Jwick Taro vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Jwick Taro and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Jwick Taro and the Gazzew U4 both offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The Taro switches are known for their comfortable and subdued color scheme, which is reflected in the cozy typing experience they provide. These switches offer a snappy, medium-level of tactility and produce acute and crisp clacks while typing. Categorized as neutral, buttery, and stepped, the Taro switches offer a balanced and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switches are renowned for their sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, providing a more pronounced and satisfying typing experience. Additionally, these switches offer an unexpectedly plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation. With a sound profile that is whisper quiet, the U4 switches are categorized as muted, low-pitched, and sharp. Choosing between the Taro and U4 switches comes down to individual preferences. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jwick Taro and the Gazzew U4 differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Taro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more resonant sound. On the other hand, the U4 utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This unique plastic blend produces a rich and deep sound profile, thanks to its softness. While both materials provide distinct sound qualities, the Taro's polycarbonate lends itself well to RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency, while the U4's blend delivers a unique depth of sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Taro incorporates a nylon material. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the U4 also uses Gazzew's proprietary blend for its bottom housing material. Just like the top housing, this "boba plastic" creates a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Both switches benefit from their respective bottom housings, enhancing the overall sound experience with their unique characteristics.
When comparing the two switches, it is important to note that the housing materials play a significant role in the sound profiles when pressing and releasing keys. Although the Taro and U4 have different top and bottom housings, each contributes to the overall sound experience differently. The Taro's bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing is responsible for the sound when releasing a key. Similarly, the U4's bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound, while the top housing contributes to the sound when letting go of a key. Therefore, while the specific materials differ between the two switches, they both express the importance of housing materials in achieving desired sound qualities.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, we can see some differences and similarities. Starting with the actuation force, the Taro switch unfortunately has an unavailable gram value, making it difficult to compare directly. However, the U4 switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams. This means that the U4 switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Taro switch, at least in terms of actuation force.
Moving on to the bottom out force, we find that the Taro switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. On the other hand, the U4 switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which falls under the medium category. In this aspect, the Taro switch requires slightly more force to fully press down the key compared to the U4 switch.
Considering the weight of the switches, it's worth noting that some users prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for longer periods without fatigue. This is especially beneficial for those who use their keyboards for work or indulge in long gaming sessions. However, others prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, switches with heavier forces are more suitable.
In summary, the Taro switch and the U4 switch have different actuation forces, with the U4 switch being lighter. However, their bottom out forces are relatively similar, with the Taro switch slightly heavier. It's essential to consider personal preferences and requirements when choosing between these switches, as the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in the overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch are quite similar, with the Taro having a travel distance of 3.7 mm while the U4 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have gained popularity recently, particularly among gamers who seek faster response times. Choosing the shorter travel distance option, in this case, either switch, would provide a more responsive typing experience. However, it is worth noting that some individuals may find short travel distances to feel abrupt. If you prefer a deeper and more substantial keypress, opting for the switch with the slightly longer travel distance, the Jwick Taro, would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference for either a swifter or more profound typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
The Gazzew U4 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 Taro switches offer a neutral profile. This means that they produce a moderate sound that is suitable for various purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced typist, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. On the other hand, the U4 switches have a muted sound profile. This means that they produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, minimizing the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. Additionally, the U4 switches have a low-pitched sound, which gives them a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It's important to note that the sound of the switches also depends on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Taro switches provide a buttery typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform sensation. Additionally, the Taro switches have a stepped feel, which means that they have two stages in their tactile feedback. This includes some pre-travel and/or post-travel, giving the typist a mild tactile experience. On the other hand, the U4 switches offer a sharp tactile bump. These switches are known for their high intensity feedback, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress.
Based on the information provided, the Taro switches offer a cozy typing experience with a moderate level of tactility and acute clacks. They have a neutral sound profile and provide a buttery and stepped feel. On the other hand, the U4 switches offer a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. They have a sound profile that is whisper quiet, with a muted and low-pitched sound. If you're looking for a tactile typing experience, the Taro switches will provide a comfortable and balanced option. If you prefer a more intense tactile feedback and a quieter sound, the U4 switches will be the ideal choice. Overall, both switches offer their own unique qualities, and the choice between them will depend on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a comfortable and cozy typing experience with a medium-level of tactility, the Jwick Taro tactile switches would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a snappy feel and produce acute and crisp clacks while typing. Additionally, they have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more exhilarating tactile bump and a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, the Gazzew U4 tactile switches would be an excellent option. These switches provide a sharp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. Furthermore, they have a medium bottom out force of 62 grams.
When it comes to sound, the Taro switches have a neutral profile. This means they produce a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you're using them at home or work. On the other hand, the U4 switches have a muted sound profile. They produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, and they also have a low-pitched tone that is more bass-heavy and mellow.
In terms of feel, the Taro switches offer a buttery typing experience. They provide a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing experience. Additionally, they have a stepped feel, meaning they have two stages in their tactile feedback, offering a mild and comfortable tactile experience. On the other hand, the U4 switches have a sharp feel. They offer a high feedback intensity with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly.
Ultimately, the choice between the Jwick Taro and Gazzew U4 tactile switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a cozy and comfortable typing experience with a medium-level of tactility, go for the Taro switches. However, if you're looking for a more exhilarating tactile bump and a plush bottom-out sensation, the U4 switches would be a perfect fit. Consider your sound preferences as well, with the Taro switches offering a neutral sound profile and the U4 switches providing a quieter and low-pitched sound. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
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