Gazzew U4T vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Gazzew U4T and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, both of which fall under the tactile switch category. The Gazzew U4Ts are known for their harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, resulting in a satisfying auditory and tactile experience with every keystroke. These switches offer a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback, giving users a sense of satisfaction that surpasses the norm. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switches by Haimu are designed to provide a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character to the typing experience. They strike a perfect balance between pronounced tactility and being overly tactile, offering a sharp sensation without overwhelming the user. Boasting an accented, bassy, invigorating, and low-pitched profile, these switches aim to elevate the overall 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

Gazzew U4T Tactile

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$6.50 per 10

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gazzew U4T and the Haimu Viola Tricolor differ significantly in terms of their sound profiles. The U4T utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," which is soft and delivers a rich and deep sound. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate, being a relatively stiffer plastic, contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting effects. Therefore, users of the U4T can expect a softer and mellower sound, while Viola Tricolor users will experience a brighter and more vibrant sound.

When it comes to the bottom housing, the Gazzew U4T employs its own proprietary Gazzew blend, similar to the top housing. This soft plastic blend, often referred to as "boba plastic," enhances the rich and deep sound profile of the switch. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor utilizes a nylon bottom housing, a classic switch housing material. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer nature. Nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, the U4T will produce a softer and more resonant bottom-out sound, while the Viola Tricolor will offer a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound experience.

When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing on the overall sound of the switches, it is important to note that each contributes differently. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, users of both the Gazzew U4T and the Haimu Viola Tricolor can expect distinct sound characteristics depending on whether they are pressing down on the switch or releasing a key. However, it is worth mentioning that the softer properties of the Gazzew blend in both top and bottom housings might provide a somewhat similar result in terms of a deep and rich sound, in comparison to the potentially sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the Viola Tricolor.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew U4T tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. Unfortunately, the specific actuation forces for both switches are unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare them. However, both switches fall within the medium force range for their bottom out forces. The Gazzew U4T has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which can be considered medium, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy.

Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing switches. Some individuals prefer lighter switches, as they allow for longer periods of typing without fatigue, making them ideal for work or long gaming sessions. However, there are those who prefer a more substantial typing experience and enjoy a stronger push feel. These individuals might prefer switches with heavier forces.

Overall, while the specific actuation forces are unknown, it can be concluded that the Gazzew U4T is lighter compared to the Haimu Viola Tricolor, at least in terms of bottom out force. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but the Viola Tricolor provides a slightly heavier feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile sensation when pressed, but the U4T provides a slightly deeper sensation due to its longer travel distance. Generally, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, while 3.8 mm is on the shallower side. However, the preference for travel distance depends on personal preference and use case. Gamers, for instance, often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. In contrast, those who prefer a more substantial feel might opt for the Viola Tricolor with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's desired level of responsiveness and depth in their typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, both the Gazzew U4T and Haimu Viola Tricolor switches offer a deep and rich bassy sound profile during key presses. This means that they provide a satisfying auditory experience with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The U4T switches are also described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. Similarly, the Viola Tricolor switches have a low-pitched sound, which typically features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the U4T switches are known for their sharp tactile feedback. They have a strong and crisp tactile bump that is prominent and can be felt distinctly with each and every keypress. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switches are described as accented, providing a medium tactile experience that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. These switches offer a prominent amount of tactility without being scratchy. Additionally, they are referred to as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. This creates an immersive typing sensation for the user.

Considering the available information, both the Gazzew U4T and Haimu Viola Tricolor switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The U4T switches provide a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, offering a bassy 'thock' sound profile and an assertive tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switches strike a balance between thuddy and punchy sound, accompanied by a satisfying tactile feedback. While they have different descriptors and characteristics, both switches aim to provide auditory and tactile satisfaction to the user.

In summary, the sound and feel of a switch are important factors to consider when choosing a mechanical keyboard switch. The Gazzew U4T switches are known for their bassy thock sound and sharp tactility. Meanwhile, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches offer a thuddy and punchy sound, along with a balanced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. It's worth noting that if a similar sound and feel is desired, opting for either switch is likely to yield similar results.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium bottom out force, both the Gazzew U4T and the Haimu Viola Tricolor are excellent options for you. The U4T switch is best known for its harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, providing a bassy 'thock' sound profile and an assertive tactile feedback that offers auditory and tactile satisfaction. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch is designed to deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile with a pronounced tactility that adds character to your typing experience, striking a perfect balance between sharpness and user comfort. In terms of sound, both switches offer a bassy sound profile, but the U4T is specifically characterized as thocky, while the Viola Tricolor is described as low-pitched. In terms of feel, the U4T provides a sharp tactile experience with a strong and crisp tactile bump, while the Viola Tricolor offers an accented tactile sensation that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, described as invigorating. Ultimately, the choice between the Gazzew U4T and the Haimu Viola Tricolor depends on your personal preference for the specific sound profile and tactile feel that suits your typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

Learn more