HMX SU vs. Gazzew U4Tx

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX SU and Gazzew U4Tx offer two distinct experiences tailored to different preferences and typing styles. The HMX SU, a linear switch, features a full PA12 housing paired with a T5 stem, delivering a subtly deep sound profile that many typists appreciate for its smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes. This switch is ideal for those seeking a quiet and fluid typing experience, making it a popular choice for both gamers and writers alike. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx is a tactile switch that marries the best of both worlds, showcasing a unique design that produces a clean and refined sound profile. With its pronounced tactile bump and a delightful "thock" sound that resonates upon bottoming out, the U4Tx provides a luxurious typing experience that is both acoustically pleasing and satisfying to the fingertips. While the HMX SU caters to those who prefer a seamless linear response, the U4Tx offers the gratification of tactile feedback and a rich auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that aligns with your personal preferences.

By the numbers

HMX SU Linear

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the HMX SU and the Gazzew U4Tx switches demonstrate both similarities and distinctions that affect their overall acoustic profiles. Both switches utilize nylon in their construction, with the SU featuring a straightforward nylon top and bottom housing, which is known for generating a deeper and fuller sound. The softer quality of nylon allows for better sound absorption, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary blend known as "boba plastic" for both the top and bottom housings. While the U4Tx's blend may introduce unique characteristics, its emphasis on softness is shared with the nylon used in the SU, allowing for a similarly rich and engaging sound profile.

When discussing the impact of each housing material on performance, it's essential to consider how their attributes contribute differently depending on whether they are in the top or bottom position of the switch. The nylon in the SU ensures that users experience a consistent profile, with both the top and bottom contributing equally to the switch's sound and feel. Meanwhile, the Gazzew U4Tx’s unique plastic blend is expected to yield comparable results in the auditory department, even though it diverges from standard nylon. This means that while the materials are different, the acoustic outcomes can still align closely due to their shared qualities of softness and sound absorption.

Ultimately, whether using the classic nylon of the HMX SU or the proprietary Gazzew blend of the U4Tx, users can anticipate a similarly gratifying typing experience. The essence of both materials provides a sound profile characterized by depth and richness, which is particularly dictated by the bottom housing during bottom-out moments and the top housing when releasing the key. Therefore, regardless of the specific material, the auditory and tactile sensations these switches provide can lead to comparable overall performance, appealing to users who prioritize acoustic quality in their typing experience.

Weight

The HMX SU linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The SU switch has a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter feel for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the U4Tx switch lacks a specified actuation force, but it has a noticeably heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams, which appeals to those who favor a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, while the SU is the lighter option overall, the U4Tx's heavier bottom out force may provide a firmer tactile feedback during typing. Therefore, for those who value a lighter switch for comfort, the SU would be the ideal choice, whereas those who enjoy a stronger push feel might gravitate towards the U4Tx.

Travel distance

Both the HMX SU linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, indicating that pressing either switch will result in a similar tactile experience as you press down on a key. Since their travel distances are equivalent, users can expect consistent performance in terms of key travel, which can be beneficial for those who value uniformity in their typing experience. As a result, whether you're using the HMX SU or the Gazzew U4Tx, you'll achieve similar results in terms of how far the switch travels from top to bottom.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The HMX SU linear switch produces a subtle and relatively deep sound profile, making it an excellent option for those who prefer a more understated auditory experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a pronounced sound with a blend of deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet stealth upon topping out. This unique dual aspect of the U4Tx combines bassy elements that provide a richer sound with a muted quality that significantly dampens the typical clattering associated with mechanical keyboards. As a result, while both switches aim for a pleasant typing sound, the SU leans towards a softer, more subdued tone, whereas the U4Tx delivers a more sophisticated and refined auditory signature.

Regarding feel, the HMX SU linear switch excels at providing a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback. This characteristic is favored by typists who appreciate unbroken gliding motion, allowing for seamless pressing of the keys. On the other hand, the U4Tx tactile switch is designed with a sharp tactile bump, offering high feedback intensity that gives a distinct and satisfying sensation with each keypress. The pronounced tactile feel of the U4Tx ensures that users can effortlessly recognize when the switch is activated, enhancing typing accuracy and enjoyment. Therefore, while the SU delivers a uniform and fluid keystroke, the U4Tx caters to those who revel in tactile feedback.

In summary, the HMX SU linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch provide distinctly different experiences in both sound and feel. The SU's deeper, muted sound contrasts with the U4Tx's refined, bassy auditory characteristics. Meanwhile, the SU offers a smooth and linear feel, while the U4Tx features a sharp and pronounced tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference, with the SU being suitable for users seeking a quieter and smoother typing experience, and the U4Tx appealing to those who value tactile feedback and a richer sound profile.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX SU linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch fundamentally hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a lighter switch with a subtly deeper sound profile, the HMX SU linear switch is likely to be your best bet. Its 50-gram actuation force offers a smooth experience, ideal for rapid typing or gaming, where speed and fluidity are paramount. However, if you appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback alongside a refined sound, the Gazzew U4Tx switch stands out with its heavier 62.5-gram force. The distinctive, sharp tactile bump of the U4Tx enriches your typing experience, making each key press feel more intentional and satisfying—a great choice for those who value both touch and acoustics. Ultimately, your selection should reflect what you find most enjoyable and effective during your time spent on your keyboard, whether that’s the subtlety of linear motion or the tactile satisfaction of a well-defined bump.

Mentioned in this article

HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more