Gazzew U4Tx RGB vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Gazzew U4Tx RGB and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB and the Haimu Viola Tricolor both present compelling options for tactile feedback enthusiasts. The U4Tx RGB stands out with its deep "thock" sound and quiet top-out, creating a refined auditory experience that perfectly complements its sharp tactile bump, making it ideal for those who appreciate a luxurious typing feel without loud distractions. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile that injects personality into each keystroke, while its pronounced tactility strikes a harmonious balance, providing satisfying feedback that remains comfortable for prolonged use. While both switches enhance typing engagement with their unique characteristics, they cater to different preferences in sound and tactility. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect 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
N/A
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew U4Tx RGB and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, several distinct characteristics emerge between their constructions. The U4Tx RGB utilizes a proprietary blend of plastics identified as "boba plastic" for its top and bottom housings. This material is known for its softness, contributing to a rich and deep sound profile. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor features a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer material, produces a sharper and crisper sound, resulting in a more pronounced and resonant auditory experience. This contrast in materials not only affects the sonic qualities but also the aesthetic presentation, as the polycarbonate housing is typically more translucent, making it highly suitable for RGB lighting effects.
When observing the bottom housings, the differences in material further highlight each switch's sound profile. The U4Tx RGB maintains the same proprietary boba plastic for its bottom housing, thereby reinforcing its signature deep sound quality. Conversely, the Viola Tricolor opts for nylon, which is a classic choice in the world of mechanical switches. Nylon's softer composition allows for sound absorption, yielding a fuller and rounder acoustic signature. As a result, while both switches present unique auditory experiences through their top and bottom housing combinations, they each cater to particular preferences in sound characteristics—whether it be the A fuller sound from nylon or the sharper clarity of polycarbonate.
Ultimately, these differences in housing materials indicate how the overall switch experience will vary. A switch's performance is heavily influenced by the interaction of the top and bottom housings. In models like the U4Tx RGB, the softer material provides a smoother feel and a deep sound signature, while the sharper profile of the Viola Tricolor's top housing allows for more clarity during key release. However, if one seeks similar results across both switches, it is essential to adjust typing style and switch engagement; the dynamics of housing types can still yield satisfying performance based on individual preferences, especially if one harmonizes the deeper tones of the U4Tx with the crisp response of the Viola Tricolor.
Weight
The Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch both exhibit medium-heavy bottom out forces, with the U4Tx RGB requiring 65 grams to bottom out, while the Viola Tricolor requires slightly less at 63.5 grams. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, suggesting that they may require a similar amount of force to trigger a keystroke, leading to potentially comparable typing experiences. However, the U4Tx RGB is marginally heavier at bottoming out, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the lighter bottom out force of the Viola Tricolor might be favored by those who seek a less strenuous typing experience, beneficial for extended sessions. Overall, while both switches provide a medium-heavy tactile feedback, the slight difference in bottom out weight could influence personal preference based on the user's typing style and comfort.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, we see a notable difference. The U4Tx RGB features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which offers a slightly deeper and more pronounced feel when pressed. The difference in travel distances reveals that the U4Tx RGB caters to users seeking quicker response times, often preferred by gamers, while the Viola Tricolor appeals to those who enjoy a more substantial keypress experience. Both switches have unique benefits; the U4Tx RGB is ideal for those who prefer a rapid, tactile feedback, whereas the Viola Tricolor provides a more traditional feel with its longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
The Gazzew U4Tx RGB 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
When it comes to sound, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches provide a deep "thock" upon bottoming out, combined with a quiet, stealthy topping-out sound that creates a refined and luxurious auditory experience. This distinctive sound profile contributes to an overall more muted typing atmosphere, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter environment. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches deliver a thuddy and punchy sound profile, characterized by its bassy and low-pitched tones, which inject a lively character into every keystroke. While both switches offer unique auditory experiences, the U4Tx's sound leans towards a more subtle and refined profile, whereas the Viola Tricolor embraces a more energetic and resonant quality.
In terms of feel, the U4Tx RGB switches are noted for their sharp tactile bump, designed to offer a luxurious typing experience without overwhelming the user. This tactile feedback is precise and well-defined, allowing for comfortable and accurate typing. Conversely, the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches feature a medium tactile sensation that is accentuated but not overly pronounced, providing invigorating feedback with a moderate to firm actuation force. The combination of pronounced feedback along with a snappy, reactive feel creates an immersive typing sensation. While both switches aim to offer a satisfying tactile experience, the U4Tx focuses on luxury and sharpness, while the Viola Tricolor balances pronounced tactility with comfort.
In conclusion, both the Gazzew U4Tx RGB and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switches provide unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The U4Tx stands out with its subdued yet refined sound and precise tactile feedback, ideal for users who appreciate a quieter typing experience. Meanwhile, the Viola Tricolor impresses with its lively sound and invigorating feel, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference, as both offer quality craftsmanship and distinctive qualities that can significantly enhance one’s mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gazzew U4Tx RGB and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switches ultimately depends on your individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard. If you prefer a refined typing experience characterized by a deep "thock" sound profile with a sharp tactile bump, then the U4Tx RGB might be your ideal choice. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams and quiet topping out make it suitable for a work environment where noise reduction is essential, while still delivering a luxurious feel. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a more bassy and invigorating typing experience, the Viola Tricolor may be the right fit for you. With its slightly lighter bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, it offers a pronounced tactility that provides satisfying feedback without being overly intense, perfect for those who enjoy a punchy sound and feel. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal typing style; consider the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard and the kind of auditory feedback that enhances your typing enjoyment.
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