Gazzew U4T vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Gazzew U4T and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Gazzew U4T, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Onion, a linear switch. The Gazzew U4Ts are widely recognized for their harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, offering a satisfying auditory and tactile experience with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onions boast a buttery smooth keystroke feel, thanks to their polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. These switches provide a crisp and responsive feel, complemented by a neutral sound profile. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, making them worth considering. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Spring
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew U4T and the Wuque Studio WS Onion have different housing materials that significantly impact the sound profiles and aesthetics of the switches. The U4T features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This soft plastic blend creates a rich and deep sound profile, enhancing the typing experience for those who specifically enjoy a softer sound. On the contrary, the WS Onion utilizes a polycarbonate top housing known for delivering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This stiffer plastic offers a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for users who prefer a precise and vibrant typing experience. While they differ in their sound characteristics, both top housings provide excellent compatibility with RGB lighting due to their translucency.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the U4T once again employs its proprietary Gazzew blend, known for creating a rich and deep sound profile. Its softness absorbs sound and contributes to a more robust and rounded sound response when typing. On the other hand, the WS Onion incorporates a nylon bottom housing, a classic switch material that enhances the typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller but well-rounded sound response. Therefore, the Gazzew blend bottom housing produces a softer and more resonant bottom-out sound, while the WS Onion's nylon bottom housing creates a fuller and deeper sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switch, the bottom housing plays a more significant role. Pressing down on the U4T switch will highlight the qualities of its Gazzew blend bottom housing, providing a soft and cushiony feel. On the other hand, the WS Onion's nylon bottom housing contributes to a slightly firmer and more substantial tactile feedback when typing. On the other hand, the top housing material mainly affects the sound when letting go of a key. While the U4T's Gazzew blend top housing emphasizes a softer sound when releasing a key, the WS Onion's polycarbonate top housing delivers a crisper and sharper sound in the same scenario.
In conclusion, the Gazzew U4T and the Wuque Studio WS Onion exhibit different sound profiles and typing experiences due to their distinct housing materials. The Gazzew blend top and bottom housings prioritize a softer and deeper sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the WS Onion delivers a sharper and more resonant sound. The nylon bottom housing of the WS Onion contributes to a fuller and deeper sound, whereas the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4T provides a softer and more rounded sound. Despite their differences, both switches are compatible with RGB lighting due to the translucency of their respective top housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew U4T tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, both switches have their values listed as "unavailable grams," indicating that the specific force required to trigger a keystroke is unknown. Therefore, in terms of actuation force, we can expect similar results from both switches.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a force of 62 grams, which falls within the medium range. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, classified as medium-heavy. This means that the WS Onion provides a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force compared to the U4T.
Considering weight as a factor, lighter switches are often favored by those who prefer longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. The lightweight allows for less finger fatigue and strain over time. However, for individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience, heavier switches are recommended. These switches provide a satisfying resistance and tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while the actuation forces of the Gazzew U4T tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch are not specified, the U4T has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the WS Onion has a 63.5 gram bottom out force. This makes the WS Onion slightly heavier, providing a slightly more substantial typing experience. Therefore, individuals seeking a lighter switch for longer typing sessions may lean towards the U4T, while those who prefer a heavier switch for a more satisfying push feel may opt for the WS Onion.
Travel distance
Both the Gazzew U4T tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent travel distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall typing experience provided by both switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
The Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, the Gazzew U4T offers a bassy 'thock' sound profile, which provides a deeper and richer sound during key presses. This is characterized by a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion has a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also affected by other factors such as the chosen keyboard and keycaps. Both switches offer satisfying sound profiles, with the U4T providing a bassy 'thock' and the WS Onion offering a neutral sound.
In terms of feel, the Gazzew U4T is known for its sharp tactile feedback. The sharp tactile bump of the U4T is intense and distinct, providing a highly responsive feel with each keypress. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion is described as offering a buttery and polished feel. The buttery feel implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, the WS Onion's polished finish indicates a smooth and refined typing experience, thanks to reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, the Gazzew U4T offers a bassy 'thock' sound profile with assertive tactile feedback, providing auditory and tactile satisfaction. Its sharp tactile bump delivers a highly responsive feel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion offers a neutral sound profile and a buttery smooth keystroke feel. The WS Onion also boasts a polished finish for a sleek typing experience. Both switches offer their own unique qualities and are suitable choices depending on the desired sound and feel. If you are looking for a deeper sound profile with sharp tactile feedback, the U4T would be a great choice. If you prefer a neutral sound profile with a smooth and fluid typing experience, the WS Onion would be a suitable option.
Conclusion
In closing, to choose between the Gazzew U4T tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. The U4T offers a bassy 'thock' sound profile with assertive tactile feedback, providing auditory and tactile satisfaction. On the other hand, the WS Onion produces a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. In terms of feel, the U4T offers a sharp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress, while the WS Onion provides a buttery and polished typing experience with smooth and fluid keystrokes. Ultimately, if you prioritize a deep and rich sound with crisp tactile feedback, the U4T may be the switch for you. However, if you value a neutral sound profile and a smooth and seamless typing experience, the WS Onion is an excellent choice. Consider your preferences and typing style to determine the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard.
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