Durock T1 vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Durock T1 and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that come to mind are the Durock T1 and the Gazzew U4Tx. Both of these switches fall under the tactile category, providing a satisfying bump when pressed. However, there are distinct differences between the two that might sway your decision. The T1 is praised for its comfortable typing experience, with a medium bump and a sound resembling the soothing pitter-patter of rain on a window. On the other hand, the U4Tx offers a unique combination of qualities, giving you both a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet stealth when topping out. It truly marries the best of both worlds in terms of sound. While these general pointers can help guide your decision, let's delve deeper into the specifics so you can make an informed choice that suits your preferences perfectly.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Nylon
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 Durock T1 and the Gazzew U4Tx differ in terms of their housing materials. The T1 features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, sometimes referred to as "boba plastic." This unique plastic blend delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While the T1 focuses on producing a sharper sound, the U4Tx emphasizes a deeper and more mellow sound.
In terms of their bottom housings, the T1 is equipped with a nylon housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Comparatively, the U4Tx incorporates a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, which again demonstrates the use of "boba plastic." This soft plastic blend contributes to the switch's rich and deep sound profile. While the T1 prioritizes a deep and full sound with its nylon bottom housing, the U4Tx achieves a similar effect with its proprietary blend.
When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more noticeable. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning that the T1's nylon bottom housing will emphasize a deeper and fuller sound, while the U4Tx's Gazzew blend bottom housing will enhance the rich and deep sound profile. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. With the T1's polycarbonate top housing, you can expect a sharper and crisper sound upon key release, while the U4Tx's Gazzew blend top housing will produce a softer and more mellow sound. While the housing materials differ, both switches ultimately aim to offer unique sound experiences and can deliver similar results in terms of their sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is important to note that both switches have an unknown actuation force. However, the Durock T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Gazzew U4Tx has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 65 grams, also falling under the medium-heavy category.
Considering weight, some users prefer lighter switches as it allows for longer typing sessions, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. In this aspect, both the Durock T1 and Gazzew U4Tx provide similar results as their actuation forces are unknown. However, for those seeking a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, they may opt for switches with heavier forces.
Overall, while the actuation forces of both switches are unavailable, the Durock T1 has a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the Gazzew U4Tx. Nonetheless, both switches can offer a similar typing experience, catering to those who desire a medium-heavy touch for their keyboard.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock T1 tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is evident that the T1 has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm compared to the U4Tx's 3.6 mm. The T1's 4.0mm travel distance falls into the range of traditional distances, while the U4Tx's 3.6mm falls into the more shallow range. This difference in travel distance may be important to consider depending on individual preferences and use cases. Gamers, for example, often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the U4Tx more suitable for their needs. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter distances to be too abrupt and prefer the deeper feel of the T1's longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 Durock T1 offers a low-pitched tone that is characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow sound. This provides a soothing and calming auditory experience, reminiscent of rain falling on a window. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches aim to strike a balance between an aggressive bottom-out sound and a quiet top-out sound. This results in a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out, combined with a whisper-quiet top-out sound. The U4Tx switches offer a richer and more bass-driven sound profile, giving it a distinctively bassy feel. Additionally, the U4Tx switches are designed to minimize the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, providing a muted sound experience. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the sound produced by these switches, so it is important to consider those factors as well.
Moving on to feel, the Durock T1 switches have a stepped design, offering a tactile experience that can be described as having two stages. With a moderate amount of pre-travel and post-travel, the T1 switches provide a mild tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Furthermore, these switches are polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing feel. The reduced friction and smooth key travel contribute to a sleek typing experience.
In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer a sharp tactile bump that is highly intense. With each keypress, the sharpness of the tactile feedback is distinct and prominent. The U4Tx switches are not hypertactile but are still accented, meaning they provide a notable amount of tactility without being overly pronounced or scratchy.
Taking all the available information into account, the Durock T1 and Gazzew U4Tx switches offer different subjective qualities. The T1 switches provide a comfortable and medium bump feel, accompanied by a low-pitched sound that resembles rain falling on a window. On the other hand, the U4Tx switches combine a deep, resonant "thock" sound while bottoming out, with a quiet and muted top-out sound. Each keypress on the U4Tx switches offers a sharp and satisfying tactile bump. Despite their differences, both switches aim to offer a luxurious and pleasing typing experience. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on personal preferences in terms of sound and feel. However, it is worth noting that the Durock T1 switches may provide a similar level of comfort and satisfaction as the Gazzew U4Tx switches in terms of typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you prioritize comfort in typing and enjoy a medium bump with a rain-like sound, the Durock T1 tactile switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a refined sound profile with a deep "thock" when bottoming out and a quiet topping out, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is the better choice. In terms of sound, the T1 offers a low-pitched, neutral tone, while the U4Tx provides a bassy and muted sound. As for feel, the T1 offers a stepped, accented, and polished typing experience, while the U4Tx delivers a sharp and intense tactile bump. Ultimately, it depends on your preferences for sound and feel, so choose accordingly and enjoy a luxurious typing experience with either of these switches.
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