Outemu Silent Grey vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Grey and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Silent Grey and the Gazzew U4T are two popular choices among enthusiasts. The Outemu Silent Grey switch is praised for its quiet and highly tactile typing experience, boasting a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke that caters to those who value satisfaction and silence in their typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T stands out for its unique blend of thockiness and sharp tactility, delivering a bassy 'thock' sound profile alongside assertive tactile feedback that offers both auditory and tactile satisfaction. While each switch offers its own set of features and benefits, delving deeper into their specifics will help you make an informed decision on which switch suits your typing preferences the best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.60 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 Outemu Silent Grey and the Gazzew U4T switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Grey provides a sharp, high-pitched sound profile, while the Gazzew U4T's proprietary blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. These differences in material lead to distinct auditory experiences for users. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Silent Grey allows for RGB lighting effects, adding a visual element to the switch's performance.
On the other hand, both switches feature a bottom housing made of a softer material that helps absorb sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of the Silent Grey and the proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4T both contribute to a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material results in a similar feel and sound profile when typing on either switch, emphasizing a luxurious typing experience for users.
In terms of functionality, the differences in top and bottom housing materials play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of each switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when keys are pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when keys are released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings allows for a nuanced typing experience, with each switch offering a unique combination of sharpness, depth, and softness in sound profile. Ultimately, users will have to consider their personal preferences for sound and feel when choosing between the Outemu Silent Grey and the Gazzew U4T switches.
Weight
The Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while its bottom out force is 65 grams. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch does not have a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 65 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category. In terms of weight, both switches have a similar bottom out force, providing a substantial typing experience. However, the Silent Grey is lighter when it comes to actuation force compared to the U4T, which may attract users looking for a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is the same, both measuring at 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the user will experience a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a standard travel distance, providing consistent feedback and actuation for the user. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, making them equally suitable for those who prefer a standard tactile switch experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silent Grey 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 comparing the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, the sound profile of the Silent Grey is quiet and smooth, providing a satisfying typing experience without the noise. On the other hand, the U4T offers a bassy 'thock' sound that is deep and rich, enhancing the auditory feedback with each keystroke. While both switches aim to provide tactile satisfaction, the Silent Grey focuses on a quiet and tactile experience, while the U4T emphasizes a more pronounced and assertive tactile feedback.
Regarding the feel of the switches, the Silent Grey provides a smooth keystroke with a pronounced tactile bump, offering a satisfying typing experience. In comparison, the U4T is characterized by a sharp and intense tactile bump, providing a distinct and crisp feedback with every keypress. The sharp tactility of the U4T enhances the typing experience for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile response.
Overall, when considering the sound and feel of the Outemu Silent Grey and the Gazzew U4T switches, it is evident that they cater to different preferences. The Silent Grey excels in providing a quiet and smooth typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump, while the U4T stands out with its bassy 'thock' sound and sharp tactile feedback. Depending on whether you prioritize a quiet typing experience or a more assertive tactile feedback, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you prioritize a quiet and smooth typing experience with pronounced tactile feedback, the Silent Grey would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more bassy and assertive tactile feedback with a deep thock sound profile, the U4T would be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, so choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences.
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