Outemu Tom vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Tom and Gazzew U4Tx both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Tom switch is best known for its responsiveness, while the U4Tx switch stands out for marrying the best of both worlds with a refined sound profile. The U4Tx provides a luxurious typing experience with a sharp, satisfying tactile bump and a unique combination of deep, resonant thock when bottoming out and whisper-quiet topping out. The Tom switch may be preferred for those looking for a more pronounced tactile feedback, while the U4Tx switch may appeal to users seeking a bassy, muted, or sharp typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Tom and the Gazzew U4Tx both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Tom's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound profile. Despite their differences, both materials are known for their quality and are commonly used in switches designed for RGB lighting due to their translucency. The polycarbonate top housing of the Tom creates a more resonant sound, while the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4Tx offers a softer and deeper sound profile.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Tom features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Both housing materials offer unique qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience of each switch. The softness of the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4Tx and the nylon bottom housing of the Tom both play a role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Tom and the Gazzew U4Tx comes down to personal preference and the desired sound profile. While the Tom's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound. Similarly, both switches feature bottom housing materials that contribute to a deep and full sound profile, with the U4Tx's Gazzew blend bottom housing offering a unique typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with the Tom or a softer sound with the U4Tx, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is clear that they have different characteristics in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Tom has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams, while the U4Tx's actuation force is unknown. On the other hand, the U4Tx has a heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams, while the bottom out force of the Tom is unavailable. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Outemu Tom may be the more suitable option due to its lighter actuation force. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Gazzew U4Tx with its heavier bottom out force may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm. In this case, the Gazzew U4Tx has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Outemu Tom. The 0.3mm may not seem like much, but it can make a noticeable difference in the feel of the switch. The Outemu Tom may feel snappier and more responsive due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and cushioned typing experience, making it a better choice for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Tom comes in at $3.10, whereas the Gazzew U4Tx 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 quality, the Outemu Tom tactile switch is known for being relatively neutral in terms of sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is renowned for its unique blend of a bassy and muted sound. This combination results in a deeper and richer tone during key presses, while also minimizing the overall noise output of the switch. Depending on your preference, the U4Tx switches may provide a more satisfying auditory experience compared to the Tom switches.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Tom doesn't have a specific tactile descriptor provided. However, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switches are known for their sharp tactile feedback. This means that each keypress on the U4Tx switches will result in a distinct and prominent tactile bump, providing a satisfying and responsive typing experience. If you value a strong and crisp tactile feedback in your switches, the U4Tx switches may be more suited to your preferences compared to the Tom switches.
In conclusion, the Outemu Tom and Gazzew U4Tx tactile switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Tom switches provide a neutral sound profile and have an unspecified tactile feel, while the U4Tx switches deliver a unique blend of bassy and muted sound along with a sharp tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch. As always, it's important to consider other factors such as keycap material, typing style, and keyboard layout when choosing the right switch for your setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a light bottom out force and a sound profile that is not too loud, the Outemu Tom tactile switch may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, a unique sound profile that combines deep bass tones with quiet operation, and a sharp tactile bump with each keypress, then the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch would be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, so make sure to consider what matters most to you when choosing between the two.
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