Bsun Olive vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a unique tactile experience, the Bsun Olive and the Gazzew U4Tx are two options worth considering. The Bsun Olive switches stand out for their all-POM housings, delivering a deep and resonant sound that enhances the typing experience. With pronounced tactile feedback and a sharp bottom-out, these medium-weight switches provide a satisfying feel that is both invigorating and snappy. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer a refined sound profile that combines the best of both worlds - a deep "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out. The sharp tactile bump of the U4Tx ensures a luxurious typing experience that is both acoustically pleasing and tactile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Olive and the Gazzew U4Tx both utilize unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Olive's POM top and bottom housings create a deep and muted sound, while the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housings deliver a rich and deep sound due to their softness. Despite their differences, both switches aim to provide a pleasant typing experience with their respective housing materials.
In terms of sound, the POM top and bottom housings of the Bsun Olive offer a pleasing and unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. On the other hand, the Gazzew blend top and bottom housings of the Gazzew U4Tx produce a rich and deep sound due to their softness. While the sound profiles of these switches may vary slightly, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique housing materials.
When comparing the impact of the housing materials on the typing experience, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when letting go of a key. Despite this distinction, both the Bsun Olive and the Gazzew U4Tx aim to provide a tactile and enjoyable typing experience by incorporating their respective housing materials into their design.
Weight
The Bsun Olive tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gazzew U4Tx, which does not have a specified actuation force. However, the U4Tx has a lighter bottom out force of 62.5 grams compared to the Olive's 65 grams. This makes the U4Tx a slightly lighter option overall. The actuation force of the Olive provides a bit more resistance at the beginning of the keystroke, while the U4Tx offers a smoother experience without a specified actuation force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the U4Tx may be the preferred choice, while the Olive may appeal to those who enjoy a bit more tactile feedback. Both switches offer a medium-level force overall, making them suitable for a variety of typing preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, we can see that the Olive has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the U4Tx has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular among users, especially gamers looking for faster response times. The difference of 0.2 mm between the two switches may not be significant to most users, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper key press, the U4Tx could be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if a more responsive and quicker key press is desired, the Bsun Olive with its slightly shorter travel distance may be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience the user is looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Olive tactile switch is best known for its resonant and deep sound profile, offering a satisfying auditory experience during use. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch provides a cleaner and refined sound profile, combining a deep "thock" when bottoming out with a whisper-quiet topping out sound. While the Olive switch delivers a bassy sound, the U4Tx switch produces a muted and softer sound, perfect for those looking for a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Olive tactile switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a tactile bump that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, but distinctly felt with each keypress. In comparison, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is also described as sharp, offering a high feedback intensity with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt prominently. Both switches provide a tactile typing experience that is responsive and immersive, perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying keypress.
In conclusion, the Bsun Olive and Gazzew U4Tx tactile switches each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Olive switch stands out for its resonant and deep sound profile paired with pronounced tactile feedback, while the U4Tx switch provides a cleaner sound and a sharp tactile bump. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference, with the Olive switch offering a more pronounced and satisfying sound experience, and the U4Tx switch delivering a refined and quiet typing experience. Both switches promise a luxurious typing experience that enthusiasts will appreciate.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, you should consider the differences in bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a pronounced tactile feedback and a deep, resonant sound, the Bsun Olive would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a cleaner, more refined sound profile that combines a deep "thock" with a whisper-quiet operation, then the Gazzew U4Tx may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferred typing experience and the specific characteristics that align with your preferences in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
