Gazzew U4T vs. HMX Vintage Citrus

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often hinges on personal preference in terms of tactile feedback and sound characteristics. The Gazzew U4T, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its unique blend of thockiness and sharpness, delivering a satisfying bassy sound and pronounced tactile feedback that brings a sense of solid engagement with every press. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a robust auditory experience and enjoy the sensation of each keystroke, making it particularly appealing for typists who favor a more immersive interaction when composing text or coding. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus is a linear switch explicitly designed for gamers, featuring an incredibly low actuation force of just 1mm. This allows for rapid-fire input, complemented by a bright, clacky sound profile and a smooth keystroke feel, making it the go-to choice for speedy in-game actions where responsiveness is key. Each switch offers distinct advantages depending on one's needs—whether you prioritize the rich feedback of the U4T or the lightning-fast action of the Vintage Citrus. 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 U4T Tactile

HMX Vintage Citrus Linear

$6.50 per 10

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew U4T and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches, it becomes evident that both switches prioritize sound quality, albeit through differing compositions. The Gazzew U4T employs a proprietary blend known as "boba plastic" for both top and bottom housings, which is designed to deliver a rich and deep sound profile due to its inherent softness. This unique material choice not only aims to enhance the auditory experience but also gives the switch a characteristic feel when pressed. Conversely, the HMX Vintage Citrus opts for traditional nylon in both its top and bottom housings. Nylon is well-regarded in the keyboard community for its softer characteristics, which results in a deeper and fuller sound due to its sound-absorbing qualities.

Despite the differences in materials, the end results can be surprisingly similar. Both the Gazzew U4T's "boba plastic" and the nylon used in the Vintage Citrus switches provide softer surfaces that lend themselves to a diminished, rounder sound profile when typing. Each material excels in sound absorption, meaning that the tactile feedback and auditory output can feel pleasingly soft and subdued when typing. Thus, while the U4T introduces a proprietary blend that may offer unique properties, the vintage familiarity of nylon still assures that users will experience a warm acoustic response reminiscent of the U4T's offerings.

Furthermore, the distinct roles of the top and bottom housings in influencing sound and feel cannot be neglected. In both switches, the bottom housing is crucial in determining the bottom-out sound, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing the key. With the U4T's "boba plastic" and the Vintage Citrus's nylon offering soft surfaces on both ends, users can expect a consistent auditory character from each switch, enabling a rich typing experience regardless of the material employed. Thus, while there are differences in terms of specific materials used, the overall sonic quality and typing feel may converge toward a similarly gratifying experience for enthusiasts.

Weight

When comparing the Gazzew U4T tactile switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The U4T does not have a specified actuation force, but it has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which categorizes it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus switch has an actuation force of 48 grams, making it medium-light, while its bottom out force stands at 53 grams. These specifications indicate that the U4T requires a heavier push to activate compared to the lighter touch of the Vintage Citrus, making the U4T more suitable for those who prefer a substantial typing experience. Conversely, the Vintage Citrus, with its lighter actuation force, is better for those looking for a switch that allows for extended typing or gaming sessions with less finger fatigue. Overall, users will find that the Gazzew U4T creates a firmer tactile experience, while the HMX Vintage Citrus offers a gentler touch for quicker keystrokes.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew U4T tactile switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The U4T has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered traditional and provides a deeper feel when pressed. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus features a shorter travel distance of 3 mm, offering a more shallow experience that can be favored by gamers for its quicker response times. For those who appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback and a greater depth in their key presses, the U4T would be the preferred choice. Conversely, if a user prioritizes swift actions and less abrupt responses, the Vintage Citrus would be more suitable. Therefore, the Gazzew U4T is the longer switch at 4 mm, while the HMX Vintage Citrus is the shorter option at 3 mm.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch produces a pleasingly bassy and thocky auditory experience. Each keystroke resonates with a deep, rich tone that delivers a satisfying acoustic feedback reminiscent of a low-frequency thud. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch focuses on a bright, clacky sound profile, ideal for fast-paced gaming. The audible nature of the Vintage Citrus enhances its rapid actuation capability, though specific sound qualities are less detailed. The interaction of these sound characteristics can greatly depend on the keyboard's construction and the materials used for keycaps.

In terms of feel, the Gazzew U4T switch stands out with its sharp tactile response, providing users with a pronounced and distinct feedback during every keystroke. This intense tactile bump is designed for those who appreciate a strong tactile sensation while typing. On the other hand, the feel of the Vintage Citrus switch remains unspecified but is geared towards facilitating quick inputs due to its low actuation force. While the U4T serves those who enjoy tactile depth, the Vintage Citrus is streamlined for speed, potentially offering a different kind of satisfaction.

Overall, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch cater to different preferences within the realm of mechanical keyboards. The U4T excels in creating a satisfying auditory and tactile feedback experience, making it a solid choice for typists who appreciate a pronounced thock and sharp tactility. Conversely, the Vintage Citrus switch is designed for gamers seeking quick actuation and a bright sound, though the tactile feel is less defined. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value deep tactile engagement or rapid input efficiency.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gazzew U4T tactile switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing and gaming preferences. If you appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback coupled with a deep, thocky sound, the U4T is likely ideal for you. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams offers a satisfying resistance that can enhance your typing experience, especially if you enjoy feeling distinct bumps at each keypress. On the other hand, if you lean towards fast-paced gaming or require a lighter touch for rapid inputs, the Vintage Citrus with its 53-gram actuation force and super short 1mm actuation distance might be more suitable. Its clacky sound and smooth feel make it perfect for gamers who need quick responsiveness without the added resistance of a heavier switch. In summary, choose the U4T for a rich auditory experience and strong tactile feedback, while the Vintage Citrus suits those prioritizing speed and ease of use.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

HMX Vintage Citrus Linear

$3.49

$2.79 per 10

Learn more