Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB often hinges on personal preference and the intended usage environment. The Cherry MX Silent Red, characterized as muted and thocky, delivers the classic smoothness of a linear switch while ensuring a quieter typing experience, making it an excellent option for those in noise-sensitive settings like libraries or shared workspaces. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB offers a tactile switch experience that combines a profound "thock" sound with a pronounced tactile bump, catering to typists who appreciate a more engaged feel while still maintaining a level of sound discretion. Both switches present unique advantages depending on your typing style; the Silent Red is ideal for a serene working environment, while the U4Tx RGB caters to those who value tactile feedback alongside a refined auditory delight. 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 Silent Red Linear

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.00

$4.15 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB mechanical switches, it’s clear that both utilize soft plastic materials known for their acoustic properties. The MX Silent Red features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is celebrated for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic arises from nylon's relatively softer nature, allowing it to absorb sound effectively and produce a more muted, rounded auditory experience while typing. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch employs a proprietary plastic blend, often referred to as "boba plastic," for both its top and bottom housing. This specialized blend is designed to emulate the acoustic benefits of nylon but may offer its unique sound signature attributed to its specific formulation.

Despite the material differences, both the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches aim to deliver similar sound profiles. The nylon used in the Silent Red and the Gazzew blend both contribute to rich auditory experiences, albeit through slight variations in texture and composition. The MX Silent Red achieves its depth through the characteristics of nylon, which is noted for sound-dampening qualities, while the U4Tx RGB aims for the same result with its boba plastic that promises softness. The outcome is that both switches provide a typing experience that minimizes ping and maximizes sound warmth, making them appealing options for those who enjoy a quieter keyboard.

In terms of tactile feedback and sound response, the effects of these housing materials manifest in different parts of the switches. Users of the MX Silent Red can expect a more pronounced impact on the bottom-out sound, primarily influenced by the nylon bottom housing. Similarly, with the U4Tx RGB, the effects of the proprietary blend would play a crucial role in both the bottom-out feel and sound control. However, the top housing material influences how the sound transitions when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Cherry MX Silent Red and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches may utilize different materials, the presence of soft plastics in both maintains a focus on achieving similar auditory and tactile results, making each suitable for users seeking a pleasing typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cherry MX Silent Red has a defined actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that it requires a moderate amount of pressure to register a keystroke, making it suitable for users who favor a lighter touch. In contrast, the actuation force for the U4Tx RGB is unknown, making direct comparisons difficult. However, the U4Tx RGB features a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorized as medium-heavy, which means that while it may feel heavier when fully pressed down, its actuation characteristics remain indeterminate. Since the MX Silent Red's bottom out force is not available, we cannot assess their respective bottoming out experiences. Overall, the Cherry MX Silent Red can be characterized as the lighter option, which may appeal to typists looking for extended comfort during long typing sessions, while the U4Tx RGB may provide a more substantial experience for those who prefer a heavier feel.

Travel distance

The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Silent Red switch allows for a more pronounced key press, potentially offering a more substantial feel for users who prefer a deeper activation point. On the other hand, the U4Tx RGB's shorter travel distance may cater to gamers looking for quicker response times, making it more suitable for rapid key presses. While both switches are relatively close in travel distance, those who favor a more tactile experience might gravitate toward the U4Tx RGB, whereas those preferring a deeper press might find the Cherry MX Silent Red to be the better choice.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Silent Red offers a significant advantage for those who value a quieter typing experience. This switch has a muted sound profile, producing softer and quieter noises compared to traditional mechanical switches, making it an ideal companion for noise-sensitive environments. It embodies a thocky quality as well, exuding a satisfying deep "thud" or soft "knock" when engaged, yet this is accompanied by a low-pitched tone that further enhances its discreet nature. Contrasting with this, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB focuses on creating an enriched auditory experience with a deep "thock" when bottoming out, while maintaining a quieter, stealthy sound when the key releases. This blend results in a refined sound profile, appealing to users who enjoy a rich auditory feedback without excessive noise.

In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red is characterized by a textured sensation, offering noticeable friction when pressed. This texture may provide a more engaging typing experience for some users; however, it may not suit everyone’s preference, particularly those who favor a smoother key press. On the other hand, the feel of the Gazzew U4Tx RGB has not been described, leaving it an unknown variable. This means potential users might want to sample the U4Tx to see if the tactile feedback aligns with their typing style and comfort.

Overall, the Cherry MX Silent Red and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches cater to different typing preferences while maintaining their own unique characteristics. The Silent Red shines in its quiet operation combined with a slightly textured feel, making it ideal for those who type in shared spaces. In contrast, the U4Tx appeals to users who appreciate a rich sound profile and can offer tactile feedback that wasn't explicitly detailed. For those new to mechanical keyboards, choosing between these two may largely come down to personal preferences regarding sound and tactile sensations, which could lead to a satisfying typing experience regardless of the selection.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch should be guided by your specific needs and preferences. If you often find yourself in a noise-sensitive environment, perhaps sharing a workspace or living with others who are disturbed by keyboard sounds, the MX Silent Red would be the optimal choice. Its muted, low-pitched sound profile allows you to enjoy the mechanical typing experience without the distraction of audible clicks or clacks, making it ideal for both gaming and typing in quieter settings. Additionally, if you prefer a smoother typing feel without any tactile feedback, this switch will serve you well. On the other hand, if you seek a more immersive typing experience and enjoy the satisfying thock of a tactile switch, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is certainly worth considering. With its medium-heavy actuation force and distinct tactile bump, it offers a luxurious feel that many enthusiasts appreciate, along with a rich sound that enhances feedback during usage. Ultimately, base your decision on the atmosphere you’re in and the typing experience you crave, as either switch caters to different aspects of the mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Silent Red Linear

$6.00

$4.15 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more