the U4Tx provides a cleaner sound with a sharp tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Just keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing needs. If you prefer a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile with a smoother typing experience, the Cherry MX Red switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for a cleaner, refined sound profile with a sharp tactile bump and a luxurious typing experience, the Gazzew U4Tx switch could be the ideal option. Consider factors such as sound preference, typing style, and desired feedback intensity when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing preferences and needs.
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