Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie vs. Gazzew U4T

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the options can be as diverse as the preferences of the users themselves. On one hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth operation and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience without the tactile bump that some typists prefer. This medium-weight all-POM switch strikes a balance between quality and affordability, making it an attractive option for both newcomers and seasoned keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T, a tactile switch, offers a unique blend of sharp tactility and bassy “thock” sound that enhances the typing experience with distinct feedback on each keystroke. Ideal for those who crave a more dynamic interaction with their keyboard, the U4T switches deliver auditory and tactile satisfaction in every press. While both switches have their merits—smoothness for the Gateron and tactility for the Gazzew—your choice will depend on your personal typing style and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Linear

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$3.00

$2.70 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and Gazzew U4T switches exhibit contrasting housing materials that influence their sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Sea Salt Smoothie utilizes POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housing. POM is known for its rigidity and durability, producing a sound that is relatively deeper and more muted compared to other materials. This creates a unique auditory experience that many users appreciate for its pleasing characteristics. The U4T, in contrast, features a proprietary blend of plastics described as "boba plastic," which is softer and contributes to a rich and deep sound profile. The differences in material—POM versus the boba blend—directly impact the overall acoustics and feel of these switches.

While both the Sea Salt Smoothie and U4T aim for a deeper sound profile, the materials used for housing lend distinct auditory qualities to each switch. With the POM housing of the Sea Salt Smoothie, users can expect a muted tone that offers a controlled sound experience, ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing environment. The U4T's boba plastic, on the other hand, provides a softer touch, allowing it to produce a richer sound. Even though both switches exhibit favorable characteristics for sound, the nuances stem from the inherent properties of the materials, where the POM provides a more refined yet less resonant sound compared to the full-bodied auditory presence of the boba plastic.

When it comes to the impact of the housing materials during use, the Sea Salt Smoothie's POM housings create a cohesive auditory experience, with both the top and bottom contributing to a uniformly muted sound. The U4T, conversely, showcases how the blend of materials allows the sound and tactile feel to diverge; the top housing primarily influences the sound during key release, while the softness of the bottom housing affects the bottom-out experience. If switched between the Sea Salt Smoothie and U4T, a user may find that they can achieve similar results in terms of deep sound, but the experience will vary based on the unique contributions of each housing material—the muted allure of POM in the Sea Salt Smoothie versus the rich soundscape produced by the softer boba plastic in the U4T.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, we find notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Sea Salt Smoothie has a stated actuation force of 48 grams, which makes it a lighter switch, suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions without excessive fatigue. However, its bottom out force is unknown, leaving a gap in understanding how much force is required when the switch is fully pressed down. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T features a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch, which may be favored by users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. The actuation force for the U4T, however, is unknown, preventing a direct comparison in that area. Therefore, while the Sea Salt Smoothie may allow for quicker and lighter keystrokes, the U4T offers a firmer resistance that some users may find more satisfying for touch feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for weight and tactile sensation, with the Sea Salt Smoothie being the lighter option and the U4T being favored by those who enjoy a heavier key feel.

Travel distance

The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch exhibit a difference in travel distance that may influence a user's typing experience. The Sea Salt Smoothie has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which is shorter than the U4T's travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the U4T more traditional, offering a deeper press that some users may appreciate for a more tactile feedback. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie’s shorter travel distance can cater to those who prioritize responsiveness, making it a potentially better fit for gamers seeking quick actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference; those who favor a more abrupt and snappy feel may opt for the Sea Salt Smoothie, while those who enjoy a more substantial depth of travel might prefer the Gazzew U4T.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switch delivers a thocky sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience with a satisfying resonance. This deep and rich sound not only contributes to an enjoyable auditory experience but also aligns well with the soft, muted ambiance that many users appreciate in mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switch features a bassy and thocky sound profile as well. The deeper, richer tones produced by the U4T emphasize its quality through a pronounced low-frequency sound that adds a layer of depth to each keystroke. The combination of thockiness in both switches signifies that users can expect a similarly pleasurable auditory experience irrespective of their choice, though the U4T may exhibit a slightly more robust bass character.

When it comes to feel, the Sea Salt Smoothie switch is noted for its exceptional smoothness, allowing for seamless transitions between keystrokes. This quality is particularly appealing to those who favor a linear switch, as it promotes a fluid typing experience without the interruption of tactile feedback. However, the tactile characteristics of the Gazzew U4T stand in stark contrast, as it is designed with sharp tactile feedback that delivers a distinct and crisp tactile bump. Users will experience a noticeable push at the actuation point, providing a more engaging and responsive typing experience. While the Sea Salt Smoothie focuses on smoothness, the U4T prioritizes tactile feedback, making the two switches distinctly different in feel.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie and Gazzew U4T switches present unique yet satisfying auditory and tactile experiences. If you prioritize sound, both switches offer a thocky acoustic quality that enhances the typing experience, with the U4T providing an additional bassy richness. On the other hand, when it comes to feel, the Sea Salt Smoothie shines with its smoothness, while the U4T delivers prominent tactile feedback. Choosing between them ultimately depends on whether you value a smooth typing experience or a tactile, engaging keystroke. Regardless of your choice, you can expect a high-quality switch experience from either option.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your typing preferences and what you value in your mechanical keyboard experience. If you favor a smooth, linear keystroke with a thocky sound profile that gives you a satisfying auditory feedback without a tactile bump, the Sea Salt Smoothie is an excellent choice. It’s particularly well-suited for gaming or fast-paced typing, where the absence of a tactile response can enhance your speed and efficiency. On the other hand, if you enjoy the satisfying feedback of a tactile switch that provides clear indications of actuation, the Gazzew U4T will cater perfectly to your needs. With its medium-heavy force and sharp tactile feedback, it excels in scenarios where precision in typing is paramount and the deeper, bassy thock adds to the overall enjoyment of the experience. Thus, both switches can fit distinct purposes; your choice will depend on whether you prioritize smoothness or tactile response in your keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Linear

$3.00

$2.70 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more