Huano Strawberry Latte vs. Gazzew U4T

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Strawberry Latte and the Gazzew U4T offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Strawberry Latte, a linear switch, is celebrated for its ultra-smooth feel and balanced sound profile; it strikes an ideal blend between noticeable feedback and understated resonance, making it a strong choice for those who prefer swift keystrokes without interruption. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T, a tactile switch, boasts a captivating thocky sound with sharp tactile feedback that enhances each keystroke, providing a gratifying auditory and tactile experience for users who appreciate pronounced feedback in their typing. While the Strawberry Latte caters to enthusiasts seeking a sleek, linear action, the U4T appeals to those who thrive on tactile responses and rich soundscapes. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Strawberry Latte Linear

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials used in the Huano Strawberry Latte and the Gazzew U4T switches exhibit distinct characteristics that shape their acoustic profiles and tactile feedback. The Strawberry Latte employs a POK material for its top housing, which offers a low coefficient of friction of 0.04, contributing to a smooth keypress experience. In contrast, the U4T features a proprietary plastic blend known colloquially as "boba plastic" for its top housing, which emphasizes a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While both materials are designed to enhance the overall smoothness and sound quality of the switches, the Strawberry Latte’s POK material is noted for its exceptional durability, being 14 times stronger than POM, whereas the Gazzew blend prioritizes auditory richness.

When examining the bottom housing, both switches utilize unique materials that share a common goal of delivering an immersive sound experience. The Strawberry Latte uses nylon for its bottom housing, which is a traditional choice known for its ability to absorb sound, thus creating a fuller and deeper auditory profile. Conversely, the Gazzew U4T utilizes the same proprietary Gazzew blend for its bottom housing, which, like the top housing, is designed to provide a soft touch and rich sound. The synergy between the soft materials in both switches implies that, despite the differences in specific materials, the ultimate sound signature and tactile experience may exhibit notable similarities since both prioritize a deeper auditory experience.

The interaction between the top and bottom housings in both the Strawberry Latte and U4T contributes to distinct typing experiences while also revealing how housing materials influence sound and feel. In terms of acoustic performance, the Gazzew U4T's consistent material usage — across both the top and bottom housings — ensures an even sound signature, while the Strawberry Latte’s varied materials may create more pronounced differences between the keystrokes’ audible feedback upon pressing and releasing a key. Nevertheless, both switch designs capitalize on the qualities of their respective materials to create smooth performances, suggesting that users can still achieve comparable auditory satisfaction across both options.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Strawberry Latte features a light actuation force of 35 grams, making it easier to type for extended periods, which is ideal for both work and long gaming sessions. In contrast, the U4T switch does not have a specified actuation force, but it does have a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, suggesting a more substantial feel when the key is fully pressed down. This makes the U4T more suitable for users who prefer a firmer resistance when typing. Therefore, the Huano Strawberry Latte is the lighter option with a lower actuation and bottom out force, while the Gazzew U4T switch offers a heavier and firmer typing experience. The differences in weight can significantly influence user preference, depending on whether a lighter or heavier switch is desired.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there is a clear distinction: the Strawberry Latte has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the U4T measures slightly longer at 4 mm. This difference highlights a preference for those who enjoy a more responsive typing experience, as the shorter travel distance of the Strawberry Latte may appeal more to gamers seeking quicker key presses. Conversely, the U4T's 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper and more pronounced feel, which can be more satisfying for users who prefer a substantial tactile feedback in their typing. Ultimately, if you lean towards faster response times, the Strawberry Latte's shorter distance may be the choice for you, whereas if you value a more traditional, hearty depth, the U4T could better suit your needs.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch produces a balanced sound profile; it strikes a comfortable middle ground that is neither overwhelmingly loud nor overly muted. This makes it suitable for environments where subtlety is preferred. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch stands out with its strong thocky sound, which is bassy and rich. The deep thud of the U4T creates an engaging auditory experience that many typists find satisfying, adding a layer of acoustic pleasure to typing. However, it's important to remember that the overall sound can also depend on factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Strawberry Latte linear switch is prized for its remarkable smoothness, providing a seamless typing experience without any tactile bumps to interrupt the flow of keystrokes. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a fluid motion without tactile feedback. On the other hand, the U4T tactile switch is characterized by a sharp tactile bump that provides high feedback intensity. Each keystroke delivers a crisp and distinct response, making it well-suited for typists who enjoy the physical sensation of a pronounced tactile feel with every press.

Overall, both switches cater to different typing experiences. The Huano Strawberry Latte offers a smooth and balanced auditory sensation, making it ideal for quieter environments and those who prefer linear switches. Conversely, the Gazzew U4T's thocky sound and sharp tactile feedback cater to users who enjoy a more engaging typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference regarding sound acoustics and the kind of tactile feel you desire in your mechanical keyboard.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it's essential to consider your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a smooth typing experience with a lighter actuation force—ideal for fast typists or those who require less finger fatigue during long typing sessions—the Strawberry Latte is an excellent choice. Its balanced sound profile ensures a pleasant auditory environment without being overly loud or resonant. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more engaging tactile experience that offers pronounced feedback with each keystroke, the Gazzew U4T is more suited to your needs. Its medium-heavy actuation force is perfect for typists who appreciate the satisfaction of a tactile bump, and its thocky sound profile adds a rich auditory element that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on whether you favor the linear smoothness of the Strawberry Latte or the tactile richness of the U4T.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Strawberry Latte Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more