Gateron Quinn vs. Gazzew U4Tx

Overview

Introducing two remarkable mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Quinn and the Gazzew U4Tx. On one hand, the Quinn switches offer a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. With each keystroke, users are enveloped in a rich and immersive sound that adds a touch of character to the typing experience. The precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump further enhances the typing accuracy. On the other hand, the U4Tx switches marry the best of both worlds with a cleaner, refined sound profile. Typing on them produces the satisfying deep, resonant "thock" on bottoming out, while offering whisper-quiet stealth on topping out. The sharp and satisfying tactile bump ensures a luxurious typing experience that is both acoustically pleasing and tactile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Quinn Tactile

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$6.00

$5.50 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Quinn and the Gazzew U4Tx differ in terms of their housing materials. The Quinn features a nylon top housing, while the U4Tx has a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing. Both materials aim to create a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. However, the Quinn's nylon housing is described as absorbing more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the U4Tx's Gazzew blend, sometimes referred to as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While both materials have the goal of enhancing the sound experience, the specific qualities they bring may vary.

Similarly, the Quinn and the U4Tx also differ in terms of their bottom housing materials. The Quinn employs a nylon bottom housing, while the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing. These materials, like their top housing counterparts, aim to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The U4Tx's Gazzew blend, also known as "boba plastic," boasts a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become apparent in the bottom-out sound and feel. The difference in bottom housing materials allows for variation in the overall sound and tactile experience of these switches.

Alternatively, if the top and bottom housings of a switch are the same, such as both featuring nylon or Gazzew blend materials, the impact on the overall sound profile and typing experience will be more consistent across the board. Both the Quinn and the U4Tx housing materials mentioned, whether nylon or Gazzew blend, aim to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softness. Thus, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel when using switches with the same housing material for both the top and bottom components. The uniformity of the housing materials ensures a consistent typing experience overall.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, we find some similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Quinn is 59 grams, whereas the U4Tx's actuation force is currently unavailable. Both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Quinn having a force of 67 grams and the U4Tx having a force of 65 grams. In terms of weight, some users may prefer lighter switches like the Quinn for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force allows for easier keystrokes and reduces fatigue. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards switches with heavier forces. While the specific actuation force of the U4Tx is unknown, its medium-heavy bottom out force suggests that it may provide a similar typing experience to the Quinn. Therefore, the choice between these switches ultimately comes down to whether one prefers a known actuation force (59 grams for the Quinn) or is open to the U4Tx's potentially similar force.

Travel distance

The Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches have travel distances that fall within the range of traditional switch travel distances. Generally, a 4.0 mm travel distance is considered the most traditional and 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, the growing trend in the gaming community is towards shorter travel distances, as they are believed to provide faster response times. In this case, the Gateron Quinn would be the shorter option for those seeking a more responsive keystroke. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a switch with a deeper, more substantial feel, the Gazzew U4Tx, with its slightly longer travel distance, may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision depends on individual preferences and typing style, but both switches offer options for those seeking different levels of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is best known for its deep and resonant sound profile. The specially designed nylon housings of the Quinn switches create a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a rich, immersive sound. Each keystroke produces a clean and crisp tactile bump, accompanied by a bassy and clacky sound that adds character to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a refined and cleaner sound profile. While typing on the U4Tx, users can expect a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet stealth when topping out. The U4Tx provides a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, ensuring a luxurious typing experience that is as acoustically pleasing as it is tactile. Overall, both switches offer unique and enjoyable sound profiles, with the Quinn leaning towards a bassy and clacky sound, while the U4Tx provides a deep and refined "thock" accompanied by a quieter topping out sound.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. These switches are designed for a super responsive typing experience, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs that make each keystroke feel more alive. The Quinn switches also feature a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. They provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. The tactility of the Quinn switches is described as prominent but not overwhelming, providing a satisfying amount of feedback. They offer a seamless and effortless typing sensation, with a smooth and buttery feel that resembles gliding your fingers across the keys. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is described as having a sharp tactile bump. These switches are known for their high feedback intensity, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each and every keypress. Overall, the Quinn switch offers a wide range of tactile and smooth qualities, while the U4Tx switch focuses on a sharp and distinct tactile bump.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offer unique and desirable qualities. The Quinn provides a deep, resonant, and bassy sound profile along with a crisp tactile bump. It has a snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy feel that offers a seamless and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx offers a refined and cleaner sound profile, featuring a deep "thock" when bottoming out and a quiet topping out sound. It provides a sharp and satisfying tactile bump that is distinctly felt with each keypress. While the Quinn leans towards a more diverse and smooth feel, the U4Tx focuses on a sharp and intense tactile bump. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the deep and immersive sound of the Quinn or the refined and distinct sound of the U4Tx, both ensuring a luxurious and enjoyable typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Quinn tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you value a deep and resonant sound profile with a crisp and bright sound, the Quinn switches are a great choice. They offer a unique combination of light switch-like tactility and a rich, immersive sound that adds character to your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a cleaner, refined sound profile with a softer and quieter sound, the U4Tx switches are the way to go. They provide a deep and resonant "thock" when bottoming out, along with a whisper-quiet topping out sound. In terms of feel, the Quinn switches offer a snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy typing experience, while the U4Tx switches provide a sharp tactile bump with each keypress. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your preference for sound and feel, ensuring a luxurious and acoustically pleasing typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Quinn Tactile

$6.00

$5.50 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more