Gateron Smoothie Silver vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB exemplifies the diverse characteristics that can enhance your typing experience. The Smoothie Silver stands out as a linear switch, celebrated for its all-POM construction and short travel distance, resulting in lightning-fast actuation and a feather-light touch. This switch is ideal for gamers and typists seeking unparalleled smoothness and a satisfying "thocky" sound, making each keystroke responsive yet subtle. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is a tactile switch that marries a prominent tactile bump with a refined sound profile, delivering the deep "thock" of bottoming out while still maintaining a quieter topping out experience. This makes it perfect for those who appreciate the satisfying feedback of tactile switches without the noise that often accompanies them. While both switches offer unique benefits tailored to different preferences—whether speed and smoothness or tactile feedback and sound refinement—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Smoothie Silver Linear

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, notable distinctions emerge in their composition and the resultant sound profiles they create. The Smoothie Silver utilizes POM (polyoxymethylene) for both the top and bottom housing, which is renowned for producing a deeper, more muted sound that is often appreciated by users seeking a unique auditory experience. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB employs a proprietary blend of plastics often referred to as "boba plastic." This composition is specifically designed to generate a rich and deep sound, attributed largely to its softness and elasticity. While both switches aim to deliver a satisfying auditory feedback, the materials used invoke varied acoustic characteristics that can influence how users perceive each switch’s performance.

Despite the different materials used in their constructions, both the Smoothie Silver and the U4Tx RGB leverage the strengths of their respective housings to provide pleasing sound profiles. The Smoothie Silver's POM housings create a muted and deeper audio experience, which may appeal to users who prefer a less aggressive sound during both key presses and releases. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB aims for a fuller auditory engagement with its boba plastic blend that enhances the overall sound profile. However, because both materials are designed to enhance acoustic properties, users may find similarities in the richness and depth of sounds produced, albeit delivered through different mechanisms.

Another factor to consider is how the housing materials impact the switch's feel and sound during operation. The bottom housing, primarily affecting the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, plays a significant role in user experience for both switches. In this regard, the POM housing of the Smoothie Silver and the softer boba plastic of the U4Tx RGB are engineered to deliver distinct tactile and auditory sensations that contribute to their appeal. Therefore, while the materials differ, the ultimate experience for the user may converge in how each switch’s acoustic properties meld during action. Users may appreciate that, despite the differences in material, both switches can yield a pleasant and unique auditory feedback that enhances their typing or gaming experiences.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, there is a noteworthy difference in their force characteristics. The Smoothie Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter and potentially more suitable for users who prefer a switch that requires less force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, the bottom out force for the Smoothie Silver is unavailable, which limits our ability to fully compare this aspect. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB has an unknown actuation force but features a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that some users may favor for a richer typing experience. Consequently, those seeking a lighter switch experience would lean towards the Gateron Smoothie Silver, while those who prefer a heavier and more resistant feel would likely opt for the Gazzew U4Tx RGB. Overall, these switches cater to different preferences, with one offering a lighter touch and the other a firmer response at bottom out.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Smoothie Silver offers a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the U4Tx RGB has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference suggests that the U4Tx RGB may provide a more substantial tactile feedback experience, appealing to those who prefer a deeper key press. Conversely, the Smoothie Silver's shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm may be more suited for gamers seeking quicker response times and a more responsive feel. While both switches cater to different preferences, if you prioritize a punchy typing experience, the Smoothie Silver would be the preferable choice, whereas the U4Tx RGB caters to those who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is known for its thocky sound profile that delivers a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke, making it enjoyable for those who appreciate a deep resonance without the clackiness typical of other linear switches. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch provides a distinct sound with its combination of deep "thock" when bottoming out alongside a quieter topping out, which gives it a refined and harmonious sound profile that maintains a level of stealthiness. Both switches produce unique sound signatures that may vary based on the choice of keyboard, plate material, and keycap style, but they each contribute to a pleasurable typing ambiance in their own right.

When it comes to feel, the Smoothie Silver is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness and feather-light touch, allowing for incredibly quick actuation that is particularly appealing to gamers and typists alike who prefer less resistance and a swift typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB features a sharp tactile bump, providing a satisfying feedback upon actuation. This tactile sensation adds a luxurious dimension to typing, allowing for precise control and enhanced tactile awareness that can be especially rewarding during long typing sessions. While both switches offer enjoyable feel characteristics, they cater to different preferences—smoothness versus tactile feedback.

Overall, if you're weighing the Gateron Smoothie Silver against the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, your choice will primarily depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback. The Smoothie Silvers excel in delivering a smooth and quick typing experience with a satisfying thocky sound, while the U4Tx RGB switches provide a refined auditory experience paired with a pronounced tactile bump. Depending on your typing style—be it for gaming or general use—either switch could contribute to a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience, so consider trying both to determine what resonates with you the most.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize speed and smoothness, especially for gaming, the Smoothie Silver is an excellent choice. Its feather-light touch and short travel distance facilitate rapid keystrokes, making it perfect for fast-paced gaming sessions where reaction time is crucial. Moreover, if you enjoy the sound of a thocky tone and want a switch that feels sleek and effortless, the Smoothie Silver will likely meet your needs. On the other hand, if you prefer a satisfying tactile experience coupled with a quieter sound profile, the U4Tx RGB is the way to go. With its medium-heavy bottom-out force and distinct tactile bump, it provides a more deliberate typing experience that's ideal for typing long documents or coding, where feedback on each key press is essential. Its refined sound profile further enhances the luxurious feel, making each keystroke a pleasure. Ultimately, consider whether you lean more towards gaming or typing, and let that guide your selection of these exceptional switches.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Smoothie Silver Linear

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more