Cherry MX Red vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Red and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB each offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Cherry MX Red is a beloved linear switch celebrated for its slightly heftier feel and deep sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that is both responsive and satisfying. With its 'thocky' and 'textured' qualities, it’s a great choice for gamers and typists alike who enjoy a smooth actuation without tactile feedback. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is a tactile switch that masterfully combines the deep 'thock' of its bottoming out with the quiet stealth of its topping out. This unique sound profile, complemented by a sharp tactile bump, makes the U4Tx RGB ideal for those who appreciate a more luxurious type feel, as well as a 'muted' and 'bassy' auditory experience. While both switches excel in their respective categories, each brings a different flavor to the 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

Cherry MX Red Linear

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The Cherry MX Red and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB use different materials for their housing, yet both serve to create a sound profile that is rich and full, enhancing the typing experience. The Cherry MX Red features a top and bottom housing made from nylon, a classic and widely utilized switch housing material. The choice of nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as this softer plastic tends to absorb sound more effectively than its harder counterparts. As a result, when typing on a Cherry MX Red switch, users experience a duller, rounder acoustic quality, which is particularly noticeable during the release of the key.

In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB utilizes a proprietary blend of plastic known informally as "boba plastic" for both its top and bottom housings. Similar to nylon, this blend is softer, allowing it to absorb sound and produce a rich sound profile. The unique formulation of this "boba plastic" not only provides a different tactile experience but also contributes to an equally profound acoustic signature when typing. This means that while the materials differ, both switches rely on their softer construction to deliver a sound quality that is characterized by depth and fullness, making them appealing to different user preferences.

When examining the impact of housing materials on sound, it's important to consider how the interplay of the top and bottom housings influences the overall typing experience. In both the Cherry MX Red and Gazzew U4Tx RGB, the qualities of sound produced are distributed between the two housings, with the bottom housing significantly affecting the bottom-out feel and sound, while the top housing influences the release sound. Despite the differing materials, both switch designs effectively leverage their softer properties to create a similar acoustic environment, allowing users to achieve comparable results in sound richness and tactile feedback whether they choose one over the other.

Weight

When comparing the Cherry MX Red linear switch to the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, we see distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying preferences among users. The Cherry MX Red features an actuation force of 45 grams, which allows for a lighter and more effortless keystroke, making it suitable for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, the bottom out force of the MX Red is unknown, leaving some ambiguity in terms of its full resistance when fully pressed down. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB has an unknown actuation force but boasts a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. This heavier resistance provides users with a more substantial tactile experience, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel while typing. Consequently, the Cherry MX Red is the lighter option, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB leans toward the heavier side, making them suited for different typing styles and preferences.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Cherry MX Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with traditional preferences for deeper key presses that some users find satisfying for typing and gaming. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, appealing to gamers who favor quicker response times. While both switches offer unique advantages—such as the MX Red providing a more pronounced depth for a robust feel and the U4Tx catering to those seeking a lighter touch—the MX Red ultimately offers a longer travel distance. If you lean towards shorter, more responsive options, the U4Tx would be favorable, whereas if you appreciate a more substantial keystroke, the MX Red is the better choice.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound qualities of the Cherry MX Red and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches, both offer engaging auditory experiences but highlight different aspects. The Cherry MX Red is known for its thocky sound, producing a deep, rich auditory response that resembles a soft thud or knock when keys are pressed and released. This hefty sound can provide a satisfying depth to the typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is characterized by a more muted sound profile, minimizing typical keyboard noise, and pairs this with a bassy tone that adds richness without overwhelming the auditory experience. The blending of these qualities in the U4Tx results in a harmonious balance between softness and depth, which reflects a more refined auditory palette.

In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Red switches are noted for their somewhat textured experience, characterized by noticeable friction when pressed. This texture may be appreciated by those who prefer a tactile sensation as they type, adding a level of engagement to each keystroke. On the other hand, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB does not have a description for its feel, they are known to provide a sharp tactile bump, which contributes to an overall luxurious typing experience. The tactile feedback of the U4Tx switches may appeal to users looking for a more defined response with each keystroke, contrasting with the smoother and slightly scratchier feel of the MX Reds.

In conclusion, both the Cherry MX Red and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches offer unique experiences in terms of sound and feel that cater to different typing preferences. The MX Red's deep, thocky sound and textured feeling provide a classic yet robust experience, ideal for users who appreciate auditory feedback alongside a noticeable texture. Conversely, the U4Tx RGB enhances the experience with its muted, bassy sound and advanced tactile feedback, appealing to those seeking a quieter yet luxurious typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences in sound and feel.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, your choice should align with your specific typing needs and preferences. If you favor a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a relatively heftier feel, the Cherry MX Red is an excellent choice, particularly for gaming or fast-paced typing scenarios. Its thocky sound adds a satisfying depth to your typing experience, making it ideal for those who appreciate auditory feedback without the distraction of excessive noise. On the other hand, if you prefer a more nuanced tactile experience with a distinct bump that enhances typing accuracy, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is the way to go. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force and muted sound profile provide a luxurious feel that’s perfect for prolonged typing sessions or a quieter workspace. The deeper "thock" when bottoming out, combined with its softer topping out, offers a refined auditory and tactile experience that many find rewarding. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a smoother, linear feel or a tactile, refined typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Red Linear

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more