Huano Sakura vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When considering the ideal mechanical keyboard switch to enhance your typing experience, both the Huano Sakura and Gazzew U4 offer unique qualities tailored to different preferences. The Sakura is a linear switch renowned for its feather-light touch and medium acoustics, making it an excellent choice for those who engage in long typing sessions, seeking a smooth and consistent keystroke without the distraction of a tactile bump. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 presents a tactile experience, characterized by a sharp and exhilarating bump paired with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation that brings a delightful feedback to each keystroke. With a whisper-quiet sound profile, the U4 is perfect for users who value silence while still enjoying the satisfaction of tactile feedback. While both switches offer distinct advantages, selecting between the two ultimately depends on your typing style and environment. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Huano Sakura Linear

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Huano Sakura and the Gazzew U4 switches utilize distinctly different materials for their top housings, leading to variations in tactile experience and sound profile. The Sakura features a POK (polyketone) top housing known for its smoothness, durability, and excellent shock resistance. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, it offers a tactile feel that is slightly smoother than nylon (0.03), making it one of the top contenders in the realm of switch materials. In contrast, the U4 incorporates a proprietary blend of plastic referred to as "boba plastic," which while also delivering a polished performance, emphasizes a softer feel that results in a rich, deep sound profile. This difference indicates that the Sakura's top housing may provide a more pronounced tactile feedback and durability, while the U4 aims for a unique auditory experience.

In terms of bottom housing materials, both switches take a different approach; however, notable similarities exist. The Sakura's nylon bottom housing is a classic choice, known for its sound-absorbing qualities that produce a fuller and rounder sound profile. Comparatively, the U4 employs the same proprietary "boba plastic" for its bottom housing, creating a similar depth and richness in sound. This parallel means that despite the contrasting materials used in their top housings, both switches can achieve comparable acoustic outcomes when pressed, with the bottom housing significantly influencing sound upon key release. This shared softness in bottom housing allows both switches to absorb sound effectively, creating a pleasant auditory experience.

Overall, the combination of different top housing materials with similar bottom housings illustrates how tactile feedback and sound profile can be influenced by the construction of mechanical switches. While the Sakura's POK top housing offers superior durability and a distinct feel, the Gazzew U4 leans into its proprietary blend, prioritizing auditory richness. However, because both switches utilize "boba plastic" in their bottom housings, they can parallel one another in producing a deep and fulfilling sound experience, creating an interesting study in how material choice can shape the nuanced dynamics of switch performance.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Sakura linear switch to the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Sakura switch features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it easier to press, which is ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming where speed is essential. In contrast, the U4 switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, giving it a more substantial feel that could appeal to users who prefer a heavier keypress for a more tactile typing experience. This means that for those who favor lighter switches for extended use, the Huano Sakura would be the optimal choice, whereas the Gazzew U4 would cater to individuals looking for greater resistance and feedback in their keystrokes.

Travel distance

The travel distance of both the Huano Sakura linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is identical at 3.6 mm, meaning that users will experience a similar tactile journey when pressing down on each key. This equal travel distance ensures that both switches will provide comparable key feel and responsiveness, making them suitable for individuals looking for uniform typing experiences. Since their travel distances are the same, either choice will yield the same results in terms of the distance traveled from the top to the bottom of the switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Huano Sakura switch offers medium acoustics, which makes it suitable for users who prefer a balanced auditory experience without overwhelming noise levels. The subtle sound profile allows users to type without drawing too much attention to themselves, making it ideal for both work and casual settings. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is characterized by its muted, low-pitched sound. This creates a softer auditory experience, significantly quieter than standard mechanical switches, which enhances its appeal for environments where discretion is important. Both switches provide a relatively quiet experience compared to more clacky alternatives, although the U4’s design prioritizes silence even further.

In terms of feel, the Sakura switch is known for its feather-light touch, making it particularly comfortable for extended typing sessions. Users can expect a smooth experience without considerable resistance, which may suit those who like to type quickly without fatigue. Conversely, the Gazzew U4 offers a sharp tactile bump that delivers noticeable feedback with each press. This tactile response adds an exhilarating dimension to the typing experience, allowing users to feel each keystroke distinctly. While the U4 boasts a plush bottom-out sensation, providing a comfortable landing with each keypress, the Sakura’s lighter touch could make it feel less substantial.

In summary, while the Huano Sakura linear switch is tailored for users seeking a lightweight and moderately audible typing experience, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch caters to those desiring pronounced tactile feedback and a whisper-quiet operation. Both switches have their unique strengths, appealing to different typing preferences. Choosing between them ultimately depends on whether you prioritize the smoothness and weightlessness of the Sakura or the sharp, tactile sensations of the U4.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Huano Sakura linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a lighter touch and engage in long typing sessions, the Sakura switch, with its 45-gram bottom-out force, will likely offer you a comfortable experience. Its medium acoustics complement an environment where a little noise is acceptable, but you still want to minimize disruption. On the other hand, if you desire a switch that provides a pronounced tactile feedback with a satisfying bump, the Gazzew U4 is the way to go. With a 62-gram bottom-out force, it caters well to those who appreciate a heavier, more deliberate keystroke while enjoying the benefits of a muted sound profile that keeps noise to a minimum. The U4's plush bottom-out sensation further enhances the typing experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a responsive feedback while typing. In essence, your choice should reflect whether you're looking for a softer and quieter keypress or a tactile feel with more resistance and pronounced feedback.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Sakura Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more