Gateron Silent Ink Black vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Gazzew U4Tx. The Silent Ink Black switch is ideal for those who need a quieter typing experience, making it perfect for environments where minimal noise is necessary. With its cushion-like bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, this switch offers a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches combine the best of both worlds by providing a cleaner, refined sound profile. With a deep and resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet stealth when topping out, these switches offer a unique acoustic experience. Additionally, the U4Tx provides a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, ensuring a luxurious typing experience. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision about which switch is best suited for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Gazzew U4Tx differ in their housing materials, resulting in contrasting sound profiles. The Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. In contrast, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," creates a rich and deep sound due to its softness. While both switches offer satisfying sound profiles, the Silent Ink Black is characterized by a sharper and more pronounced tone, while the U4Tx provides a smoother and deeper sound experience.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the two switches contribute to their overall feel and sound. The Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend offers a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that adds to the clacky feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, known as "boba plastic," provides a softness that results in a more cushioned and muffled bottom-out sound. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the tactile feedback and sound when pressing the keys, and these differences in housing materials contribute to the unique characteristics of each switch.
Although the top and bottom housings differ between the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Gazzew U4Tx, they both offer distinct sound profiles. The top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing affects the sound and feel while pressing down. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their proprietary housing blends. Whether you prefer the clacky and pointed sound of the Silent Ink Black or the rich and deep tones of the U4Tx, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, the Silent Ink Black is slightly heavier. This may be advantageous for those seeking a more substantial typing experience, as the stronger push feel provides a satisfying feedback. However, for individuals who prefer a lighter switch, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch may be more suitable. While the actuation force for the U4Tx is unavailable, it is important to note that both switches possess medium-heavy bottom out forces, with the Silent Ink Black measuring at 70 grams and the U4Tx at 65 grams. In terms of actuation force, where the Silent Ink Black requires 60 grams, the U4Tx's force remains unknown. Therefore, while the Silent Ink Black provides specific weight measurements, finding similar results with the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch will depend on personal preference and potentially trial and error.
Travel distance
The Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Silent Ink Black has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the U4Tx. A 4.0 mm travel distance is considered more traditional, providing a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the U4Tx with its shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm offers a more shallow experience. This shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers who value faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the U4Tx with its shorter travel distance would be the ideal choice. However, if you enjoy a deeper and more substantial keypress, the Silent Ink Black and its slightly longer travel distance would be the better option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
The Gazzew U4Tx 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 Gateron Silent Ink Black is best known for its muted sound profile. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. The Silent Ink Black switches minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making them ideal for environments that require quieter typing. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer a bassy sound profile. This means that they have a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, both switches are described as muted, so they minimize noise output. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches provide quieter typing experiences, but the Silent Ink Black focuses more on a softer and pillow-like bottom-out feel, while the U4Tx offers a deeper and more resonant "thock" sound when bottoming out.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Silent Ink Black offers a silky and polished typing experience. A silky switch refers to a switch that provides an exceptionally smooth typing feel, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the Silent Ink Black is described as polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish resulting in sleek key travel and reduced friction. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches provide a sharp tactile experience. These switches are known for their high feedback intensity, offering a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. While the Silent Ink Black prioritizes smoothness and a polished feel, the U4Tx focuses more on delivering a satisfying tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Ink Black provides a muted sound with a cushy, pillow-like bottom-out feel and a silky, polished typing experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx offers a bassy sound with a resonating "thock" and a sharp tactile bump, ensuring a luxurious typing experience that's both acoustically pleasing and tactile. While they have distinct characteristics, they both aim to provide a quieter typing experience. It's important to consider personal preferences when choosing between the two switches, as well as factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, which can influence the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a quieter typing experience and prioritize a cushioned bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch would be a great choice for you. It has a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 70 grams and offers a muted sound profile. The Silent Ink Black is also known for its silky and polished feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction.
On the other hand, if you prefer a cleaner and refined sound profile that combines a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sound, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is an excellent option. With a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams, the U4Tx offers a bassy sound characterized by a lower frequency range. It also provides a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, ensuring a luxurious typing experience that's both acoustically pleasing and tactile.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Gazzew U4Tx will depend on your preference for sound and feel. If you prioritize a quieter and cushioned typing experience, go for the Silent Ink Black. If you prefer a cleaner sound profile with a sharp tactile bump, opt for the U4Tx. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience. In the end, it's important to consider your personal preferences and typing needs when making a decision.
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