Gazzew U4 vs. Wuque Studio WS Red

Overview

If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may want to consider the Gazzew U4 and the Wuque Studio WS Red. The Gazzew U4 is a tactile switch that offers a unique typing experience. It features a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, along with a plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation. Additionally, the U4s have a whisper-quiet sound profile, making them ideal for those who prefer a more muted and low-pitched typing sound. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red is a linear switch that provides a bouncy and responsive typing experience. It utilizes a 22mm double-stage spring and offers a satisfying and substantial typing feel. With a heavier actuation force, it adds a touch of weight to each keystroke. Both switches have their own advantages, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gazzew U4 Tactile

Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$6.50 per 10

$3.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gazzew U4 and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches differ in composition, but both aim to enhance the sound profile of typing. The U4 employs a proprietary Gazzew blend for both the top and bottom housing, while the WS Red utilizes nylon for both components. Both switches emphasize the softness and absorbent qualities of their respective materials to create a deeper and fuller sound profile.

Starting with the top housings, the U4's Gazzew blend, often referred to as "boba plastic," produces a rich and deep sound due to its softness. Similarly, the WS Red's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. However, since both materials share the characteristic of being relatively softer plastics, the resulting sound produced by their top housings might exhibit similar qualities.

Moving on to the bottom housings, the U4 also utilizes its Gazzew blend, which delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. On the other hand, the WS Red features a nylon bottom housing that absorbs sound and contributes to a duller and rounder sound when typing. Although the materials differ, their aim is similar - to create a softer sound and enhance the overall auditory experience while typing.

When it comes to the tactile experience, the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials will manifest differently. The impact of the bottom housing will be more noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed. Meanwhile, the sound profile when releasing a key will be influenced more by the top housing. While the specific details of the switch design may result in subtle differences between the U4 and the WS Red, the general principle remains the same for both switches' housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew U4 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there are notable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the U4 is lighter compared to the WS Red. This lighter weight can be advantageous for individuals who prefer extended typing sessions or engage in long gaming sessions, as it allows for less strain on the fingers and wrists. On the other hand, the WS Red provides a heavier push feel, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger tactile feedback.

In terms of specific measurements, the U4 has an actuation force of 43 grams, which indicates the force required to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, the bottom out force for the U4 is 62 grams, suggesting the force required to press the keys all the way down. Comparatively, the actuation force for the WS Red is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare this particular aspect between the two switches. However, the WS Red does have a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy resistance.

Overall, individuals seeking a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Gazzew U4 switch, while those desiring a more forceful and substantial feel may find the Wuque Studio WS Red switch to be a suitable choice. Despite the difference in actuation force, both switches provide a medium level of resistance for a satisfying and responsive typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gazzew U4 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The U4 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Red has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in recent times. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances as they provide faster response times. If you are seeking a highly responsive switch, the U4 with its shorter travel distance may be a better choice for you. However, it is important to note that some individuals find short travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a deeper and more substantial keystroke, the WS Red with its slightly longer travel distance might be more suitable for you. Overall, both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences and needs.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gazzew U4 tactile switch is known for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, providing a high feedback intensity. This means that each keypress will provide a distinct and strong tactile feedback. Additionally, the U4 switch offers a plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation, adding a luxurious feel to each keystroke. The sound profile of the U4 is described as whisper quiet, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical keyboard switches. It also has a low-pitched tone, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow sound.

On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound and feel of the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch. However, due to its classic material blend and familiar sound signature, it can be inferred that the WS Red switch may produce a sound profile that is not significantly different from traditional linear switches. Regarding the feel, there is no given description, but it is mentioned that the WS Red switch has a heavier actuation force, adding weight to each keystroke and delivering a satisfying and substantial typing feel.

In conclusion, the Gazzew U4 and Wuque Studio WS Red switches have distinct qualities. The U4 switch stands out with its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, plush bottom-out sensation, muted and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, while there is less information available about the WS Red switch, it is expected to offer a bouncy and responsive typing experience, with a familiar sound signature and a heavier actuation force. While the two switches may provide different subjective experiences, they both have unique qualities that contribute to an enhanced typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force and a muted, low-pitched sound, the Gazzew U4 is the perfect choice for you. You will experience a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump while typing, along with an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. The U4s also have a whisper-quiet sound profile, making them ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly heavier actuation force, the Wuque Studio WS Red is a great option. These switches offer a bouncy and responsive typing experience, while still providing a familiar sound signature. The WS Red switches add a touch of weight to each keystroke, delivering a satisfying and substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the Gazzew U4 and the WS Red will depend on your preferences for tactility, sound, and typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

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Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more