Bsun Taichi vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Taichi and Gazzew U4 stand out as two distinct options, each tailored for specific typing preferences. The Taichi, recognized for its linear characteristics, offers a smooth and consistent keystroke experience, enhanced by features such as a long-pole stem and extended springs. This design results in an enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, providing a unique auditory feedback that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4, a silent tactile switch, delivers a delightful tactile bump that makes each keystroke feel precise and engaging, paired with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. Its muted sound profile emphasizes a subtle typing experience, perfect for quieter environments or those who prefer a less intrusive auditory feedback. While the Taichi offers a smooth and vibrant typing experience favored by gamers and typists alike, the U4 appeals to users who appreciate tactile feedback without excess noise. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Bsun Taichi Linear

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$2.75

$2.25 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Taichi and the Gazzew U4 switches, there are notable differences in the types of plastics used for the top and bottom housings. The Taichi features a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its rigidity, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is particularly favorable for enthusiasts who prioritize clarity, especially if they utilize RGB lighting, as the polycarbonate's translucency enhances light diffusion. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 utilizes a proprietary "boba plastic" blend for its top housing, designed to deliver a rich and deep sound profile, primarily due to its softer composition. This inherent softness contributes to a rounder auditory experience, appealing to users who enjoy a more muted and refined sound.

In terms of bottom housing materials, both switches showcase similar philosophies but with different approaches. The Taichi incorporates a nylon bottom housing, a staple in switch design, known for its deeper, fuller sound due to its sound-absorbent qualities. In opposition, the Gazzew U4 employs the same proprietary blend for its bottom housing, which also favors a deeper sound profile. This similarity indicates that regardless of the differences in their top housing materials, the overall auditory experience may not vary dramatically, as the soft characteristics from the Gazzew blend facilitate sound absorption—akin to the nylon in the Taichi.

Ultimately, these contrasting materials influence the overall sound experience of the switches while also allowing for a cohesive performance due to their shared qualities. The Taichi’s choice of polycarbonate for the top housing results in a distinctly bright sound when keys are released, complemented by the nylon bottom's fullness when bottoming out. Meanwhile, the Gazzew U4 achieves a rich auditory experience with its boba plastic blend throughout, softening the sound across both key pressing and releasing actions. For users interested in achieving a certain sound profile, understanding these material differences allows for a tailored selection based on desired auditory characteristics, ultimately showcasing how both switches can cater to distinct preferences while maintaining captivating acoustic experiences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Taichi linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, several distinctions emerge. The Taichi features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the U4 requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This means that typists or gamers who favor lighter switches may find the Taichi more comfortable for extended use, as it allows for less strain during long typing sessions. However, the Taichi does not provide a bottom out force specification, making it difficult to assess how firmly the switch engages at the end of its travel. In contrast, the U4 has a clearly defined bottom out force of 62 grams, offering a medium resistance that can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a firmer typing experience. Overall, if comfort during prolonged use is a priority, the Bsun Taichi would be the preferable option due to its lighter actuation force, while the Gazzew U4 caters to those seeking a more substantial feel when pressing keys down.

Travel distance

Both the Bsun Taichi linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that the distance the keys travel from the top to the bottom is the same for both switches. This similarity in travel distance suggests that users will experience a comparable feel when pressing down on the keys, providing consistent feedback and responsiveness. Since both switches share this equal travel distance, they are likely to deliver similar typing experiences in terms of key actuation depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Bsun Taichi linear switch is characterized by its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound. This quality is typically associated with linear switches, which means it provides a more pronounced auditory experience when the key is pressed down completely. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a muted sound profile, which minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, producing a softer and quieter auditory experience. The U4 also features a low-pitched sound compared to the Taichi, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Thus, while the Taichi's sound profile is lively and pronounced, the U4 offers a more subtle and discreet auditory presence.

In terms of feel, the Taichi linear switch is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and stability, attributed to its long-pole stem and extended springs. This results in a fluid keypress experience without any tactile feedback during activation. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 offers a sharp tactile bump, providing a high feedback intensity with each keypress. This clear tactile feedback can enhance typing precision, making it particularly enjoyable for users who appreciate a defined tactile response. While the Taichi is all about smoothness, the U4 stands out for its pronounced tactile sensation, making the two switches feel quite distinct when typing.

In conclusion, the Bsun Taichi linear switch offers a high-pitched, lively sound profile and an exceptionally smooth feel, which is perfect for those who prefer seamless key presses. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch provides a muted and low-pitched sound along with a sharp tactile experience, appealing to those who enjoy a more defined feedback with each keypress. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide satisfying experiences, but they cater to different typing styles and auditory preferences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, your choice between the Bsun Taichi linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch hinges on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a smooth typing experience combined with a unique auditory element, the Taichi is the way to go. With its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound and exceptional stability, it particularly suits those who prioritize a seamless keystroke, perfect for gaming or long typing sessions when speed is essential. On the other hand, if you're looking for a satisfying tactile feedback with each keypress and prefer a quieter operation, the Gazzew U4 would likely be a better fit. The sharp tactile bump and plush bottom-out sensation make it ideal for typing tasks, especially in quieter environments where minimizing sound is key. Ultimately, consider the type of activities you do most and the sensory feedback you value in order to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Taichi Linear

$2.75

$2.25 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more