Gazzew U4 vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Gazzew U4 and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to personal preference and typing style, and two notable options are the Gazzew U4 and the Wuque Studio WS POM+. The Gazzew U4, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, offering a distinctive typing experience enhanced by an unexpectedly plush bottom-out sensation. Additionally, its whisper-quiet sound profile, characterized by muted, low-pitched notes, makes it an excellent choice for an office environment or shared spaces where noise reduction is key. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+, a linear switch, provides a different appeal with its deep and satisfying "thock" sound signature and buttery-smooth keystrokes, leading to a seamless and responsive typing experience. While the WS POM+ is ideal for those who prefer a fluid, uninterrupted keypress without the tactile resistance found in the U4, the latter is perfect for users seeking feedback and a more dynamic interaction with their keyboard. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
POM
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew U4 switches and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, we find interesting similarities and differences that shape their overall performance. The U4 utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend for both the top and bottom housing, often referred to as "boba plastic," which is designed to contribute a rich and deep sound profile characterized by its softness. Conversely, the WS POM+ employs POM (Polyoxymethylene) for its housing, known for its unique ability to create a pleasing sound that is also more muted and deeper in tone. While both materials aim to enhance the auditory experience, the Gazzew blend emphasizes sound richness and depth, whereas the POM offers a distinctly muted yet still deep sound.
The effects of these housing materials extend into the tactile aspects of the switches. In the U4, the proprietary blend is designed to deliver a softer bottom-out feel, which is crucial as the bottom housing directly influences how the switch feels when pressed. The same principle applies to the WS POM+, as the POM material also plays a significant role in the overall feel of the switch, albeit with a potentially different texture and feedback. While both switches might deliver a deeper audio experience, the U4 might offer a more pronounced warmth and richness, while the WS POM+ gives a softer and more muted feeling that sets it apart.
Importantly, the characteristics defined by each switch's housing are interlinked; while the Gazzew U4 excels in creating a vibrant auditory experience through its proprietary blends, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ opts for a more controlled and nuanced auditory profile through its use of POM. If both switches were used in a keyboard setup, each would deliver its own character—however, players seeking specific sound qualities might find that experimenting with different key combinations allows them to achieve similar depth in overall sound. Thus, while the materials differ, understanding how each housing interacts during keypresses can help users appreciate the unique touch and sound profile that both the U4 and WS POM+ offer.
Weight
The Gazzew U4 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch exhibit similar actuation forces, both requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. This similarity means users can expect comparable typing experiences regarding initial keystroke engagement, which is beneficial for long typing sessions or gaming due to the moderate effort required. However, the two switches diverge when it comes to their bottom out forces. The U4 has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is heavier, while the WS POM+ features a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This distinction means that while both switches will feel similar during the initial press, the U4 may provide a more substantial feel when bottoming out, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push. In contrast, typists who lean towards a lighter overall feel might find the WS POM+ more suitable for prolonged use without fatigue.
Travel distance
Both the Gazzew U4 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing either switch down, you will experience an equal distance of movement, resulting in a similar tactile response. As a result, users can expect comparable feedback and key feel when using either switch in their mechanical keyboard setups. The identical travel distances suggest that both switches cater to those who prefer a consistent key press experience.
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 POM+ comes in at $3.90.
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 sound profile of the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is characterized by a whisper-quiet operation, thanks to its muted and low-pitched tone. This makes it an excellent option for individuals looking for a less obtrusive typing experience, particularly in shared environments. The muted sound diminishes the typical clackiness associated with mechanical switches, resulting in a subtle auditory feedback that’s pleasant but not distracting. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch offers a deep and satisfying "thock" sound signature, providing a more pronounced auditory experience that many typists find enjoyable. This sound is a significant aspect of the typing experience for users who appreciate acoustic feedback. However, the exact auditory characteristics of the WS POM+ may vary depending on the keyboard layout, keycaps, and build quality.
When it comes to feel, the U4’s sharp tactile bump is one of its standout features. This switch delivers a strong and crisp feedback with each keypress, ensuring that users can easily discern when a key has been actuated. The tactile feedback offers an exhilarating sensation that enhances typing precision and enjoyment. In contrast, the precise feel of the WS POM+ linear switch remains unspecified, which leaves a gap in understanding how it compares in terms of tactile feedback. Typically, linear switches like the WS POM+ are known for their smooth keystroke without tactility, which may appeal to users who prefer a seamless typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gazzew U4 and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The U4 excels in providing a finely-tuned tactile feedback and a whisper-quiet sound profile, making it suitable for quiet environments where discretion is key. Meanwhile, the WS POM+ leans towards a more auditory and smooth experience with its satisfying "thock" sound. Each switch appeals to different users based on their individual typing style, sound preference, and tactile needs, ensuring that newcomers can find a suitable option based on these characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gazzew U4 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch will ultimately depend on your typing preferences and the environment in which you use your keyboard. If you enjoy the satisfying feedback of a tactile bump and prefer a sound profile that is both muted and low-pitched for an undistracted typing experience—ideal for quiet spaces or shared environments—the U4 is a fantastic choice. Its plush bottom-out sensation enhances comfort during long typing sessions, making it well-suited for writers, coders, and anyone who spends extended periods at the keyboard. On the other hand, if you crave a smoother keypress with a deeper, more satisfying thock sound, the WS POM+ linear switch offers a delightful balance of responsiveness and auditory feedback. Its medium-light bottom-out force makes it better for rapid key presses and gaming, as it requires less effort per keystroke. Thus, consider your prioritization of tactile feedback versus smoothness and sound when selecting between these two exceptional switches.
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