Outemu Phoenix vs. Gazzew U4T

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are endless options to choose from, each offering unique characteristics that cater to specific preferences. Two popular choices in the market are the Outemu Phoenix and the Gazzew U4T switches. The Phoenix is a clicky switch that stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, delivering a one-of-a-kind clicky experience. With a crystalline and sparkling type feel and sound profile, it offers a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T is a tactile switch that combines thockiness and sharp tactility, providing a bassy 'thock' sound profile along with a satisfying tactile feedback. While the Phoenix is categorized as crunchy, polished, the U4T falls under bassy, thocky, sharp. Overall, both switches have their own unique advantages, offering auditory and tactile satisfaction. 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 Phoenix Clicky

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$4.15 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The Outemu Phoenix and the Gazzew U4T differ in terms of their housing materials. The Phoenix features a polycarbonate top housing, while the U4T utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing. The polycarbonate material in the Phoenix creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's relatively stiffer nature, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Gazzew blend top housing in the U4T, also known as "boba plastic," provides a rich and deep sound profile. This is attributed to its softness, which adds a certain depth to the sound.

In terms of their bottom housings, the Phoenix again features a polycarbonate material, while the U4T has a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing. Similar to the top housing, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Phoenix contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is primarily because the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the Gazzew blend bottom housing in the U4T, also referred to as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the tactile experience when pressing down on the switch.

While the housing materials differ between the Phoenix and the U4T, it is worth noting that both switches aim to provide distinct sound profiles. The polycarbonate materials in the top and bottom housing of the Phoenix contribute to a sharper and crisper sound, while the proprietary Gazzew blend in the top and bottom housing of the U4T add richness and depth to the sound. Therefore, even though the materials differ, both switches can produce high-quality sound profiles. The specific choice between the two would depend on personal preference and desired aesthetics, such as the use of RGB lighting.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is important to note that the available information for both switches only provides the bottom out force, which is 62 grams for both. Therefore, it can be inferred that the actuation force is also unavailable for both switches. While the weight is not specified, it is worth mentioning that some users prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others prefer a heavier switch for a more substantial typing experience. In this case, since both switches have the same bottom out force, one can expect similar results in terms of the push feel during typing or gaming.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is clear that the Phoenix has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the U4T has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The 4.0mm travel distance of the U4T falls within the range of the traditional travel distance, offering a more standard typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix with its shorter 3.3 mm travel distance caters more towards gamers and those seeking faster response times. A shorter travel distance can provide a more responsive feel when pressing down on the keys. It is worth mentioning that some individuals may find the shorter travel distance of the Phoenix to be too abrupt, while others may prefer the hearty depth offered by the U4T's longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is well-known for its unique click mechanism, providing a crystalline and sparkling sound profile. These switches create a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offers a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. These switches produce a bassy 'thock' sound, characterized by a lower frequency range similar to the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the U4Ts provide assertive tactile feedback, giving a distinct satisfaction with every keystroke.

In terms of feel, the Phoenix switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel of these switches contribute to their polished feel. Conversely, the U4T tactile switch has a sharp tactile bump that provides a high feedback intensity. With each keypress, the crisp and strong tactile bump can be distinctly felt.

Considering the available information, it is clear that the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Phoenix provides a unique and sparkling sound profile, while the U4T produces a bassy 'thock' sound. Similarly, the Phoenix offers a polished feel with reduced friction, while the U4T provides a sharp and distinct tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound and feel in their mechanical keyboard. However, regardless of the choice, both switches promise auditory and tactile satisfaction.

Conclusion

In closing, when considering the choice between the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there are a few factors to consider. If you prioritize a unique and distinctive clicky experience with a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile, the Phoenix switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a combination of thockiness and strong tactile feedback, the U4T switch would be more appealing. When it comes to sound, the Phoenix switch offers a crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves, while the U4T switch provides a bassy and thocky sound profile. Lastly, in terms of feel, the Phoenix switch offers a polished and smooth typing experience, while the U4T switch delivers a sharp and intense tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for clickiness, sound, and feel. Consider what aspects are most important to you and select the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Phoenix Clicky

$4.15 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more