Outemu Silent Grey vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Grey and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB both present compelling options for tactile feedback enthusiasts, but they cater to different preferences and needs. The Outemu Silent Grey switch is renowned for providing a quiet yet highly tactile typing experience, featuring a pronounced bump that allows for satisfying keystrokes without the noise, making it an ideal choice for office environments or shared spaces. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch boasts a unique combination of a deep "thock" sound with a smooth and stealthy top-out noise, delivering a luxurious feel and sharp tactile feedback that many gamers and typists find irresistible. While both switches promise an engaging typing experience, the choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize noiseless operation or a richer auditory experience. 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 Silent Grey Tactile

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$3.10 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The Outemu Silent Grey switches and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches showcase a notable contrast in their housing materials, particularly in the composition of their top housings. The Silent Grey utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate allows for a more resonant acoustic experience, making it ideal for capturing the brightness of keystrokes, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB employs a proprietary blend referred to as "boba plastic," which is softer than polycarbonate. This softness leads to a richer and deeper sound profile that resonates differently when keys are actuated. Thus, while the Silent Grey emphasizes sharper sound characteristics, the U4Tx RGB leans towards producing a fuller ambient auditory experience.

Examining the bottom housings of both switches reveals a similarity in design intention, yet they differ in their material make-up. The Silent Grey features a nylon bottom housing, traditional in mechanical switches and known for producing a fuller, deeper sound quality by absorbing sound more effectively due to its softness. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB employs the same proprietary "boba plastic" for its bottom housing, which also provides a rich sound profile. Consequently, although the materials are different, both switches aim to deliver a similar bottom-out sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. The combination of the bottom housing characteristics contributes significantly to the overall auditory feedback users experience during typing and key releases.

In summary, the differences in top housing materials between the Silent Grey and U4Tx RGB switches result in varied sound profiles during key actuations, while both switches share a common goal of delivering a satisfying auditory experience through their bottom housings. The Silent Grey's polycarbonate top provides a clear, high-pitched feedback, while the U4Tx RGB's "boba plastic" offers a deeper resonance, demonstrating how material choices can shape keyfeel and sound. Ultimately, the unique contributions of each housing material play a crucial role in achieving distinct yet complementary auditory experiences during typing, allowing users to select a switch that aligns with their personal preferences in both sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, notable differences arise in their actuation forces. The Silent Grey has a clear actuation force of 50 grams, while the U4Tx RGB doesn’t have a specified actuation force. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating that both will provide a substantial output upon fully pressing the key. In terms of weight preferences, the Silent Grey's specified actuation force makes it the lighter option for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, catering to users who type for extended periods or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. Conversely, the U4Tx RGB, with its absence of a specified actuation force, is less clear, but since it shares the same bottom out force, it may appeal to those who appreciate a heftier feel while typing due to the consistent bottom out pressure. Thus, while the Silent Grey offers a more defined typing experience with its lighter actuation force, the U4Tx RGB could attract users who favor a stronger feedback with its heavier bottom out feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Silent Grey has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option and suitable for those who appreciate a deeper keystroke and a more substantial tactile feedback. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to users who prefer quicker response times, particularly beneficial for gamers. This shorter distance may feel more abrupt, which might not appeal to everyone but can enhance efficiency in fast-paced scenarios. Therefore, those who value deeper, more rounded keystrokes should opt for the Silent Grey, while those who prioritize speed may find the U4Tx RGB more suitable.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Silent Grey switches are known for their quiet operation, making them ideal for environments where noise reduction is a priority. They produce minimal sound during both the pressing and bottoming out phases, allowing for a serene typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches offer a unique auditory profile characterized by a deep "thock" when bottoming out, combined with a quieter sound when topping out. This contrast gives the U4Tx switches a more luxurious and refined sound, although they still maintain a level of quietness that is well-suited for both office settings and personal use. Both switches provide a satisfying sound printed into their tactile character, but the U4Tx RGB offers more complexity in its acoustic feedback.

When considering feel, the Outemu Silent Grey switches boast a pronounced tactile bump that gives strong feedback to the typist without the accompanying noise often found in traditional tactile switches. This smooth keystroke provides a comfortable and satisfying tactile experience, encouraging longer typing sessions without fatigue. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches also deliver a sharp tactile bump, which heightens the luxurious feel as you type. Their blend of a heavy tactile feel and smoother action contributes to an enjoyable experience, especially when transitioning between different key presses. Although both switches excel in providing tactile feedback, the U4Tx RGB stands out for its plush, tactile refinement compared to the more straightforward approach of the Silent Grey.

In conclusion, both the Outemu Silent Grey and Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switches cater to different preferences while providing satisfying tactile feedback and a reasonably quiet experience. The Silent Grey excels in delivering a thoroughly quiet and simple tactile experience, which is perfect for those who prioritize silence alongside feedback. Meanwhile, the U4Tx RGB offers a more pronounced sound and feel profile, with the added complexity of a luxurious acoustics experience. Choosing between them ultimately depends on whether you value simplicity and muted sounds more highly than an enriched auditory feedback paired with a plush tactile sensation.

Conclusion

In summary, when choosing between the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, consider your specific typing environment and personal preferences. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump, the Silent Grey is your go-to option, making it ideal for office settings or shared spaces where noise reduction is crucial. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams will provide a satisfying tactile feedback without being overly loud or disruptive. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more luxurious feel and sound profile, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch might be a better fit. It combines a deep "thock" sound with a sharp tactile bump, making your typing enjoyable while still remaining relatively quiet. This switch is particularly suitable for those who value aesthetics, such as RGB lighting compatibility, and want a refined tactile experience without sacrificing performance. Ultimately, your choice should be guided by your environmental needs and tactile preferences, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard enhances your typing experience to the fullest.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Silent Grey Tactile

$3.10 per 10

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Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more