Outemu Silver vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silver and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, it's essential to consider the differences between the Outemu Silver, a linear switch, and the Gazzew U4, a tactile switch. The Silver is best known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation, making it a popular choice for fast typists and gamers. On the other hand, the U4 stands out for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing experience with a quiet sound profile. While the Silver offers a straightforward linear feel, the U4's tactile feedback adds a layer of responsiveness that some users prefer. 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
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Silver and Gazzew U4 switches both showcase unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Silver's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiff nature that promotes clear and resonant tones. In contrast, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While the Silver's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for switches featuring RGB lighting due to its translucency, the U4's top housing adds a soft and deep character to the sound produced.
In terms of bottom housing material, the Silver utilizes nylon which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing mirrors the top housing's rich and deep sound profile, further enhancing the overall sound experience of the switch. Both switches demonstrate how the choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the sound profile of key presses, adding depth and character to the typing experience.
Overall, the combination of housing materials in both the Outemu Silver and Gazzew U4 switches leads to unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Silver's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp and clear sound, the U4's Gazzew blend top housing offers a rich and deep tone. Similarly, the use of nylon in the Silver's bottom housing results in a fuller sound profile, while the U4's bottom housing complements the top housing to deliver a cohesive and enjoyable typing experience. Whether it's the polycarbonate and nylon in the Silver or the Gazzew blend in the U4, both switches showcase how housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Outemu Silver has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Gazzew U4 has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 62 grams. This makes the Gazzew U4 tactile switch the lighter option overall. The actuation force is crucial in determining the sensitivity of the keystroke, while the bottom out force affects the overall typing experience. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Gazzew U4 for extended typing sessions, while others may find the heavier bottom out force of the Outemu Silver more satisfying for a substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements during keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, we can see that the Silver has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the U4 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the U4 has a shorter travel distance, making it slightly quicker to actuate compared to the Silver. The Silver, on the other hand, offers a bit more depth with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether you prefer a faster response time or more depth in your typing experience. Both switches offer unique advantages, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you in a keyboard switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silver 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 Silver switch is not particularly known for any specific sound profile, making it a versatile option for those who prefer a neutral sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is praised for its muted and low-pitched sound, providing a quieter typing experience that is gentle on the ears. The U4's whisper-quiet operation combined with its sharp tactile bump creates a unique and satisfying typing sound that is sure to please users looking for a more subtle auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silver switch lacks a distinct description of its tactile feedback. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 switch is known for its sharp tactile bump that provides a high feedback intensity. This pronounced tactile feedback allows users to feel a crisp and prominent bump with every keypress, enhancing the typing experience and providing a satisfying feeling of key actuation. For users who enjoy a tactile typing experience, the U4 switch offers a unique and responsive feel that sets it apart from other switches on the market.
Taking all of this information into account, it is clear that the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer distinct advantages in terms of sound and feel. While the Silver switch provides a neutral sound profile and lacks a specific tactile description, the U4 switch stands out with its muted sound and sharp tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound and feel during typing. Whether opting for the Silver switch's versatility or the U4 switch's unique tactile feedback, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with both switches.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it really comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a linear feel and don't mind a bit more noise, the Silver may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a sharp and intense tactile bump with a quieter sound profile, the U4 switch is the way to go. Consider how you type, whether you prioritize sound or feel, and what aesthetics you prefer when making your decision. Both switches have their own unique strengths, so choose the one that best suits your typing needs and preferences. Happy typing!
Mentioned in this article
