Cherry Nixie vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Cherry Nixie and the Gazzew U4 are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Nixie is well-regarded for its substantial heft and textured feel, providing a satisfying thocky sound that resonates with traditional keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the U4 offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, creating a more muted and subdued typing experience. While the Nixie boasts a low-pitched sound profile, the U4 delivers a whisper-quiet performance. These differences make each switch suitable for different preferences and environments. 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
63.5g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
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
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Cherry Nixie and the Gazzew U4 both use unique housing materials to enhance the sound and feel of typing on the switches. The Nixie features a nylon top and bottom housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, the U4 uses Gazzew's proprietary blend of plastic for both the top and bottom housing, delivering a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its soft characteristics. While both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, the Nixie's use of nylon may offer a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the U4's "boba plastic."
Although both the Nixie and the U4 utilize soft housing materials to enhance sound quality, there are differences in how the materials impact the overall typing experience. The Nixie's nylon top housing may contribute more to the sound when keys are released, while the Gazzew U4's proprietary plastic blend may have a greater effect on the bottom-out sound and feel when keys are pressed. The unique characteristics of each housing material play a crucial role in creating a distinct typing experience for users of each switch. However, both switches aim to provide a satisfying sound profile that enhances the typing experience for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
In conclusion, while the Cherry Nixie and the Gazzew U4 both use soft housing materials to create a rich and deep sound profile, their unique characteristics offer slightly different typing experiences. The Nixie's nylon housing may provide a duller and rounder sound due to its softness and sound-absorbing properties, while the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend plastic may offer a more distinct and impactful sound when keys are pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired sound profile for each individual user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is clear that the Nixie is the heavier option. The Nixie has an actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, while the U4 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. The Nixie provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, making it a good choice for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the U4 offers a lighter typing experience, which is ideal for long typing sessions or extended gaming sessions where lighter actuation forces are preferred. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with different options based on their preferences.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Nixie has a slightly longer travel distance than the U4. Both switches fall within the traditional travel distance range, with the Nixie being on the slightly longer side and the U4 being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the U4 for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the Nixie. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry Nixie linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched experience, giving typists a deep and rich sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch provides a muted and low-pitched sound, ensuring a quieter typing experience that won't disturb those around you. Both switches offer a pleasant auditory experience, with the Nixie leaning towards a deeper tone and the U4 focusing on silence.
In terms of feel, the Cherry Nixie switch is praised for its textured typing experience, providing users with a tactile feedback that adds a unique element to their keystrokes. Conversely, the Gazzew U4 switch offers a sharp and intense tactile bump, giving typists a crisp and distinct sensation with each press of a key. While the Nixie focuses on a textured feel, the U4 prioritizes a sharp tactile feedback for a more pronounced typing experience.
Overall, when comparing the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, users can expect different experiences in both sound and feel. The Nixie offers a textured and low-pitched sound with a tactile feedback, while the U4 provides a muted and low-pitched sound with a sharp tactile bump. Depending on personal preference and typing style, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to varying needs and preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, whether you choose the Nixie or the U4, you can expect a satisfying typing experience that aligns with your individual preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a heavier actuation force and a deep, low-pitched "thocky" sound, the Nixie may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force, a muted, low-pitched sound profile, and a sharp, intense tactile feedback, the U4 could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your personal typing experience.
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