Outemu Spring Breeze vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Outemu Spring Breeze and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Spring Breeze and Gazzew U4T offer distinct experiences for users. The Spring Breeze is a clicky switch, known for its None, while the U4T is a tactile switch, celebrated for its harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. The Spring Breeze provides a satisfying click with each keystroke, perfect for those who enjoy audible feedback. On the other hand, the U4T offers a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback, appealing to those who seek a more tactile typing 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Spring Breeze and the Gazzew U4T, both switches use softer plastics in their housing materials to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The Spring Breeze utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T features a proprietary plastic blend known as "boba plastic" for both its top and bottom housing, delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In terms of sound, both switches offer similar characteristics due to their softer housing materials.
Despite both switches utilizing softer plastic housing materials, there are subtle differences between the Outemu Spring Breeze and the Gazzew U4T. The Spring Breeze's nylon top housing is specifically noted for creating a deeper sound profile when typing, whereas the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing is praised for its rich and deep sound profile. Additionally, the bottom housing of each switch plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of typing. The Spring Breeze's nylon bottom housing and the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing contribute to the tactile feedback and bottom-out sound of each switch, creating distinct typing experiences.
While both the Outemu Spring Breeze and the Gazzew U4T share similarities in their use of softer plastic housing materials, the specific characteristics of each housing material result in unique typing experiences. The Spring Breeze's nylon top and bottom housing offer a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder sound, while the Gazzew U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing provide a rich and deep sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as both offer high-quality typing experiences with their softer housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch differ in weight. The Spring Breeze has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. In contrast, the U4T has an unknown actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Spring Breeze may be the better option. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may gravitate towards the Gazzew U4T. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on whether a lighter or heavier force is preferred for typing.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. As a result, the typing experience between the two switches will be similar in terms of the distance the keys travel when pressed. Both switches offer a standard travel distance, making them suitable choices for those who prefer a consistent typing experience in that regard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Spring Breeze 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 Spring Breeze clicky switch does not have a specific sound profile that it is known for. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is characterized as having a bassy 'thock' sound profile. This means that the U4T offers a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound is further enhanced by its thocky nature, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound with each keystroke.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch does not have a specific tactile feel that it is known for. Conversely, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is recognized for its sharp tactile feedback. This means that the U4T provides a high feedback intensity with a strong and crisp tactile bump that is distinctly felt with every keypress. The sharp tactility of the U4T enhances the typing experience by providing a satisfying tactile response.
Overall, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offers a unique combination of bassy thocky sound profile and sharp tactile feedback, making it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a satisfying auditory and tactile experience. While the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch may not have specific sound and feel characteristics that it is known for, both switches can deliver a pleasurable typing experience depending on personal preference and usage scenarios. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for sound and feel, as well as the overall typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, you should consider the bottom out force preference you have. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, the Spring Breeze with 55 grams might be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, the U4T with 65 grams could be more suitable. Additionally, if you are looking for switches with a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, the U4T might be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter and possibly lighter switch, the Spring Breeze could be a better fit. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
