Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Gazzew U4 offer distinct characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Dustproof Blue is best known for its clicky mechanism, providing a satisfying sound feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the U4 stands out for its tactile feedback, offering a gentle bump and a soft bottom-out experience. While the Dustproof Blue is categorized as a switch that provides a loud and crisp typing experience, the U4 is known for its muted, low-pitched sound profile. If you prefer an invigorating typing experience with audible feedback, the Dustproof Blue may be the suitable choice for you. However, if you value a quieter keyboard with a tactile bump, the Gazzew U4 could be the better option. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Dustproof Blue Clicky

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$3.10 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

One key difference between the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Gazzew U4 is the material used for their top housing. The Dustproof Blue utilizes polycarbonate, a stiff plastic known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience, especially when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. This results in a more muffled and rounder sound compared to the crispness of the polycarbonate used in the Dustproof Blue.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Dustproof Blue incorporates a nylon material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that is distinct from the sharper sound of the polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the Gazzew U4 also utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, which shares the same "boba plastic" characteristics as the top housing. This consistent material choice throughout the housing of the U4 results in a rich and deep sound profile that complements the softer typing experience provided by the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Blue.

Overall, the choice of housing materials greatly influences the sound profile and typing experience of a switch. While the Dustproof Blue and the Gazzew U4 both offer unique sound characteristics due to their top and bottom housing materials, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users. Whether you prefer the sharper and clear sound of the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Blue or the rich and deep sound of the Gazzew blend housing in the U4, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles.

Weight

The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch have differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Dustproof Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it slightly heavier than the U4, which has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile feedback, but the Dustproof Blue requires slightly more force for each keystroke. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the U4 for extended typing sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier actuation force of the Dustproof Blue for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.

Travel distance

The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Dustproof Blue has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the U4. The longer travel distance of the Dustproof Blue may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel when typing. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the U4 may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distance, so choosing between them will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is known for its traditional clicky sound that is satisfyingly loud and crisp. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is praised for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, providing a quieter typing experience that is perfect for those who prefer a more subtle auditory feedback. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so the choice between the two will ultimately come down to personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.

Moving on to feel, the Dustproof Blue switch is known for None, while the Gazzew U4 switch is highlighted for its sharp tactile feedback. The U4 switch provides a pronounced tactile bump that is highly satisfying to type on, giving users a clear and defined sensation with each key press. In contrast, the specific feel of the Dustproof Blue switch is not specified, so it may not offer the same level of tactile feedback as the U4 switch. Ultimately, the feel of a switch is a crucial factor in the typing experience, so users should consider their preferences for tactile feedback when choosing between these two switches.

In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer contrasting experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Dustproof Blue switch provides a loud and crisp clicky sound, which may be appealing to those who enjoy a more traditional mechanical keyboard sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switch offers a quieter and more refined sound profile with a sharp tactile feedback that is sure to please users who prefer a subtler typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.

Conclusion

Ultimately, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Dustproof Blue may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force that offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, as well as a whisper-quiet sound profile, then the Gazzew U4 may be more suitable for your typing preferences. Each switch has its own unique characteristics, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Dustproof Blue Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more