Huano Strawberry Latte vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly affect your typing experience, and two popular options are the Huano Strawberry Latte and the Gazzew U4. The Strawberry Latte is a linear switch recognized for its super smooth keystrokes, benefiting from the latest molds by Huano that deliver a balanced sound profile—neither too quiet nor excessively resonant. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prefer a smooth, uninterrupted typing experience without tactile bumps. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 stands out as a tactile switch offering a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, complemented by a surprisingly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. Its whisper-quiet sound profile enriches the experience for those who appreciate tactile feedback while maintaining a subdued auditory footprint. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Strawberry Latte for those who value smoothness and quiet operation, while the U4 appeals to users who enjoy tactile feedback without the noise. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Strawberry Latte Linear

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The Huano Strawberry Latte and Gazzew U4 switches exhibit distinct characteristics in their housing materials, particularly in their top housings. The Strawberry Latte utilizes POK, or polyketone, known for its low friction and durability. This material not only offers a smooth typing experience with a coefficient of friction of 0.04 but also boasts impressive wear resistance and shock absorption capabilities. In comparison, the Gazzew U4 features a proprietary blend of plastics that, while unspecified, is noted for its softness. This softness contributes to a rich sound profile, differentiating it from the stronger and slightly harsher characteristics of the POK material. While both switches aim to create a smooth feel, the unique properties of their top housings may lead to differing tactile experiences, with the POK providing a more pronounced “clack” and the Gazzew blend yielding a deeper, plush sound.

Conversely, when examining the bottom housings of both switches, we observe a closer alignment in sound characteristics. Both the Strawberry Latte and U4 utilize materials that prioritize softness; the Strawberry Latte employs nylon, a classic switch housing material known for contributing a deep and rounded audio profile. The Gazzew U4’s proprietary blend serves a similar purpose, enhancing sound absorption and fostering a fuller auditory experience. Given that both switches utilize softer plastics in their bottom housings, it can be expected that both will deliver a comparable bottom-out sound, enabling a satisfying typing experience that resonates well with users who appreciate auditory feedback.

Ultimately, the blending of differing materials for the top and bottom housings in both switches creates a distinctive character for each. While each switch uses a different composition for the top housing, the softer nature of the bottom materials allows for an overlap in how the switches deliver sound and tactile feedback. Therefore, users can achieve similar results in terms of acoustic qualities despite the varying top housing materials. The combination of these factors ensures that both the Huano Strawberry Latte and Gazzew U4 will provide unique yet defined typing experiences, where users can appreciate both their individuality and similarities.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Strawberry Latte features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an ideal choice for those seeking comfort during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the U4 has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, the Huano Strawberry Latte is the lighter option, while the Gazzew U4 is the heavier one. Ultimately, if you're looking for a switch that allows for quick, effortless keystrokes, the lighter actuation of the Strawberry Latte will suit you better; however, if you're after a firmer feel, the U4 is the way to go.

Travel distance

The travel distance of both the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is identical at 3.6 mm, meaning both switches will provide the same feel when pressed down. This similarity in travel distance indicates that users can expect comparable button responsiveness and key actuation with either switch. As both switches have the same travel distance, they will yield similar typing experiences in terms of depth and feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch presents a balanced audio profile that strikes a comfortable middle ground—neither overly quiet nor excessively resonant. This makes it suitable for various environments, allowing for a pleasant typing experience without drawing too much attention. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch takes a different approach with its muted sound quality, offering a whisper-quiet operation that significantly minimizes the typical mechanical keyboard noise. The U4’s low-pitched sound delivers a mellow, bass-heavy tone, which enhances the serene typing experience without sacrificing feedback. So, while both switches focus on maintaining a pleasant auditory environment, the U4 excels in quietness, whereas the Strawberry Latte provides a more pronounced, yet still moderate, sound.

When it comes to feel, the Huano Strawberry Latte's characteristics are not specified; however, the Gazzew U4 is renowned for its sharp tactile feedback. The U4 boasts a strong and crisp tactile bump, offering high feedback intensity that enthusiasts often seek. This lets typists distinctly feel each press, enhancing the overall typing experience and allowing for better typing precision. Although the details of the Strawberry Latte's feel were not provided, it's common for linear switches like it to offer a smoothness that contrasts the tactile feedback provided by the U4. Therefore, users might find that while the Strawberry Latte delivers a smooth action, the U4 engages users with its pronounced tactile sensation.

In conclusion, both the Huano Strawberry Latte and Gazzew U4 switches cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Strawberry Latte offers a balanced sound profile that provides a pleasant auditory experience without overwhelming noise, while the U4 prioritizes a whisper-quiet environment coupled with sharp tactile feedback. Each switch excels in its own domain, allowing users to choose based on their specific needs, whether they prioritize sound levels or tactile feel.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you plan to use your keyboard. If you favor a smoother and lighter typing experience, where quick, uninterrupted keystrokes are essential—perhaps for gaming or fast-paced typing—the Strawberry Latte's 45-gram bottom-out force and its super smooth action would be ideal. This switch offers a balanced sound profile that will not overwhelm you or those around you, making it suitable for office settings or shared spaces. On the other hand, if you enjoy a pronounced tactile feel and a satisfying bottom-out sensation, the Gazzew U4 is your go-to option. With its higher 62-gram force and sharp tactile bump, it provides excellent feedback, ideal for typists who appreciate clear resistance and tactile confirmation with each keystroke. The U4's muted, low-pitched sound profile also makes it an excellent choice for quiet environments where noise reduction is a priority. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize smoothness and speed with the Strawberry Latte or tactile response and subtlety with the Gazzew U4.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Strawberry Latte Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more