Gazzew U4 vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the Gazzew U4 and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew U4 and the Wuque Studio WS Jade stand out as popular options with their own unique characteristics. The U4 is favored for its silent tactile experience, offering a sharp tactile bump and a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation that is accompanied by a whisper-quiet sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Jade is known for its metallic insert creating a bright, resonant sound profile, paired with a creamy and smooth typing experience and a rock-solid bottom-out. While the U4 is classified as 'Muted', 'Low-pitched', and 'Sharp', the WS Jade is classified as 'Clacky', 'Marbly', 'Resonant', 'Silky', and 'Creamy'. Each switch brings its own unique qualities to the table, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew U4 and the Wuque Studio WS Jade both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their respective sound profiles. The U4 utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, while the WS Jade uses a POM top housing. Both materials offer a rich and deep sound profile, but the Gazzew blend is known for its softness and the POM material is described as creating a more muted sound. This difference in sound profile can be attributed to the unique properties of each material, highlighting the importance of housing materials in the overall performance of a switch.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Gazzew U4's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing is similar to its top housing, creating a cohesive sound profile characterized by richness and depth. In contrast, the WS Jade features a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. The choice of material for the bottom housing can significantly impact the overall feel and sound of a switch, making it an important factor to consider when designing or selecting a switch for a keyboard setup.
While the Gazzew U4 and the Wuque Studio WS Jade differ in their top and bottom housing materials, both switches prioritize delivering a rich and deep sound profile. The Gazzew blend and POM materials each bring their unique qualities to the table, influencing the overall sound and feel of the switch. Despite these differences, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile from both switches, as the housing materials are carefully selected to complement each other and enhance the typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Gazzew U4 and the WS Jade will come down to personal preference and the specific sound profile that users are looking to achieve.
Weight
The Gazzew U4 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch have similar actuation forces, with the U4 requiring 45 grams and the WS Jade needing 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the U4 is heavier at 62 grams compared to the WS Jade's 60 grams. The U4 provides a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the WS Jade offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches have medium actuation forces, which means users can expect a similar level of tactile feedback when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew U4 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from top to bottom. As a result, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer a similar typing experience. Despite any potential differences in tactile feedback or smoothness between the two switches, their equal travel distance ensures that users can expect consistent results when typing on keyboards equipped with either the Gazzew U4 tactile switch or the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Jade comes in at $4.30.
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 Gazzew U4 tactile switch is known for its muted and low-pitched characteristics, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch is described as clacky, marbly, and resonant, offering a sharp, clean, and higher-pitched sound profile. If you prefer a more subdued and bass-heavy typing sound, the U4 would be the better choice, whereas if you enjoy a crisper and more percussive sound, the WS Jade would be more suitable.
When it comes to feel, the U4 tactile switch is recognized for its sharp tactile bump, delivering a strong and crisp feedback intensity with each keypress. In contrast, the WS Jade linear switch is characterized as silky and creamy, providing an exceptionally smooth and buttery typing experience. If you prefer a switch with a pronounced tactile bump, the U4 would be the ideal option, while if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing feel, the WS Jade would be the recommended choice.
In conclusion, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a muted sound profile with a sharp tactile bump and a plush bottom-out sensation, making it suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience with a strong tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch provides a bright and resonant sound profile with a creamy and smooth typing feel, catering to users who enjoy a sharper sound and a silky typing sensation. Based on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose between the U4 for a softer and more tactile experience or the WS Jade for a crisper and smoother typing feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gazzew U4 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a softer bottom-out sensation, the U4 may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more resonant and clacky sound profile with a smooth and creamy typing feel, the WS Jade could be the optimal option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for.
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