Gazzew U4T vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Gazzew U4T and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gazzew U4T and Wuque Studio WS POM+ stand out for their distinct characteristics and unique typing experiences. The Gazzew U4T is celebrated for its compelling combination of a pronounced tactile bump and a rich, bassy 'thock' sound, delivering a satisfying feedback that enhances both typing precision and auditory pleasure. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ offers a linear feel with a smooth keystroke, providing users with a quieter experience while still maintaining a pleasing ‘thock’ acoustics. This makes the WS POM+ ideal for those who favor a streamlined, uninterrupted typing flow. Ultimately, your choice might hinge on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and sound with the U4T or silky smoothness with the WS POM+. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew U4T and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, both switches utilize unique proprietary blends designed to enhance the auditory experience. The U4T features a proprietary Gazzew blend known as "boba plastic" for both its top and bottom housings, which emphasizes a rich and deep sound profile due to its inherent softness. In contrast, the WS POM+ utilizes POM plastic, which is known for creating a different yet similarly deep sound profile that leans towards being more muted. While the names and specific formulations of the materials differ, both constructions aim to provide a robust foundation for sound production, which can result in comparable acoustic outcomes when keypresses are made.
Despite the different materials used, the effects of the top and bottom housings on sound are quite similar due to their respective properties. The U4T's softness from the Gazzew blend translates into a plush bottom-out experience, while the muted sound profile of the POM in the WS POM+ provides a distinct yet satisfying auditory sensation. When pressing either switch, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the overall feel and sound quality at the point of bottoming out, thus making both switches suitable for those who appreciate a deeper sound landscape in their typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gazzew U4T and Wuque Studio WS POM+ may boil down to personal preference and sensitivity to sound. Users who favor the softness of the Gazzew blend in their switches may gravitate toward the U4T, while those who enjoy the unique, pleasing characteristics of POM in the WS POM+ may prefer that option. However, given the similarities in the outcomes that both materials can provide, anyone choosing between these two switches can expect a satisfying auditory result, regardless of the differences in housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gazzew U4T tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, there are notable differences in both their actuation and bottom out forces. The U4T has an unspecified actuation force but a bottom out force of 65 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the WS POM+ features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is categorized as medium-light. This means that users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions may find the WS POM+ more comfortable to use. Conversely, those who enjoy a stronger tactile feedback and a more substantial typing experience may gravitate toward the U4T due to its heavier bottom out force. Overall, the U4T leans towards a heavier feel, while the WS POM+ offers a lighter option, appealing to different user preferences in terms of switch weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew U4T tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, the U4T features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS POM+ offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. As the U4T has the longer travel distance, it provides a more traditional keystroke feel, which some users might find appealing for its depth and feedback. Conversely, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the WS POM+ aligns with the trend towards faster response times, making it likely more suitable for gamers or those who prefer a snappier keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may depend on individual preferences: for users seeking a more substantial press, the U4T would be preferable, whereas those desiring quicker responses might opt for the WS POM+.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50, whereas the Wuque Studio WS POM+ comes in at $3.90.
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 U4T switches are characterized by a bassy and thocky profile that lends a deep, rich auditory experience with each keystroke. This sound is reminiscent of a weighted "thud," providing a satisfying auditory cue that enhances the typing experience. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches also deliver a deep, satisfying "thock" sound, yet they are generally highlighted for their buttery-smooth keystroke. While both switches share a similar thocky resonance, the focus on the smoothness of the WS POM+ suggests a slightly different auditory experience that may be more subdued in terms of richness compared to the U4T’s bassy tones. Ultimately, both sound profiles can vary significantly based on the keyboard build and keycap choice, but the characteristics of each switch provide distinct nuances.
Regarding feel, the U4T shines with its sharp tactile feedback, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump that is distinctly felt with every press. This intensity makes the U4T particularly enjoyable for those who seek an engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the feel of the WS POM+ switches remains unknown, which leaves a gap when comparing the tactile qualities between the two. The lack of detailed feedback on the WS POM+ makes it difficult to assert where it stands in terms of tactile engagement, but its smoothness may appeal to those prioritizing effortless keystrokes over pronounced feedback.
In summary, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch and Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch present two distinct experiences for users to consider. The U4T boasts a rich and deep sound along with pronounced tactile feedback that enhances typing engagement, while the WS POM+ offers an equally satisfying thock with a focus on smoothness, although its tactile characteristics remain unspecified. Choosing between these switches will ultimately depend on whether you value sharp feedback or silky keystrokes, as both offer unique auditory experiences that can be tailored further based on the keyboard and keycap combinations used.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gazzew U4T tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for tactile feedback and sound experience. If you're drawn to a more substantial typing experience with pronounced tactile feedback, the U4T's medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams will provide that sharp, assertive bump and a satisfying 'thock' sound that enhances each keystroke. This makes it an excellent option for typists who love clear tactile sensations and enjoy the resonance of deeper bass tones in their typing rhythm. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter touch, the WS POM+ with its medium-light actuation force of 55 grams offers a fluid keystroke with a soft thock sound that's ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. This switch caters to those who want an effortless and quiet typing experience without the pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize feel and tactile response or a smooth operation combined with a satisfying sound profile.
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