Gazzew U4Tx RGB vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Gazzew U4Tx RGB and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference in tactile feedback and sound profile. The Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches are celebrated for their pronounced deep "thock" sound when bottoming out and a refined noise level at the top, creating a luxurious auditory experience combined with a sharp tactile bump. This makes them ideal for users who appreciate a rich sound while typing, enhancing the overall sensory experience. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches deliver a balanced experience with medium tactility and a fairly light touch, renowned for their neutral sound signature. This versatility positions the Violet Gold Pro as a "Goldilocks" option for those who seek a comfortable and unobtrusive typing experience. Both switches have their unique appeal, with the U4Tx offering a more luxurious feeling, while the Violet Gold Pro provides an all-around balanced performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew U4Tx RGB and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, significant differences can be noted in both the top and bottom housings, affecting their overall acoustic profiles. The U4Tx RGB features a proprietary Gazzew blend for its top housing, often dubbed "boba plastic," which is softer in nature, yielding a rich and deep sound profile. In contrast, the Violet Gold Pro employs polycarbonate for its top housing, a material known for its stiffness that creates a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast implies that while the U4Tx RGB will deliver a warm and rounded sound when keys are released, the Violet Gold Pro will provide a more resonant and higher-pitched auditory experience, especially noticeable in the context of RGB lighting visibility due to polycarbonate's translucency.
The differences are even more pronounced in the bottom housing of both switches. The U4Tx RGB utilizes the same proprietary Gazzew blend as its bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper sound profile, maintaining consistency with the character established by its top housing. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro features a nylon bottom housing, a traditional material that promotes a fuller sound quality due to its ability to absorb sound more effectively. Consequently, the Dareu switch will produce a slightly duller and rounder sound, particularly on key presses, compared to the U4Tx RGB, which is likely to produce a more cohesive blend of the pronounced bass and rich tones initiated at bottoming out.
The interplay between the top and bottom housings in each switch ultimately dictates the overall typing experience. The Gazzew U4Tx RGB's consistent use of its proprietary blend for both top and bottom housings ensures a uniform acoustic signature, enhancing the deep sound quality throughout the key press cycle. Conversely, the unique combination of a stiff polycarbonate top and soft nylon bottom in the Violet Gold Pro offers an intriguing contrast, producing distinct sound characteristics that are discernibly sharper upon release and fuller when bottomed out. This means users of both switches may experience distinct auditory environments—an inviting warmth from the U4Tx RGB versus a crisp clarity from the Violet Gold Pro—reflecting how carefully selected materials can cultivate differing, yet equally enjoyable, sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, notable differences emerge regarding actuation force and bottom out force. The U4Tx RGB has an undefined actuation force, which complicates a direct comparison, while it is known to have a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Violet Gold Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but its bottom out force remains unspecified. This indicates that the U4Tx RGB is likely to provide a more substantial feel during typing due to its higher bottom out force, while the Violet Gold Pro is more suited for prolonged usage where lighter pressing may reduce fatigue. Consequently, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is the heavier option, and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro is the lighter one, catering to different preferences within the typing experience spectrum.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Gazzew U4Tx RGB has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is longer. For users who favor a more responsive feel for gaming, the shorter travel distance of the U4Tx RGB may be preferable as it allows for quicker key presses. However, for those who appreciate a more substantial tactile feedback and a deeper press, the slightly longer travel distance of the Violet Gold Pro could provide a more gratifying experience. In summary, if you prioritize speed, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is the better choice, but for a more traditional and hearty keypress, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro stands out.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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
In terms of sound, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch is celebrated for its deep "thock" at the bottom and a quieter topping out, creating a refined auditory experience. This offers a more pronounced sound with a luxurious resonance that many typists appreciate. Conversely, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro features a neutral sound signature, characterized by a moderate level of noise that appeals to users seeking a balanced auditory experience. It neither overpowers during key presses nor fades into the background, making it suitable for a range of environments, whether at home or in an office.
When it comes to feel, the U4Tx RGB switch presents a sharp tactile bump, giving users a satisfying feedback that enhances the typing experience. This tactile response is designed to provide feedback right at the actuation point, making it an engaging choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro features a stepped feel, which offers a more mild tactile feedback that separates the keypress into two distinct stages. This stepped design allows for more subtle pre-travel and post-travel sensations, catering to users who prefer a smoother typing experience without the intensity of strong tactile bumps.
Overall, both the Gazzew U4Tx RGB and Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences catering to different typing preferences. The U4Tx RGB stands out for those who appreciate a richer sound and pronounced tactility, while the Violet Gold Pro appeals to users desiring a more balanced sound and a subtler tactile experience. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize an engaging and luxurious typing experience or a more neutral, versatile feel and sound.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gazzew U4Tx RGB and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a richer auditory experience and a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is your go-to option. Its significant bottom-out force and luxurious "thock" sound offer a satisfying and refined experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more robust feel during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In comparison, if you are looking for a versatile switch that balances tactility and ease of use, the Violet Gold Pro should be at the top of your list. With its medium tactility and neutral sound profile, it provides a comfortable and adaptable typing experience, suitable for both newcomers and seasoned typists who require a reliable switch for various situations, whether you’re working from home or in a bustling office. Ultimately, choose the U4Tx RGB for a more pronounced sensation and auditory depth, while the Violet Gold Pro will deliver a balanced, easy-going performance for everyday tasks.