Outemu Red vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Red linear switch to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, one can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Red switch is best known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, making it ideal for fast typists and gamers seeking uninterrupted typing or gaming experiences. On the other hand, the U4T switch is celebrated for its unique blend of 'thocky' sound profile and sharp tactility, offering users a satisfying auditory and tactile feedback with each key press. While the Red switch falls under the category of a linear switch, providing straightforward key presses, the U4T switch is categorized as a tactile switch, offering a more pronounced bump during actuation. 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
46g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
The housing materials of the Outemu Red and Gazzew U4T switches offer distinct characteristics that affect the sound profile and feel of the switches. The Red's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that resonates clearly, especially when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing produces a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, giving a different auditory experience to the user. Both materials contribute to enhancing the overall typing experience but in different ways, with the polycarbonate offering a crisper sound and the Gazzew blend providing a deeper tone.
On the other hand, the Red's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switch. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that complements the sharper sound from the polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness, creating a harmonious balance with the top housing material. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of their top and bottom housing materials.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches plays a significant role in determining the typing feel and sound profile of the switch. While the Outemu Red and Gazzew U4T switches have different housing materials in their top and bottom components, each material contributes to the overall typing experience in a distinctive way. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Red or the softer Gazzew blend of the U4T, both switches offer a unique feel and sound that cater to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, understanding the characteristics of housing materials can help users choose a switch that aligns with their desired typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Red requires 62 grams, while the U4T needs 65 grams, making it slightly heavier. Both switches fall in the medium range in terms of actuation force, but the U4T leans towards the medium-heavy side when it comes to bottom out force. Users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Outemu Red, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Gazzew U4T. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches offer a different typing experience that caters to varying preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience a consistent distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, the overall feel and feedback of keypresses will be similar for both switches. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, there is no distinction between the two switches, making them equally suitable options for keyboard enthusiasts who prioritize consistency in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Red 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Red linear switch is known for not having any specific sound characteristic associated with it. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is praised for its unique combination of being bassy and thocky. The bassy nature of the U4T provides a deeper and richer sound profile, while the thockiness adds a satisfyingly deep and soft thud to each key press. This harmonious blend creates a keyboard experience that is not only tactile but also acoustically pleasing.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Red linear switch does not have any specific feel descriptor, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback. Sharp tactile switches like the U4T offer a high feedback intensity, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that is distinctly felt with every keystroke. This sharp tactility adds a level of precision and satisfaction to typing or gaming sessions, enhancing the overall user experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a silent operation, the Red might be more suitable for you. However, if you enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback with a harmonious blend of bassy and thocky sound profile, the U4T would be a great choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, as both can deliver an exceptional typing or gaming experience based on your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly lighter actuation force, then the Outemu Red with 62 grams may be a better fit for you. However, if you enjoy a slightly heavier actuation force, the Gazzew U4T with 65 grams may be more to your liking. Additionally, if you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a harmonious blend of thocky sound and sharp tactility, the Gazzew U4T would be the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific feel and sound profile you are seeking in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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