Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gazzew U4 are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences and needs. The Speed Silver is a linear switch renowned for its lightning-fast response time, making it ideal for gamers who require quick and precise keystrokes to gain a competitive edge. On the other hand, the U4 offers a tactile typing experience with a satisfying bump and a cushioned bottom-out feel, appealing to those who appreciate feedback while typing or gaming. The Speed Silver is categorized as textured and low-pitched, while the U4 is described as muted and sharp. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 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 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gazzew U4 both utilize soft housing materials to enhance the sound profile of the switches. The nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver and the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4 both contribute to a deeper and richer sound when typing. The nylon material of the MX Speed Silver absorbs sound due to its softer nature, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich sound profile thanks to its softness. In this aspect, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their top housing materials.
While the top housing materials of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gazzew U4 offer similar sound benefits, the differences in their bottom housing materials provide distinct characteristics to each switch. The nylon bottom housing of the MX Speed Silver contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, offering a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4, also referred to as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile that enhances the overall typing sound and feel. These differences in bottom housing materials showcase how each switch can provide a different typing experience based on their construction.
When considering the impact of top and bottom housing materials on a switch, it becomes evident that the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gazzew U4 offer distinct advantages. The bottom housing of a switch influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the combination of nylon top and bottom housing in the Cherry MX Speed Silver provides a balanced typing experience, while the Gazzew U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing materials offer a unique and rich sound profile. Ultimately, both switches excel in enhancing the typing sound and feel through their housing materials, providing users with a customized typing experience.
Weight
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams compared to the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the MX Speed Silver is unknown, while the U4 has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the MX Speed Silver may be the better option, as it requires less force to trigger keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 provides a more substantial typing feel with its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have their own advantages depending on personal preference, with the MX Speed Silver offering a lighter touch and the Gazzew U4 providing a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the MX Speed Silver being the shorter of the two. Gamers may prefer the MX Speed Silver for its faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their key press may opt for the Gazzew U4. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver for $4.00.
The Gazzew U4 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, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gazzew U4 offer distinct experiences. The MX Speed Silver produces a thocky and low-pitched sound when pressed, giving a deep and satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the U4 provides a muted and low-pitched sound profile, offering a quieter typing experience ideal for those who prefer a more understated auditory output. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material used.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is noted for its textured action, which may provide a unique tactile sensation during use. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 features a sharp tactile bump that delivers high feedback intensity with each keypress, giving users a distinct and pronounced tactile experience. Whether you prefer a smoother or more pronounced tactile feel is subjective and will depend on personal preference.
In conclusion, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gazzew U4 switches offer differing sound and feel experiences, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences. If you enjoy a linear switch with a rapid response time and textured feel, the MX Speed Silver may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a tactile switch with a sharp and distinctive tactile bump and a muted sound profile, the U4 could be the perfect option. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your specific typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch or the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and intended use. If you are a gamer looking for lightning-fast response times and prefer a smooth, linear feel with no tactile feedback, the MX Speed Silver may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a typist who values a tactile bump and enjoys a quieter typing experience, the Gazzew U4 switch with its sharp tactile feedback and muted sound profile may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features and benefits that cater to different preferences, so it is important to consider your own typing style and preferences before making a decision.
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