Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Gazzew U4 both offer unique features to enhance your typing experience. The Dustproof Brown is best known for its durability, ensuring a longer lifespan for the switch. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 stands out for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, as well as a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. While the Dustproof Brown may appeal to those looking for a reliable and long-lasting switch, the U4 is perfect for those seeking a tactile switch with a quieter sound profile. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Gazzew U4 differ in terms of their housing materials. The Dustproof Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the U4 utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," to create a rich and deep sound profile. While the Dustproof Brown's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for those seeking a clear and resonant sound with RGB lighting benefits, the U4's Gazzew blend top housing provides a softer and deeper sound experience.
In contrast, the housing materials for the bottom housing of the switches vary as well. The Dustproof Brown incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softness and sound absorption qualities. Similarly, the U4 utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing to deliver a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Both bottom housing materials contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches, with nylon offering a duller and rounder sound, while the Gazzew blend provides a softer and deeper sound experience.
Overall, the top and bottom housings of the switches play a significant role in the sound profile and feel of each key press. While the Dustproof Brown and the Gazzew U4 may have differing housing materials, the qualities brought by each material ultimately influence the typing experience in unique ways. Whether it's the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the Dustproof Brown or the rich and deep sound of the Gazzew blend top housing in the U4, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Dustproof Brown has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the U4 has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that while both switches will require the same amount of force to initiate a keystroke, the Dustproof Brown will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to the higher bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of typing or gaming, the Gazzew U4 would be the better choice. On the other hand, those looking for a more solid and heavier typing feel may find the Outemu Dustproof Brown more suitable for their preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile 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 Gazzew U4 has a shorter travel distance compared to the Outemu Dustproof Brown. The shorter travel distance of the Gazzew U4 may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Brown may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer different typing experiences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof Brown comes in at $3.10, whereas the Gazzew U4 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 Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer distinct qualities. The Dustproof Brown is known for a lack of notable sound characteristics, whereas the U4 is praised for its muted and low-pitched sound profile. This means that typing on the U4 will result in a quieter and more soothing typing experience compared to the Dustproof Brown, which may appeal to users who prefer a quieter keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Brown does not have any specific descriptors provided, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switch is characterized as having a sharp tactile bump that provides high feedback intensity. This means that users can expect a pronounced and satisfying tactile sensation with each keypress when using the U4 switch.
Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Brown and Gazzew U4 tactile switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dustproof Brown may provide a more standard typing experience without any standout features, the U4 stands out for its quieter sound profile and sharp tactile bump. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the two switches to tailor their typing experience to suit their needs and preferences. You will get different typing experiences with each switch, but both options offer quality tactile feedback for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more traditional typing experience, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a plush bottom-out sensation, the Gazzew U4 switch is the way to go. Additionally, if you prioritize a whisper quiet sound profile with a muted and low-pitched tone, the U4 switch would be more suited for your needs. Ultimately, consider your preferences in terms of typing feel, sound, and bottom out force when deciding between these two switches.
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