Outemu Crystal Brown vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Gazzew U4T mechanical keyboard switches, one can see that each offers its own unique features and benefits. The Crystal Brown is known for its smooth actuation, while the U4T stands out for its harmonious fusion of sharp tactility and thocky sound profile. The Crystal Brown is categorized as a tactile switch, whereas the U4T is categorized as bassy, thocky, and sharp. Both switches offer tactile feedback, but the U4T provides a more pronounced and satisfying tactile experience with its bassy thock sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Gazzew U4T, we can see that both switches offer unique characteristics. The Crystal Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the U4T's softer Gazzew blend. The translucency of the polycarbonate top housing also makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. On the other hand, the U4T's Gazzew blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, creating a different typing experience altogether.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Crystal Brown utilizes a nylon material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and less sharp sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also provides a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In this aspect, both switches offer a similar typing experience with their soft bottom housings.
In terms of overall typing experience, the housing materials of both switches play a crucial role in the sound and feel of the switch. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings allow for a balance of impact on both the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key. While the Crystal Brown offers a sharper and clearer sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Gazzew U4T provides a rich and deep sound profile with its proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housings. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, we can see a notable difference in their weight characteristics. The Crystal Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lower bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light in comparison to the U4T's heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. The U4T, on the other hand, does not have a specified actuation force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Crystal Brown more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, while the U4T would cater to individuals seeking a more robust and substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is clear that they both provide a similar tactile experience for users. Pressing down on either switch will result in the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom, allowing for consistent feedback and typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a standard travel distance of 4 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal Brown comes in at $3.10, whereas the Gazzew U4T 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
The Outemu Crystal Brown switch is known for its undefined qualities, while the Gazzew U4T switch is praised for its unique combination of bassy 'thock' sound profile and sharp tactile feedback. When it comes to sound, the Crystal Brown lacks a specific descriptor, making it challenging to directly compare with the U4T's bassy and thocky characteristics. The U4T's sound profile offers a deeper and richer tone during key presses, resulting in a satisfying auditory experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Crystal Brown switch doesn't have a defined tactile descriptor, making it harder to gauge its tactile feedback compared to the U4T's sharp tactility. The U4T switch is characterized by its intense and crisp tactile bump, providing a distinct and pronounced tactile response with every keypress. This sharp tactile feedback enhances the typing experience, allowing for increased accuracy and satisfaction for tactile switch enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal Brown and Gazzew U4T switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crystal Brown's characteristics are undefined, the U4T switch stands out for its bassy 'thock' sound profile and sharp tactile feedback. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the U4T offering a harmonious fusion of deep auditory tones and assertive tactile feedback. Ultimately, with the right combination of keyboard, keycaps, and personal preference, you can achieve similar levels of satisfaction from either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force, opt for the Crystal Brown at 55 grams, but if you prefer a slightly heavier feel, the U4T at 65 grams may be more to your liking. The Crystal Brown is known for its medium-light feel with a balanced tactile feedback, while the U4T is praised for its harmonious blend of deep bassy sound and sharp tactile bump. If you enjoy a deeper and richer sound profile with stronger tactile feedback, the U4T is the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for pressure sensitivity, sound, and tactile feedback.
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