Haimu Orange Sea vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Haimu Orange Sea and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between linear and tactile can significantly impact your typing experience, and two popular options worth considering are the Haimu Orange Sea and the Gazzew U4Tx. The Haimu Orange Sea switches are renowned for their impeccably smooth feel and neutral sound signature, making them an excellent choice for those who prefer a quiet and fluid typing experience without the distraction of tactile feedback. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx switches strike a harmonious balance by combining a pronounced tactile bump with a refined sound profile. They offer a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out, complemented by the stealth of a quieter release, catering to users who seek both a satisfying tactile sensation and an acoustically pleasing environment. While the Orange Sea evokes a sense of seamlessness ideal for fast-paced gaming or writing, the U4Tx provides an enticing and luxurious experience for those who enjoy a bit more feedback with each keystroke. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Haimu Orange Sea and the Gazzew U4Tx switches, we immediately notice a striking contrast in the materials used for the top housing. The Orange Sea utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile. This feature is particularly advantageous for users who appreciate a crisper audio experience, especially when utilizing RGB lighting, as the polycarbonate's translucency enhances visual effects. In contrast, the U4Tx employs a proprietary "boba plastic" blend for its top housing, designed to deliver a rich and deep sound. This softer material diverges from the sharper quality of polycarbonate, leading to a soundscape that emphasizes warmth and depth rather than crispness.
The bottom housings of these two switches feature another layer of distinction, though both gravitate towards the softer side of the material spectrum. The Orange Sea incorporates a nylon bottom housing, a classic choice known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics results in a rounder and darker acoustic quality. Alternatively, the U4Tx also features the same proprietary "boba plastic" blend in its bottom housing, achieving a similar rich and deep sound profile. This similarity suggests that both switches will have comparable acoustic characteristics on their bottom-out sounds despite the differences in their top housing materials.
Ultimately, the differing materials of the top and bottom housings in each switch lead to distinct sound profiles, whilst their shared qualities also open pathways for maintaining a level of acoustic similarity. In both switches, the primary influence on the bottom-out sound comes from the bottom housing; thus, even with a more pronounced richness in the U4Tx due to its composite housing material, the nylon of the Orange Sea also contributes to a satisfactory auditory experience. Meanwhile, the impact of the top housing characteristics manifests when releasing the key, allowing users to enjoy different aspects of sound in each switch. In scenarios where users desire a range of auditory experiences, these switches offer valuable variations in how sound is shaped and experienced upon usage.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Orange Sea features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, categorizing it as a light switch, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming where reduced fatigue is desired. In contrast, the U4Tx does not specify an actuation force, but it has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, placing it firmly in the medium range, which suggests a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, the U4Tx is perceptibly heavier than the Orange Sea, making it suitable for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, if you're seeking a lightweight option for long use, the Haimu Orange Sea is the clear choice, whereas the Gazzew U4Tx will appeal to those who favor a heftier switch feel.
Travel distance
Both the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that users will experience the same distance when pressing down on these keys. This similarity results in a consistent feel throughout the keystroke, which can enhance typing comfort and familiarity across different switches. Therefore, whether you choose the Orange Sea or the U4Tx, you can expect a uniform travel distance that contributes to a similar overall typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79, whereas the Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50.
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 Haimu Orange Sea linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is appreciated for its understated, smooth operation. This makes it a great option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience without the characteristic noise often associated with clicky switches. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch boasts a richer auditory experience. Known for its deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out, the U4Tx provides a bassy sound that adds a satisfying layer to each keystroke. Additionally, this switch features a muted top-out sound, ensuring that while it delivers a luxurious acoustic experience, it remains relatively quiet during use. Thus, while the Orange Sea delivers a more neutral sound, those seeking depth and resonance will find the U4Tx a compelling choice.
In terms of feel, the Haimu Orange Sea is recognized for its impeccably smooth operation, allowing for fluid key presses without hindrance. This smoothness can create an effortless typing experience, particularly for those who prefer linear switches that glide without feedback. Meanwhile, the Gazzew U4Tx excels in providing a distinct tactile experience, characterized by a sharp tactile bump that delivers high feedback intensity. Each keystroke is accompanied by a palpable response that can be felt clearly, making it an attractive option for typists who enjoy the sensation of tactile switches. Therefore, while both switches bring unique tactile pleasures to the table, the Orange Sea emphasizes smoothness, whereas the U4Tx highlights prominent feedback.
In summary, both the Haimu Orange Sea and Gazzew U4Tx switches present distinct qualities that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Orange Sea is ideal for those who favor a smooth, quiet typing experience, while the U4Tx stands out for its refined sound profile and sharp tactile feedback, providing a more immersive and engaging typing experience. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to whether you prioritize a subtle sound and smoothness or prefer a richer audio experience combined with tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch should be guided by your personal preferences and intended usage. If you prioritize a smooth, understated typing experience with a light touch, the Orange Sea is an excellent choice. Its 45-gram bottom-out force makes it particularly suited for gaming or extended typing sessions, where you may appreciate the lack of resistance and a quieter sound profile. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile feedback with a distinct auditory pleasure during typing, the U4Tx switches are your go-to option. With a medium bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, these switches deliver a satisfying tactile bump along with a rich, deep “thock” sound that enhances the overall experience. They add a layer of satisfaction that many typists value, making them perfect for those who want that extra tactile feedback and auditory experience while typing or gaming. By considering how much feedback and sound you desire in your typing experience, you can make an informed decision that suits your style best.
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