Bsun Taichi vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Bsun Taichi and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact your typing experience, and comparing the Bsun Taichi and Gazzew U4Tx switches highlights two distinct approaches. The Bsun Taichi, a linear switch, is celebrated for its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, smoothness, and stability, thanks to its long-pole stem and extended springs. It delivers an uninterrupted keystroke, ideal for those who prefer a slick, clutter-free feel while gaming or typing. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx is a tactile switch that offers a luxurious typing experience by marrying a deep, resonant "thock" with a whisper-quiet topping out sound, creating an acoustic profile that is both satisfying and discreet. The sharp tactile bump in the U4Tx gives it an engaging feedback that many typists cherish, making it a popular choice for writers and coders who appreciate a more interactive experience. While both switches cater to different needs—smooth linearity versus tactile feedback—they each provide unique benefits that enhance the overall keyboard experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
21mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Taichi and Gazzew U4Tx switches exhibit distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The Taichi features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness. This material promotes a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, enhancing clarity and resonance. Its translucency also allows RGB lighting to shine through effectively, making it a popular choice for users who seek both aesthetic appeal and sound performance. In contrast, the U4Tx switches utilize a proprietary plastic blend, often referred to as “boba plastic.” This softer material yields a richer, deeper sound profile, providing a more rounded auditory experience that differs substantially from the Taichi’s sharpness. Thus, while both switches aim for an enhanced typing experience, they cater to different auditory preferences based on the characteristics of their respective top housings.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of both switches present a fascinating similarity. The Bsun Taichi employs a nylon bottom housing, while the Gazzew U4Tx also uses its proprietary Gazzew blend. Nylon is known for producing a full, deeper sound due to its softer nature, which absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics. This results in a mellower sound when bottoming out. The U4Tx’s boba plastic bottom housing similarly aligns with this softer characteristic, enhancing sound absorption and contributing to a deep, rich auditory profile that can be likened to the Taichi’s performance. Given their shared softness, both switches can create a cohesive deep sound, even if their top housings suggest a divergence in sound signature.
The interaction between the top and bottom housing materials is crucial in shaping the overall sound experience of each switch. For the Bsun Taichi, the harder polycarbonate top allows for acute sound characteristics upon key release, whereas the nylon bottom provides a robust support that enriches the experience during a keypress. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx’s softer top and bottom housings contribute mutually to a cohesive sound that is both rich and smooth, smoothing out the differences that might arise from their top housing. Thus, while distinct in their top housing materials, both the Taichi and U4Tx can deliver satisfying results depending on users' intended sound profiles and experiences; one offering sharp clarity and the other promoting a deep, rounded sound. The combination of these materials informs the overall typing experience, making both switches uniquely appealing based on individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Taichi linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Taichi has an actuation force of 40 grams, which indicates that it requires a relatively light touch to trigger a keystroke, making it suitable for those who prefer an easier typing experience, particularly during long sessions at work or gaming. However, the bottom out force for the Taichi switch is unavailable. In contrast, the U4Tx switch features a medium bottom out force of 62.5 grams, suggesting a firmer pressing experience when the key is fully depressed, although its actuation force is also unspecified. As it stands, we can conclude that the Bsun Taichi switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, whereas the Gazzew U4Tx switch offers a heavier bottom out feel, catering to typists who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Without knowing the actuation force for the U4Tx, we cannot directly compare in that aspect, but the differences in bottom out force are clear.
Travel distance
The Bsun Taichi linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, resulting in a uniform keypress experience between the two types. This similarity means that users can expect comparable tactile feedback and engagement when pressing either switch, leading to similar performance in typing or gaming scenarios. Since both switches have identical travel distances, players and typists can enjoy a consistent feel, regardless of which switch they prefer, making them interchangeable for those seeking a specific typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Taichi linear switch is characterized by its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, which is notably bright and responsive thanks to its long-pole stem and extension springs. This auditory quality lends a unique clarity that many typists find appealing. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a richer, deeper sound that can be described as "thocky" when bottoming out, complemented by a muted tone when topping out. The U4Tx switches strike a balance between depth and subtlety, making them a versatile choice for those seeking a less intrusive sound profile without sacrificing richness. While both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, they cater to different preferences—those who enjoy a clear and high-pitched sound versus those who might favor a deeper, bassy sound.
Regarding feel, the Bsun Taichi switch is designed to deliver unparalleled smoothness and stability, though specifics about its tactile feedback are less articulated. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx is recognized for its pronounced tactile bump, which offers a sharp and satisfying feedback during each keystroke. This tactile response ensures a luxurious typing experience that adds to the engagement of the typist. Overall, the U4Tx's tactile feedback is clearly defined, making it a strong contender for users who crave a distinctive sensation with each keypress, while the Taichi aims for a more seamless and fluid experience without pronounced tactile cues.
In summary, the Bsun Taichi linear switch and Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences, catering to different preferences in mechanical keyboard users. The Taichi excels in producing a bright and smooth sound profile, while also providing a fluid typing feel. On the other hand, the U4Tx is notable for its deep thocky sound, paired with a sharp tactile bump that creates a richly engaging interaction. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on whether one prefers a more linear, smooth experience or a tactile, richly textured feedback during typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Taichi linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you find joy in a smooth, unimpeded keypress and appreciate a high-pitched bottom-out sound, the Bsun Taichi switch will provide you with an enchanting experience, particularly suited for fast-paced gaming or typing where you desire minimal resistance. On the other hand, if you crave a more tactile feedback with a deep and resonant sound characteristic, the Gazzew U4Tx switch is the ideal option. Its sharp tactile bump ensures you can feel the actuation clearly, making it perfect for those who enjoy a responsive typing experience, especially in typing-intensive tasks. In essence, prioritize the Taichi when seeking smoothness and speed, whereas the U4Tx is perfect for those who appreciate rich acoustics and distinct tactile feedback.