HMX Sunset Gleam vs. Gazzew U4Tx

Overview

When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to the desired typing experience, and two prominent options in the market are the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Gazzew U4Tx. The HMX Sunset Gleam, a linear switch, is celebrated for its unique design that delivers a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack, enhanced by HMX’s renowned factory lubrication. This makes it an excellent choice for users who appreciate a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke ideal for both gaming and typing. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx offers a tactile experience, skillfully blending a deep, resonant "thock" sound when bottoming out with a whisper-quiet exit on each keypress. The sharp tactile bump provides an engaging feedback that can enhance productivity while maintaining a pleasing acoustic profile. Choosing between the Sunset Gleam and the U4Tx ultimately hinges on your preference for a linear or tactile feel, but both offer distinctive benefits for different typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Gazzew U4Tx switches, the distinctions in sound profile and material composition stand out prominently. The Sunset Gleam features a polycarbonate top housing, which renders a sharper and crisper sound due to the stiffness of the material. This quality allows sound waves to resonate clearly, making it particularly suitable for RGB lighting as it enhances the visual experience. Conversely, the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary blend known as "boba plastic" for its top housing. While it may not achieve the same level of crispness as the polycarbonate, it offers a softer sound profile that leans towards depth and richness. The differing properties of these top housings mean that the auditory experience of typing on these switches can vary significantly, with the Sunset Gleam providing more high-pitched clarity while the U4Tx leans towards a deep and warm sound.

Moving to the bottom housings, the materials used have similarities that influence both the acoustic experience and feel of the switches. The Sunset Gleam employs a nylon bottom housing, known for its softer characteristics that contribute to a deeper sound profile. This choice naturally absorbs more sound, resulting in a mellower, rounder auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the U4Tx’s bottom housing also features the proprietary “boba plastic,” designed for softness and producing a similarly rich sound profile. This alignment in softness between the bottom housings means that both switches will deliver a fuller sound upon bottoming out. Thus, while their top housings differ in material composition and resultant sound profiles, the bottom components complement each other by absorbing sound effectively.

Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housings influences the overall performance and aesthetic of each switch. While the Sunset Gleam's polycarbonate top contributes to a clear and more resonant release sound, the matte nylon bottom ensures a more subdued bottoming-out experience. In contrast, the U4Tx finds a balance through the use of its “boba plastic” in both top and bottom housings, yielding a cohesive sound that emphasizes depth and richness throughout the keystroke. If users are looking to achieve a specific sound profile, adjusting the housing configuration by employing a mix of materials can provide a tailored auditory experience. Therefore, while the switches provide different auditory results due to the nuances in their top housings, they share foundational attributes within their bottom constructions that can lead to similar outcomes in terms of sound absorption and tactile feel.

Weight

The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch present a notable contrast, particularly in their tactile experiences. The Sunset Gleam features a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a suitable option for users who prefer prolonged typing sessions without as much strain. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx, which has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, offers a heavier typing experience, though its actuation force remains unspecified. This suggests that users of the U4Tx may enjoy a more substantial push feel, catering to those who favor a firmer switch. Consequently, the Sunset Gleam is the lighter option, making it more appropriate for extended use, whereas the U4Tx, being heavier, would likely appeal to users who prefer a more robust tactile feedback. Ultimately, the actuation force of the U4Tx is unknown, but the difference in bottom out forces highlights the distinct experiences provided by each switch type.

Travel distance

The HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch slightly extends to 3.6 mm. This makes the Sunset Gleam the shorter option, with a difference of 0.1 mm favoring the U4Tx in terms of depth. While both switches have travel distances that are relatively close, the U4Tx may provide a marginally deeper experience for users who appreciate a more pronounced keypress. Gamers seeking quick response times might prefer the Sunset Gleam for its shorter travel, which offers a snappier feel, whereas those who enjoy a fuller depth in their keystrokes may find the U4Tx more satisfying despite its minimal increase in travel distance. Overall, while both switches provide excellent responsiveness, the choice ultimately boils down to a preference for either slightly shorter or slightly longer travel distances.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch emits a sound profile that is characterized by a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack, primarily due to the quality factory lube that enhances the experience. It strikes a balance that caters to users who appreciate a little auditory feedback without being overwhelmingly loud. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch showcases a more nuanced acoustic quality, featuring a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out, which is a hallmark of bassy switches. At the same time, it maintains a whisper-quiet top-out, offering a muted response that minimizes keyboard noise while still delivering a rich sound experience. The combination of these qualities makes the U4Tx suitable for users looking for a balanced sound profile that is both satisfying and discreet.

When discussing the feel of these switches, the Sunset Gleam remains an enigma, as its specific tactile characteristics are not explicitly defined in the information provided. However, the Gazzew U4Tx is designed with a sharp tactile bump that provides high feedback intensity, ensuring that each keypress is accompanied by a distinct and crisp sensation. This tactile response is ideal for typists who value a pronounced bump that enhances their typing experience, creating a luxurious overall feel that accentuates the act of pressing each key.

In conclusion, while both the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences, the Sunset Gleam provides a versatile and subtly engaging sound profile, while the U4Tx delivers a rich and refined auditory experience with a sharp tactile feedback. If you appreciate nuanced sound and feel, the Gazzew U4Tx would be the better choice; yet, if a more subdued auditory experience is preferred, the Sunset Gleam may suit your needs. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback in your typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prefer a light typing experience with a satisfying clack, the Sunset Gleam is the way to go. Its 48-gram bottom-out force means less effort per keystroke, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or fast-paced gaming where rapid key presses are essential. The smooth linear feel and factory lubrication create a delightful typing experience that excels in comfort and ease of use. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx is designed for those who crave tactile feedback and a deeper acoustic profile. With a stronger 62.5-gram actuation force, the U4Tx provides a pronounced tactile bump that enhances typing accuracy and satisfaction, making it a great choice for typists who appreciate a more engaged feeling while they type. Its muted but bassy sound can create an enjoyable ambience for both personal use and office settings, where quieter operation is preferred. In summary, choose the Sunset Gleam for a lighter, faster touch and effortless typing, while the U4Tx is perfect for those who relish a tactile sensation combined with a rich, thock-like sound.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more