Gazzew U4 vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gazzew U4 and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gazzew U4 and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Gazzew U4 is best known for its silent tactile experience, providing a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump while also offering a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. With a sound profile that is whisper quiet, it is categorized as muted, low-pitched, and sharp. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow is a linear switch that combines classic materials with cutting-edge engineering. Featuring a 22mm double-stage spring, these switches deliver a satisfying bounce and a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts adore. Categorized as creamy, mild, and polished, the WS Yellow switches are crafted to be lightweight, ensuring a smooth and fluid typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew U4 and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow differ in their housing materials. The U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic," which offers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In contrast, the WS Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound. While both materials contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch, the U4's boba plastic may potentially create a slightly softer and more resonant sound compared to the WS Yellow's nylon top housing.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Gazzew U4 again utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend, also known as "boba plastic." This material delivers a rich and deep sound profile, similarly to its top housing counterpart. On the other hand, the WS Yellow employs a nylon bottom housing, which is also recognized for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for increased sound absorption, resulting in a slightly duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the U4's bottom housing may impart a similar soft and resonant sound as its top housing, while the WS Yellow's nylon bottom housing could yield a slightly duller tone.
When comparing the overall sound and feel of the two switches, it is important to consider that the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom. Pressing down on the switch will primarily reflect the qualities of the bottom housing, which impacts the bottom-out sound and feel. In this regard, both the Gazzew U4's boba plastic and the WS Yellow's nylon contribute to creating a deep and resonant sound upon keystroke. Conversely, the sound produced when releasing a key is influenced more by the top housing. Thus, the U4's boba plastic and the WS Yellow's nylon may both contribute to a satisfying sound when unpressing a key, though potentially with slight variations due to their different characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew U4 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. The U4 has a relatively lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the unavailable actuation force of the WS Yellow. However, both switches have a medium level of actuation force. On the other hand, the U4 has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the WS Yellow has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, which is considered medium-light.
Considering the weight of a switch is crucial for different individuals based on their preferences and typing needs. Some prefer lighter switches like the U4, as they allow for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This feature makes them ideal for those who use their keyboards extensively at work or during long gaming sessions. On the contrary, some users prefer a more substantial and robust typing experience, which requires a stronger push feel. For them, switches with heavier forces like the U4's bottom out force of 62 grams might be a better choice.
Though the exact actuation force for the WS Yellow switch is unavailable, if it is similar to the U4's actuation force, users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, the WS Yellow's lighter bottom out force of 53 grams provides a slightly softer and less intense typing experience compared to the U4. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences and the desired typing experience for each user.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew U4 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, we can see that the U4 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in recent times, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. However, it is important to note that the shorter travel distance of the U4 may provide a more immediate and responsive feel when pressing down on a key, making it suitable for those who prioritize quick input. On the other hand, the WS Yellow's slightly longer travel distance may offer a more substantial and satisfying key press for individuals who prefer a deeper and more pronounced sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming 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 Yellow comes in at $3.50.
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 known for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump when typing, providing a distinct and satisfying feedback with each keypress. Additionally, it offers a plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation, adding to the overall tactile experience. The U4s also have a whisper quiet sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches. The low-pitched sound of the U4s adds a mellow and bass-heavy tone. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch offers a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. The creamy and polished feel of the switches provides a smooth and buttery typing experience, effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys. However, specific information about the sound profile of the WS Yellow is unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare it to the U4 in terms of sound.
In conclusion, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch offer different subjective qualities. The U4 provides a sharp tactile feedback and a plush bottom-out sensation, with a muted and low-pitched sound profile. Alternatively, the WS Yellow offers a creamy and polished feel, ensuring a smooth and fluid typing experience. While there may be similarities in terms of providing a satisfying typing experience, the sound profile of the WS Yellow is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, both switches offer their unique qualities that cater to different preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force, the Gazzew U4 would be a great choice. With its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, you can expect a high feedback intensity and a distinct feel with each keypress. Additionally, the U4 provides a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, giving you a satisfying typing experience. It is also worth noting that the U4 has a muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it whisper quiet and bass-heavy. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow is an excellent option. These switches offer a creamy, polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that allows for effortless keystrokes. The WS Yellow has a familiar sound signature and delivers a satisfying bounce due to its material blend. Ultimately, the choice between the Gazzew U4 and the WS Yellow depends on your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile.
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