Jwick Semi-Silent Linear vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from. Two popular choices are the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, a linear switch, and the Gazzew U4, a tactile switch. The Semi-Silent Linear is best known for its innovative design and unique sound profile. With a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound, this switch offers a balance between quietness and tactility. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 stands out for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, providing typists with a satisfying feedback. Additionally, its plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation adds a touch of luxury to the typing experience. Both switches offer their own distinct advantages, 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Gazzew U4 differ in terms of their composition and the sound profiles they produce. The top housing of the Semi-Silent Linear is made of polycarbonate, a relatively stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This translucent material is particularly useful for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," offers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While the polycarbonate provides a more clear and resonant sound, the Gazzew blend delivers a deeper and fuller sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Semi-Silent Linear utilizes a nylon material. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This "boba plastic" also contributes to a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Therefore, while the materials differ, both the nylon bottom housing and the Gazzew blend bottom housing aim to enhance the overall sound experience of the switches.
Considering the overall impact of the housing materials, the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in producing sound. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are more pronounced, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that the nylon bottom housing of the Semi-Silent Linear and the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4 will contribute to a similar experience of deeper and fuller sound when pressing the keys. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound. Thus, the polycarbonate top housing of the Semi-Silent Linear will produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound upon key release, while the Gazzew blend top housing offers a rich and deep sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch unfortunately has an unavailable measurement, while the Gazzew U4 switch has an actuation force of 43 grams. Although the specific force for the Jwick switch is unknown, it can be speculated that it may fall within a similar range as the Gazzew switch since they are both considered medium force switches.
Moving on to the bottom out force, both switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that when fully pressed down, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and Gazzew U4 switches offer a similar level of resistance, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a more substantial push feel.
Considering the weight aspect, it is important to note that the paragraph does not provide any information regarding the weight of either switch. Therefore, it is uncertain whether one switch is lighter or heavier than the other. However, when it comes to typing for extended periods or engaging in long gaming sessions, lighter switches are generally preferred as they allow for more comfortable and fatigue-free typing. On the other hand, some individuals may prefer the heavier force of a switch for a more deliberate and precise typing experience.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is unavailable, it can be assumed to be within a similar range as the Gazzew U4 switch based on both being classified as medium force switches. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a satisfying level of resistance when fully pressed down. The weight of the switches is not specified, but it is worth considering personal preferences and use cases when selecting between a lighter or heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and Gazzew U4 tactile switches have slightly different travel distances. The Semi-Silent Linear has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the U4 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel when typing or gaming, the U4 with its slightly shorter travel distance may be the better option for you. However, some individuals find that shorter travel distances can feel too abrupt or lacking in depth. If you prefer a more substantial key press and a greater sense of depth, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the level of responsiveness desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
The Gazzew U4 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
In terms of sound, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a subdued and neutral sound profile. It produces a dampened sound when pressed, making it quieter than most switches. However, it still maintains a subtle sound signature compared to others. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch produces a muted and low-pitched sound. It is designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards and offers a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches aim for a quieter typing experience, but the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear provides a more subtle and neutral sound, while the Gazzew U4 offers a softer and low-pitched sound.
When it comes to feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a mild, snappy, buttery, and polished typing experience. It provides a gentle typing experience with its mild characteristics, making it approachable for most users. The switch is also super responsive, thanks to its snappy nature, which gives a more alive feeling while typing. Its buttery and polished attributes indicate a smooth and effortless keystroke experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is best known for its sharp tactile bump. It offers a high feedback intensity with a prominent and distinct tactile bump felt with each keypress. Overall, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch focuses on providing a smooth and refined typing experience, while the Gazzew U4 offers a sharper tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and Gazzew U4 switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a more subdued and neutral sound compared to the muted and low-pitched sound of the U4 switch. When it comes to feel, the Semi-Silent Linear offers a mild, snappy, buttery, and polished typing experience, while the U4 offers a sharp and distinct tactile bump. Depending on personal preferences, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles. However, if you are looking for a quieter typing experience, both switches can provide similar results while offering their own distinct feel.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and a subdued sound profile, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear would be a great choice. It offers a whisper-quiet topping-out sound combined with a clacky bottom-out sound, providing a unique and innovative typing experience. Furthermore, its type feel is silky smooth, making it a pleasure to use. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, along with a plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is the way to go. Its sound profile is whisper quiet and it offers a distinct and intense tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to your preference for sound and feel. Whether you prioritize a more subdued and smooth typing experience or a sharp and tactile feedback, both switches have their own advantages and are worth considering.
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