Bsun Taichi vs. Gazzew U4T

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can dramatically affect your typing experience, and two popular options worth considering are the Bsun Taichi and the Gazzew U4T. The Bsun Taichi, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes and a distinctively high-pitched bottom-out sound, thanks to its long-pole stem and extended springs. This makes it ideal for users who prioritize rapid, fluid typing without tactile interruptions. Conversely, the Gazzew U4T stands out as a tactile switch that combines a rich 'thocky' sound with sharp tactile feedback, delivering an engaging sensory experience with each keystroke. This switch appeals to those who enjoy both auditory and tactile satisfaction while typing, making it a great choice for typists who thrive on the feel of each press. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on your typing style and preferences; 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 U4T Tactile

$2.75

$2.25 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the Bsun Taichi and the Gazzew U4T, the differences in their housing materials critically influence their sound profiles and overall tactile experiences. The Taichi utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer characteristics that produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate not only contributes to the switch's acoustic qualities but also complements RGB lighting, creating an eye-catching aesthetic. In contrast, the U4T employs a proprietary Gazzew blend for its top housing, commonly referred to as "boba plastic." This blend, characterized by softer plastic properties, yields a deeper and richer sound profile. While both top housings offer distinct sound experiences, the clear polycarbonate of the Taichi may appeal to those seeking a more defined acoustic quality alongside visual lighting effects.

In terms of bottom housing, both switches again display an intriguing contrast in material properties. The Taichi's nylon bottom housing invites a classic approach, known for its ability to absorb sound and thereby producing a deeper and fuller tonal quality. This result stems from nylon's softer nature, which dampens sound more effectively than harder plastics. Conversely, the Gazzew U4T also employs a proprietary Gazzew blend in its bottom housing, mirroring the softness found in its top housing. This means that the U4T similarly offers a rich and rounded sound profile akin to that of the Taichi but with a slightly different character due to the unique composition of the proprietary plastic blend. Thus, while the sound profiles of the two designs will vary, they both deliver a tactile and auditory experience grounded in softer material properties.

Ultimately, the impacts of the different housing materials in the Taichi and U4T reveal that each switch's unique characteristics can influence the overall feel and sound during operation. Specifically, the Taichi's combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom amplifies both the higher-pitched sounds upon release and the subdued, fuller tones during bottoming out. In comparison, the U4T's dual use of the proprietary Gazzew blend allows for a more consistent softness throughout, creating an enveloping acoustic experience that emphasizes depth across both the top and bottom housing. Consequently, while the switches utilize distinct materials, closer examination reveals that they can create a similarly compelling sound profile by balancing the sharper tones of the Taichi with the richer notes of the U4T, thus allowing enthusiasts to select a switch that resonates with their personal preferences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Taichi linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Taichi has a specified actuation force of 40 grams, which indicates a relatively light resistance when triggering a keystroke, making it well-suited for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially over long periods. In contrast, the U4T's bottom out force is recorded at 65 grams, categorized as medium-heavy, illustrating that this switch provides a more substantial resistance when fully pressed down. However, the actuation force for the U4T remains unknown, leaving a gap in the comparison regarding its initial keystroke resistance. If it were found to match that of the Taichi at 40 grams, users could expect a similar tactile experience until the bottoming out stage, where the heavier resistance of the U4T would become prominent. As it stands, the Taichi is the lighter option, appealing to typists who seek ease and comfort, while the U4T leans towards a firmer feel, ideal for those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke feedback.

Travel distance

The Bsun Taichi linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Taichi the shorter option, providing a more responsive typing experience that some gamers may prefer for quicker actuation. In contrast, the U4T's longer travel distance of 4 mm offers a more substantial feel, which can be appreciated by those who enjoy a deeper keypress. As traditional travel distances generally hover around 4.0 mm, the U4T aligns closely with that standard, making it suitable for users who favor a hearty depth in their keystrokes. Thus, if a more abrupt response is desired, the Taichi is the better choice, whereas the U4T appeals to those who value a more pronounced tactile feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Bsun Taichi linear switch is characterized by its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, which brings a sense of elegance to each keystroke. This auditory experience is enhanced by its long-pole stem, extended springs, and walled designs, which contribute to a unique and satisfying sound profile. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch presents a markedly different auditory footprint, offering a bassy and thocky sound that resonates with a deeper, richer quality. The U4T’s distinctive thockiness produces a sense of depth and resonance, resembling a soft “thud,” adding an element of auditory pleasure to the typing experience. While both switches deliver appealing sounds, they cater to different preferences, with the Taichi offering a higher pitch and the U4T emphasizing deeper bass tones.

In terms of feel, the Bsun Taichi’s characteristics remain unspecified, but linear switches are generally known for their smooth keystrokes without tactile bumps, creating a seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch provides sharp tactile feedback, characterized by a prominent and crisp bump noticeable at actuation. This assertive tactile feedback ensures that typists can easily discern each keystroke, adding an engaging dimension to the typing experience. The differences in feel between the two switches cater to specific typing preferences: those who enjoy smoothness might gravitate towards the Taichi, while others who seek defined tactile feedback will likely prefer the U4T.

In summary, while the Bsun Taichi linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences, they appeal to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Taichi's high-pitched sound and smooth feel contrast with the U4T’s bassy thock and sharp tactile bump, allowing users to choose based on their desired typing sensations and sounds. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual taste and typing style, ensuring that both can provide satisfying experiences for their respective audiences.

Conclusion

To wrap up, choosing between the Bsun Taichi linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing habits. If you appreciate a smooth and quiet typing experience where the sound of each keystroke is an important factor for you, the Taichi switch will be your go-to option. Its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, combined with its unmatched smoothness and stability due to the long-pole stem and extended springs, makes it ideal for those who desire a whisper-quiet environment, perhaps for office settings or late-night gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you relish a more dynamic typing experience with satisfying auditory and tactile feedback, the U4T is your best bet. Known for its thocky sound and sharp tactile bump, this switch suits users who enjoy feeling and hearing their key presses, making it perfect for typists and gamers who benefit from that added sensitivity and responsiveness. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you value a soft, smooth experience or a pronounced, tactile engagement with every keystroke.

Mentioned in this article

Bsun Taichi Linear

$2.75

$2.25 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more