SP-Star Duck vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Duck and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the SP-Star Duck and the Gazzew U4Tx. The Duck switches are known for providing a more subtle tactile typing experience, offering a gentle tactility and a clean and crispy sound profile. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Buttery', and 'Polished', these switches are ideal for those seeking a refined and smooth typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches combine the best of both worlds, featuring a unique design that produces a cleaner and more refined sound profile. With a deep and resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out, these switches provide a sharp and satisfying tactile bump for a luxurious typing experience. Categorized as 'Bassy', 'Muted', and 'Sharp', the U4Tx switches deliver an acoustically pleasing and tactile sensation. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Duck and the Gazzew U4Tx differ significantly. The Duck features a polycarbonate top housing, while the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing dubbed "boba plastic." The polycarbonate top housing of the Duck creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its relatively stiffer plastic provides a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the U4Tx's "boba plastic" delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. These distinct material properties result in unique auditory experiences for users of each switch.
The differences in bottom housing are also noteworthy. The Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing, like its top housing, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its stiffness enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch sound. On the other hand, the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing. Although it shares the same "boba plastic" composition as the top housing, its impact on the sound when bottoming out is more pronounced. The U4Tx's bottom housing adds depth and richness to the sound experience when typing.
When comparing the two switches, it is evident that the top and bottom housings have a significant influence on each's sound production. While the Duck's polycarbonate housings contribute to a sharper and crisper sound overall, the U4Tx's Gazzew blend housings create a rich and deep sound experience. Whether it is the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound or the top housing's effect when releasing a key, each switch offers distinct auditory characteristics. However, if the user's primary concern is RGB lighting, both switches benefit from the translucency of their respective top housings, allowing for stunning lighting effects.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force for both switches is not available, but the bottom out force for the Duck is 58 grams, which is considered medium, while the U4Tx has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is classified as medium-heavy. In terms of weight, this means that the U4Tx is heavier than the Duck.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Duck may be a better option as it allows for longer typing periods, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. However, if someone is looking for a more substantial and stronger push feel, the heavier bottom out force of the U4Tx would provide a more satisfying typing experience.
Though we do not have the exact actuation force for either switch, if both switches have similar actuation forces, users can expect similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on one's personal preference for the weight and feel of the keystrokes.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch refers to the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. In the case of the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered to be the standard or traditional distance. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm.
For those who prefer a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the U4Tx switch may be desirable. It allows for faster response times, which can be particularly advantageous for gamers or individuals who require quick keystrokes. However, it is worth noting that some people may find shorter travel distances to be somewhat abrupt or lacking in depth.
In contrast, the Duck switch with its longer travel distance of 4 mm may be favored by those who appreciate a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing the keys. This additional travel distance can provide a sense of satisfaction and tactile feedback that some individuals find more satisfying.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch will depend on individual preferences. If you prefer a shorter travel distance and quicker response times, the U4Tx switch may be the better option for you. However, if you value a deeper and more substantial keystroke, the Duck switch with its longer travel distance would be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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
When it comes to sound, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is best known for its clean and crispy sound profile. It offers a neutral sound, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a bassy and muted sound profile. The U4T part of the switch provides a deep and resonant "thock" sound when bottoming out, reminiscent of bass tones, while the U4 part of the switch ensures a whisper-quiet sound when topping out. Overall, the U4Tx switch delivers a refined sound profile that combines the best of both worlds. It offers a sharp and satisfying tactile bump with each press, ensuring a luxurious typing experience that is as acoustically pleasing as it is tactile. Please note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as your choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch provides a mild and buttery typing experience. The mild characteristic offers a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced features. The sound and feel of this switch are approachable to most users, as its qualities all stand in a safe and middle-ground zone. Additionally, the buttery characteristic implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, allowing for seamless and effortless typing. The switch also has a polished finish, further enhancing the smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback. The tactile bump of this switch is strong and crisp, providing a high feedback intensity that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. This gives users a precise and satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Duck switch provides a clean and crispy sound profile with a gentle tactility, making it suitable for those who prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience. Its feel is mild, buttery, and polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx switch combines a bassy and muted sound profile with a sharp tactile feedback. This switch delivers a luxurious typing experience that is acoustically pleasing and precise. Depending on your preferences, you can choose the Duck switch for a more neutral and approachable experience or the U4Tx switch for a refined and pronounced typing experience. Regardless of your choice, both switches promise a satisfying and enjoyable typing journey.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you're looking for a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is perfect for you. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, it offers a medium actuation force suitable for most purposes. The Duck switch provides a mild, buttery, and polished feel, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a sharper tactile bump and a richer, bassy sound profile, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is the ideal choice. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, it offers a medium-heavy actuation force for those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback intensity. The U4Tx switch combines the deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out with a whisper-quiet topping out sound, resulting in a luxurious typing experience.
Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize a cleaner and more subtle tactile experience, go for the Duck switch. If you prefer a sharper feedback and a richer sound, opt for the U4Tx switch. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that will enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
