Cherry Nixie vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Both the Cherry Nixie and the Gazzew U4Tx mechanical keyboard switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The Cherry Nixie is revered for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, thanks to the updated materials and springs from Cherry's recent MX2A update. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches are designed to provide a cleaner, refined sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out experience. While the Nixie offers a low-pitched and thocky typing sensation, the U4Tx provides a bassy and sharp tactile feel. Both switches have their own merits, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you decide which switch is best suited to your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
63.5g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The Cherry Nixie and the Gazzew U4Tx both feature housing materials that prioritize sound quality and typing experience. The Nixie utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the material that absorbs sound effectively. On the other hand, the U4Tx employs a proprietary Gazzew blend for both its top and bottom housing, known for delivering a rich and deep sound profile similar to "boba plastic." Both switches offer a more subdued and rounded sound compared to harder plastics, enhancing the overall typing experience.
However, the key difference between the Cherry Nixie and the Gazzew U4Tx lies in the specific qualities of their housing materials. While both switches aim to provide a similar sound profile and typing feel, the Nixie's nylon housing may offer a slightly deeper sound due to its classic switch housing material. Meanwhile, the U4Tx's Gazzew blend housing may provide a richer sound due to its proprietary plastic blend, often likened to "boba plastic." These differences in material composition may result in subtle variations in sound and typing experience between the two switches.
In terms of construction, the Cherry Nixie separates its top and bottom housing materials to distribute the qualities brought by nylon throughout the switch. This means that the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx utilizes the same proprietary blend for both top and bottom housing, ensuring a consistent sound profile and typing experience across the switch. Ultimately, whether you prefer the Cherry Nixie or the Gazzew U4Tx will depend on your preference for specific sound characteristics and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is evident that the Nixie is the heavier option with an actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, whereas the U4Tx is lighter with a bottom out force of 62.5 grams and an unknown actuation force. The Nixie requires a more substantial push for both actuation and bottoming out, providing a typing experience with a more significant tactile feedback. In contrast, the U4Tx offers a lighter typing experience with a smoother actuation, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches have their advantages depending on the user's preference, with the Nixie catering to those who prefer a heavier feel and the U4Tx appealing to those who prefer a lighter touch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Nixie has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the U4Tx, making it the more traditional option. However, the U4Tx offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, if you prefer a more responsive feel, the U4Tx would be the better choice, but if you prefer a deeper press, the Nixie may be more suitable. Both switches offer a different tactile experience due to their travel distances, but each can provide a satisfying typing experience based on individual preferences.
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 $4.15.
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 Nixie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep and satisfying noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch provides a bassy and muted sound experience, creating a rich and quiet typing environment. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is described as having a textured typing experience, providing a tactile feedback that some users may find enjoyable. In comparison, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a sharp tactile bump with high feedback intensity, allowing for a distinct and crisp keypress with each stroke. Again, the decision between these switches will come down to individual typing preferences and which tactile sensation resonates more with the user.
Overall, both the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Nixie provides a textured typing experience with a thocky sound, the U4Tx delivers a sharp tactile bump and a bassy, muted sound profile. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or both in your mechanical keyboard experience, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, trying out both switches on different keyboards with various keycap sets may be the best way to determine which one suits your preferences the most.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Cherry Nixie linear switch or the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a deep, thocky sound profile, then the Nixie may be the switch for you. However, if you enjoy a more medium bottom out force with a sharp, satisfying tactile bump and a bassy, muted sound profile, then the U4Tx switch could be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force. Make sure to consider these factors carefully before making your final decision on which switch to go for.
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