Gazzew U4 vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Gazzew U4 and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We are thrilled to present to you two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches from Gazzew, namely the Gazzew U4 and the Gazzew U4T. While both switches offer a tactile typing experience, they have distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Gazzew U4 is renowned for its silent operation, delivering a satisfying tactile bump accompanied by a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. Its sound profile is described as muted, low-pitched, and sharp. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T blends thockiness with sharp tactility, resulting in a bassy 'thock' sound profile that provides both auditory and tactile satisfaction. Categorized as bassy, thocky, and sharp, the U4T offers a unique typing experience. However, let's delve deeper into their individual nuances so that you can make an informed decision based on your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew U4 and the Gazzew U4T both utilize proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing materials, which are often referred to as "boba plastic." These housing materials are known for delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to their softness. In terms of their housing materials, both the U4 and the U4T are essentially the same, as they both share the same Gazzew blend top and bottom housing materials. Therefore, users can expect similar results and experiences in terms of sound and feel from both switches.
Since the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in determining sound and feel, any potential differences in the U4 and U4T switches lie in the distribution of these qualities between the top and bottom of the switch. When typing on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing material will be more prominent, impacting the sound and feel during the bottom-out motion. The softness of the bottom housing material contributes to a cushioned and satisfying bottom-out sound and feel.
On the other hand, the top housing material will predominantly influence the sound when a key is released. This means that whether you're using the Gazzew U4 or the Gazzew U4T, the sound profile when releasing a key will be similarly affected by the softness of the top housing material. It provides a dampening effect, resulting in a quieter and more subtle sound when keys are released.
In summary, the Gazzew U4 and the Gazzew U4T share the same proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing materials, commonly known as "boba plastic." These materials produce a rich and deep sound profile due to their softness. Although the top and bottom housings have slightly different functions within the switch, any variations in sound and feel between the U4 and U4T switches would be minimal. Both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience with their cushioned, quieter, and more subtle sound output.
Weight
When comparing the Gazzew U4 tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences in terms of their actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of the U4 switch is 43 grams, providing a medium level of resistance needed to trigger a keystroke. In comparison, the actuation force of the U4T switch is not available, making it difficult to directly compare the two. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 62 grams, ensuring a consistent level of resistance when pressing the keys all the way down.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, making it suitable for work or extended gaming periods. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for a switch with a heavier force. In this case, the U4 switch would be the lighter of the two switches mentioned, although it is important to note that the actuation force of the U4T switch is unknown. The bottom out force remains the same for both switches, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of providing resistance when fully depressing the keys. Overall, while we have limited information regarding the actuation force of the U4T switch, it is likely that both switches would provide similar results in terms of their bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Although both switches have similar travel distances, the U4T offers a slightly deeper key press compared to the U4. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, while a travel distance of 3.6 mm is on the shallower end. With the increasing popularity of shorter travel distances in gaming, the U4 may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and deeper key press may opt for the U4T with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness and depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $6.50. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the U4 and U4T.
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
The Gazzew U4 tactile switch is best known for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, providing a satisfying feedback with each keystroke. Additionally, it offers an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, adding to the overall typing experience. The U4s have a whisper quiet sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches. The low-pitched nature of these switches adds a bass-heavy and mellow tone to the typing sound. Overall, the U4 tactile switch combines tactile satisfaction with a muted and low-pitched sound profile.
On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch embodies a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. It features a bassy 'thock' sound profile, characterized by a deeper and richer tone during key presses. The assertive tactile feedback of the U4T ensures a distinct and satisfying tactile bump with each keypress, similar to the U4. Like the U4, the U4T also provides a sharp and intense tactile experience.
Considering the available information, the U4 and U4T switches share similar qualities in terms of feel. Both switches offer a sharp and intense tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. However, their sound profiles differ. While the U4 has a muted and low-pitched sound, the U4T produces a bassy 'thock' sound. It's important to note that the sound of the switch is also affected by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
To summarize, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch provide comparable tactile feedback with their sharp and intense tactile bumps. The U4 offers a muted, low-pitched sound, while the U4T produces a bassy 'thock' sound. Both switches aim to deliver auditory and tactile satisfaction, allowing newcomers to enjoy different sound and feel profiles depending on their preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gazzew U4 and the Gazzew U4T tactile switches, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a quieter and more subdued sound profile, the U4 switches would be a great choice. They offer a muted and low-pitched sound, minimizing the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. Additionally, the U4 switches provide a sharp tactile bump that is felt distinctly with every keypress, offering a high feedback intensity.
On the other hand, if you seek a more satisfying and immersive auditory experience, the U4T switches would be the better option. These switches offer a bassy and thocky sound profile, characterized by a deeper, richer tone that resembles bass tones. Along with the assertive tactile feedback, each keystroke on the U4T switches will provide both auditory and tactile satisfaction.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gazzew U4 and U4T switches depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel. Whether you prefer a quieter and more subtle typing experience or a more immersive and satisfying auditory feedback, both switches can provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience.
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