Gazzew U4 vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gazzew U4 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We are super excited to introduce two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew U4 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear, both of which offer unique features and advantages. The Gazzew U4 is a tactile switch renowned for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, it offers a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, giving it a distinct and luxurious feel. With a sound profile that is whisper quiet, the U4 is perfect for those who prefer a more muted and low-pitched typing sound. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear by Wuque Studio elevates your office and work experience with its unparalleled responsiveness and satisfying bottom-out. It achieves a remarkable reduction in switch noise through ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Unlike traditional silent switches, the WS Silent Linear forgoes the use of silicone dampeners, resulting in a typing experience that is neutral and devoid of cushioned sensation. Despite their differences, both switches offer a seamless blend of tranquility and precision. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew U4 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear have differing housing materials in their top and bottom components, resulting in unique sound profiles. The U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," which offers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear boasts a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its relatively softer plastic and sound absorption properties. Both switches share similarities in terms of creating a rounder and duller sound, but the Gazzew U4's top housing might provide a slightly more distinct sound when releasing a key.
Similarly, the U4 incorporates a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing that contributes to its soft and rich sound profile. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear utilizes a nylon bottom housing to achieve a deeper and fuller sound by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. While both switches have a rounder and duller sound, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel may be more pronounced with the U4 due to its unique bottom housing material. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear's sound when releasing a key may be slightly influenced by its nylon top housing.
In summary, the Gazzew U4 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housings create a soft and rich sound, while the WS Silent Linear's nylon top and bottom housings elicit a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share similarities in terms of a rounder and duller sound, but the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel may be more prominent with the U4, while the sound when releasing a key may have a slight variation due to the WS Silent Linear's nylon top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew U4 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the U4 is lighter with an actuation force of 43 grams, while the WS Silent Linear's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches have a medium level of bottom out force, with the U4 at 62 grams and the WS Silent Linear slightly heavier at 63.5 grams.
Considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the U4 switch, as its lower actuation force allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This makes it suitable for work environments or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial and pronounced typing feel may opt for the WS Silent Linear, as its slightly heavier bottom out force provides a stronger push sensation during keystrokes. This can result in a more satisfying typing experience for those who value a tactile feedback.
While the actuation force of the WS Silent Linear is unavailable, it may still yield comparable results to the U4 switch if a similar level of force is required to trigger a keystroke. Both switches fall into the medium range for bottom out force, which means they provide a satisfactory level of resistance for individuals who prefer a moderate amount of force when pressing down on the keys.
Overall, the choice between the Gazzew U4 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. Those seeking a lighter and more effortless typing experience may opt for the U4, while those desiring a stronger and weightier push feel may lean towards the WS Silent Linear.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew U4 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it is clear that there is a slight difference between the two. The U4 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Silent Linear has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches deviate from the more traditional 4.0mm travel distance, the U4 is slightly longer than the WS Silent Linear.
For those who prioritize faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the WS Silent Linear may be a preferred choice. Gamers, in particular, often opt for shorter travel distances to enhance their gaming experience. On the other hand, individuals who value a deeper and more substantial feel may lean towards the U4 with its slightly longer travel distance. It is worth noting that some people may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, whereas others may find it to be more responsive.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience. While the difference in travel distance is marginal, it can still have an impact on how a switch feels and performs.
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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20.
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 Gazzew U4 tactile switch is best described as muted and low-pitched. These switches produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The low-pitched sound profile of the U4 gives it a bass-heavy and mellow tone. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch is described as having a neutral, muted, and subdued sound. This means that the WS Silent Linear switches have a moderate sound profile and produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. The subdued sound is dampened and more subtle compared to most switches. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is described as having a sharp tactile bump. These switches provide a high feedback intensity, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch offers a milder typing experience. These switches have a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The WS Silent Linear switches provide a safe, middle-ground typing experience that should be approachable to most users.
In conclusion, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a sharp tactile bump and a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. It provides a muted and low-pitched sound, which gives it a softer and quieter sound profile. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch delivers unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out. It offers a neutral, muted, and subdued sound, along with a mild typing experience. Both switches excel in their own unique ways and offer distinctive typing experiences. If you prefer a more intense tactile feedback and a softer sound, the U4 is an excellent choice. If you prioritize responsiveness, a gentler typing experience, and a quieter sound, the WS Silent Linear switches are a great option. Keep in mind that personal preferences and the specific setup of your keyboard will also influence the overall typing experience and sound produced. Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality performance while catering to different preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force and a unique typing experience, the Gazzew U4 is the way to go. With its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump and plush bottom-out sensation, typing on the U4s will provide you with a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. Additionally, the U4s have a whisper-quiet sound profile, making them perfect for environments where noise needs to be kept to a minimum.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear is your best bet. These switches feature ingeniously designed stem railings that reduce switch noise while maintaining excellent responsiveness. While they do not have the usual cushioned sensation found in traditional silent switches, they offer a seamless blend of tranquility and precision.
In terms of sound, the U4s produce a muted and low-pitched tone, minimizing the noise commonly associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes them perfect for those who prefer a softer and quieter typing experience.
The WS Silent Linear switches, on the other hand, have a neutral, muted, and subdued sound profile. This means they offer a moderate noise level that is suitable for most purposes – whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or in a professional setting.
When it comes to feel, the U4s have a sharp tactile bump with high feedback intensity. This ensures that you can distinctly feel the tactile bump with every key press, providing a highly satisfying tactile experience.
On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches offer a more mild and gentle typing experience. They fall into a safe, middle-ground zone where the sound and feel are approachable to most users.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gazzew U4 and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear will depend on your personal preferences. Do you prefer a tactile switch with a unique typing experience and a plush bottom-out sensation? Or would you rather go for a linear switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force and excellent responsiveness? Consider your desired sound profile and the intensity of tactile feedback you prefer, and make your decision based on what best suits your typing style and environment.
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