Everglide Rice Pudding vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB
An in-depth look at the Everglide Rice Pudding and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Everglide Rice Pudding and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Rice Pudding switches stand out for their smooth operation and deep sound, providing a balanced typing experience that's not only satisfying but also precise. This makes them an excellent choice for enthusiasts who value versatility, especially since they are fully compatible with Wooting's innovative keyboards. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches deliver a unique blend of the deep "thock" sound upon bottoming out and the quiet stealth of the topping out, which is paired with a sharp tactile bump. This combination offers a luxurious typing experience, favored by those who appreciate a tactile feedback along with an aesthetically pleasing acoustic profile. While both switches have their merits, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference for sound, feel, and compatibility. 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
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Custom stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Rice Pudding and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches exhibit distinct characteristics in their housing materials, particularly in their top housings. The Rice Pudding employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer structure. This feature enhances resonation and clarity, making it especially appealing for users who value bright acoustics in their typing experience. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend, often dubbed "boba plastic," which offers a softer feel and results in a deeper, more mellow sound profile. The choice of materials reflects a fundamental difference: while the Rice Pudding aims for bright auditory clarity, the U4Tx RGB emphasizes richness and warmth in sound.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, similarities emerge despite the differences in the top housing. The Rice Pudding incorporates a nylon bottom housing, a classic material known for absorbing sound, leading to a fuller and rounder typing experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx RGB’s bottom housing also features Gazzew's proprietary blend, aligning with its top housing's principles and thus maintaining a rich sound profile. Both materials are softer compared to alternatives like polycarbonate, allowing for similar auditory deepness and warmth. As the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, both switches would create a satisfying acoustic experience, even though they stem from different philosophies in their top housing.
Ultimately, the combination of these materials results in switches that cater to varying preferences while still yielding comparable outcomes in overall sound quality. Users seeking a crisper, higher-pitched response may prefer the Rice Pudding, especially when the switch is released. Conversely, those who enjoy a deep and rich auditory experience may gravitate towards the U4Tx RGB. Even with their contrasting top housings, both designs harmoniously balance their audible traits, showcasing how different materials can be used to achieve diverse yet compelling auditory results. For enthusiasts looking to experience similar qualities, carefully considering the roles of both top and bottom housings allows them to select the best switch for their typing style and auditory preference.
Weight
The Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch exhibit distinct differences in both actuation force and bottom out force, making them suitable for varying user preferences. The Rice Pudding switch features a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, providing a softer typing experience that is ideal for extended use during work or long gaming sessions. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB switch lacks a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 65 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. This heavier feel is preferred by users who favor a more substantial typing experience, enhancing the tactile feedback during keystrokes. Therefore, for those seeking a lighter and more effortless typing experience, the Everglide Rice Pudding is the favorable choice, while users looking for a firmer push should consider the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch.
Travel distance
The Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Rice Pudding switch the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that could be beneficial for gamers seeking quicker actuations. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB switch, with its greater travel distance, may offer a more pronounced tactile feedback for users who prefer a deeper keystroke. While both switches are relatively close in travel distances, those who appreciate a more subdued typing experience might gravitate toward the longer travel of the U4Tx RGB, while those who favor rapid key presses for gaming would likely prefer the shorter Rice Pudding switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Rice Pudding has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rice Pudding for $6.79.
The Gazzew U4Tx RGB comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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
The Everglide Rice Pudding switches are characterized by a deep and satisfying sound that resonates well during typing, making each keystroke feel impactful. This sound profile contributes to an immersive typing experience that many users find appealing, as it strikes a balance between being pronounced without being overly loud. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches offer a refined auditory experience with a distinct "thock" when bottoming out, complemented by a quieter sound during the topping out phase. This creates a dual-layered sound environment that appeals to those looking for a touch of elegance and subtlety in their typing interactions.
When it comes to feel, the Rice Pudding switches provide a smooth operation that facilitates fluid typing while maintaining precision and control. This makes them particularly satisfying for users who prioritize a seamless typing experience. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB switches feature a sharp tactile bump that enhances the tactile feedback during typing, adding an extra layer of engagement. The combination of this tactile response and the refined sound profile contributes to a luxurious overall feel that many typists may find highly desirable.
In summary, both the Everglide Rice Pudding and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Rice Pudding excels in delivering a smooth and deeply resonant sound, while the U4Tx offers a layered auditory experience with its "thock" sound and tactile bump. The Rice Pudding provides seamless operation, while the U4Tx enriches the typing experience with pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you prefer a smooth typing experience with deep acoustics or a tactile and refined auditory sensation during use. Both switches will likely yield enjoyable results, but based on your typing style and personal preferences, one may resonate more than the other.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch largely depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a lighter touch that allows for faster keystrokes, particularly suited for gaming or rapid typing tasks, then the Rice Pudding is an excellent option with its smooth operation and unique sound profile. Its compatibility with Wooting keyboards also makes it a versatile choice for enthusiasts who value performance. On the other hand, if you enjoy the tactile feedback of a firmer switch and desire a more premium auditory experience, the U4Tx RGB would be your go-to. With its satisfying "thock" sound and a strong tactile bump, it provides a luxurious typing experience that many users find rewarding, especially for heavy typists or those who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize a lighter, smoother actuation for speed or a firmer, more tactile experience for a satisfying touch.
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