Gateron Silent Ink Black vs. Gazzew U4T

Overview

The Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Gazzew U4T are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Silent Ink Black is a linear switch, known for its quieter typing experience and cushion-like bottom-out feel. It falls under the categories of 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T is a tactile switch that combines a bassy 'thock' sound profile with an assertive tactile feedback. It is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Thocky', and 'Sharp'. Both switches provide distinct advantages depending on individual preferences. If you are looking for a quieter typing experience with minimal audio feedback, the Gateron Silent Ink Black may be the ideal choice. However, if you enjoy a satisfying auditory and tactile experience with each keystroke, the Gazzew U4T may be the better option. 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 Silent Ink Black Linear

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Gazzew U4T switches bring different characteristics to the overall typing experience. The Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky, which may appeal to those who prefer a thinner and higher-pitched sound. In contrast, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, made from a soft "boba plastic," generates a richer and deeper sound, enhancing the typing experience with a more satisfying and robust sound profile.

Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the two switches also contribute distinct qualities. The Silent Ink Black's INK blend bottom housing shares the same pointed and high-pitched sound profile as its top housing, further emphasizing the clacky sound when the keys bottom out. On the other hand, the U4T's Gazzew blend bottom housing, also made from the soft "boba plastic," creates a different effect. Its softness allows for a smoother bottom-out sound, delivering a deeper pitch and a satisfying feel when typing.

It is important to note that while the top and bottom housings bring different characteristics to the switches, these qualities are split between the top and the bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing has a more pronounced impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, both the Silent Ink Black and the U4T will provide similar results in terms of the overall typing experience, albeit with different sound profiles depending on the specific blend of housing used.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Silent Ink Black has an actuation force of 60 grams, which means it requires a relatively light touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the U4T is unavailable, so we don't have specific information on this aspect. However, the bottom out force of the Silent Ink Black is 70 grams, indicating a slightly heavier feel when fully pressing the keys. On the other hand, the U4T has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is lighter compared to the Silent Ink Black.

Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Silent Ink Black, as its actuation force is on the lighter side. This can be advantageous for longer typing sessions, making it ideal for office use or extended gaming sessions. On the contrary, for individuals who desire a more substantial typing feel, the Silent Ink Black's heavier bottom out force may provide a preferable option. As for the U4T, although the actuation force is unknown, the lighter bottom out force of 62 grams suggests a more gentle keystroke experience overall.

In summary, the Silent Ink Black leans towards a medium-heavy weight category, with a lighter actuation force and slightly heavier bottom out force. In contrast, the U4T falls into the medium weight category, offering a potentially lighter overall keystroke experience. Both switches have their own merits and will provide similar results in terms of actuation, although the specific details of the U4T's actuation force remain unknown. Ultimately, individual preferences for a lighter or heavier typing feel will determine the more suitable choice.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer a similar tactile experience to users.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Silent Ink Black is known for its muted sound profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience. It minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making it an ideal choice for environments that require minimal audio feedback. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T provides a bassy 'thock' sound profile. It offers a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, it is described as having a satisfying thocky sound, producing a deep and soft knock when the key is pressed and released. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

As for feel, the Silent Ink Black is known for its silky and polished typing experience. It offers an exceptionally smooth feel, reducing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The switch has a refined finish, resulting in sleek and polished key travel. This smoothness can be attributed to the materials used and potential factory lubing. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T provides a sharp tactile feedback. It boasts a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with every key press. This intense feedback provides a satisfying and tactile typing experience.

Considering all the available information, the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Gazzew U4T offer distinct subjective qualities. The Silent Ink Black provides a cushion-like, pillow-like bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, making it ideal for quieter environments. On the other hand, the U4T combines thockiness with sharp tactility, offering auditory and tactile satisfaction with each keystroke. If you prefer a quieter switch, the Silent Ink Black is your best choice. If you value a stronger tactile bump and a deeper, bassy sound, the U4T is the way to go. Both switches provide unique experiences tailored to different preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a silenced switch that offers a quieter typing experience, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch would be a great choice. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, this switch provides a cushion-like bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback, making it ideal for environments that require quieter typing. On the other hand, if you prioritize auditory and tactile satisfaction, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch would be more suitable for you. With a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, the U4T switch combines a bassy "thock" sound profile with assertive tactile feedback, resulting in a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a quieter typing experience (Silent Ink Black) or a more satisfying sound and tactile feedback (U4T).

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more