Outemu Silent White vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent White and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences. The Outemu Silent White switch is best known for its silence, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switch is renowned for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, providing a more pronounced feedback with each keystroke. While the Silent White switch is categorized as quiet, the U4 switch falls under the categories of muted, low-pitched, and sharp. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials for the Outemu Silent White and Gazzew U4 switches offer different sound profiles due to their unique properties. The polycarbonate top housing of the Silent White creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the Gazzew U4's proprietary blend delivers a rich and deep sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing option. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent White produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer composition. Similarly, the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4 contributes to a rich and deep sound due to its softness.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Silent White offers a clear look that showcases the switch's internals, while the Gazzew U4's proprietary plastic blend provides a unique and visually appealing design. While both switches aim to deliver a satisfying sound experience for users, the materials used in their top and bottom housings result in distinct sound profiles. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Silent White emphasizes a fuller sound, while the Gazzew blend in the U4's bottom housing contributes to a deep and rich sound experience. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences when it comes to sound and feel.
When comparing the Outemu Silent White and Gazzew U4 switches, it's clear that the housing materials play a significant role in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience. The properties of polycarbonate and nylon in the Silent White contribute to a crisper, clearer sound profile, while the Gazzew blend in the U4 results in a rich and deep sound. Whether it's the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel from the bottom housing or the sound when releasing a key from the top housing, each material brings its unique characteristics to the overall performance of the switch. While both switches may offer similar results in terms of satisfying typing experiences, the differing housing materials provide users with options to tailor their preferences based on sound and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, we find that both switches have a similar actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Silent White has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the U4 has a bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the U4 is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. Users who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Silent White switch, as it allows for easier typing over long periods of time. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may prefer the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Gazzew U4 switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Silent White linear switch is 3.3 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Silent White offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the U4. A shorter travel distance can be beneficial for gamers seeking faster response times, while individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the U4 with its longer travel distance. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but if you are looking for a quicker key response, the Outemu Silent White may be the preferable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silent White 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 Silent White switch is known for producing a quiet typing experience, but specific descriptors are not available. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is described as having a muted and low-pitched sound profile. This means that the U4 will offer a softer and quieter typing experience compared to the Silent White switch, which may have a more standard mechanical keyboard sound.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silent White switch does not have specific descriptors available. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile bump, providing a high feedback intensity with a prominent and distinct feel with each keypress. This means that the U4 switch will offer a more tactile typing experience compared to the Silent White switch, which may have a smoother linear feel.
Overall, if you are looking for a quiet and plush typing experience, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a standard linear switch with a quieter sound profile, the Outemu Silent White switch could also be a good choice. Remember that the typing experience is also influenced by factors like the keyboard housing and keycaps, so make sure to consider those as well. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Silent White linear switch or the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, you should take into account your preference for sound and feel. If you value a quiet typing experience with a medium bottom out force and a linear feel, then the Silent White switch may be the right choice for you. However, if you enjoy a sharp tactile bump, a low-pitched and muted sound profile, and a slightly higher bottom out force, then the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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