Gazzew U4Tx RGB vs. Outemu Yellow Silver

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to the desired typing experience, and two noteworthy contenders in this realm are the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch. The U4Tx RGB is celebrated for its captivating sound profile, delivering the deep "thock" of a U4T when bottoming out, complemented by the discreet stealth of a U4 at the top, making it a fantastic option for users who appreciate a rich auditory feedback alongside a sharp tactile bump, favoring a luxurious typing feel. Conversely, the Outemu Yellow Silver caters to those who seek speed and responsiveness, featuring a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile that make it an excellent choice for gamers and typists alike who favor quick key presses without distraction. While both switches have their distinct advantages—be it the refined tactility of the U4Tx RGB or the swift linearity of the Yellow Silver—each switch offers unique traits that can enhance your typing or gaming experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

Outemu Yellow Silver Linear

$6.50 per 10

$3.40 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gazzew U4Tx RGB and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches present a clear contrast in terms of their sound profiles and construction. The U4Tx RGB features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing made of a soft plastic blend often referred to as "boba plastic." This material contributes to a rich and deep sound profile, allowing for a more muted and fuller auditory experience. In contrast, the Yellow Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing known for its rigidity and translucency, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The polycarbonate’s stiffness translates into a clearer and more resonant note when the switch is actuated, leading to a noticeably different acoustic characteristic compared to the softer boba plastic of the U4Tx RGB.

On a deeper level, the bottom housing materials further accentuate the differences in sound profile between the two switches. The Gazzew U4Tx RGB employs the same "boba plastic" for its bottom housing, resulting in a consistent sound experience throughout the keystroke. This uniformity in material allows for a cohesive audio signature, with both the bottom and top housings contributing to a rich, resonant sound. Conversely, the Outemu Yellow Silver uses a nylon bottom housing, known for providing a deeper and fuller sound. The nylon's soft characteristics absorb sound waves differently, which can create a more rounded bottom-out sound. This divergence in bottom housing explores how the materials impact the overall typing experience, resulting in different auditory feedback upon key release.

Despite these variances, both switch designs bring unique qualities to their respective sound profiles. If users aim for similar auditory results between the two switches, they can focus on matching the bottom-out experience. For example, the use of the Gazzew U4Tx RGB's plush bottom housing can soften the overall sound in a similar manner to the Yellow Silver when pressed, thanks to the absorption qualities inherent in the nylon. However, the top housings' disparate materials will ultimately influence how they sound on release, meaning any attempts to achieve identical auditory feedback will hinge largely on user preference and desired tactile experience rather than mere material comparisons.

Weight

When comparing the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch with the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, a notable distinction lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The U4Tx RGB has an unspecified actuation force but features a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Yellow Silver has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light range. This difference in weight may affect user preference; those who favor a lighter switch might gravitate towards the Yellow Silver for its lower actuation force, which can make for easier, less fatiguing typing during extended sessions. On the other hand, users who appreciate a more substantial feel and tactile feedback may prefer the U4Tx RGB despite its undefined actuation force, given its heavier bottom out. Overall, for users seeking a balance between actuation and bottom out forces, the Yellow Silver offers a lighter touch, while the U4Tx RGB stands out for a more robust typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The U4Tx RGB has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Yellow Silver boasts a greater distance of 4 mm. This makes the U4Tx RGB the shorter option, which may be preferred by gamers seeking quicker response times due to its reduced travel distance. Conversely, the Yellow Silver, with its longer 4 mm travel, may appeal to users who enjoy a more traditional feel, providing more depth and a less abrupt sensation when pressing the key. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on user preference for responsiveness versus tactile depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch boasts a distinctive auditory profile that combines a deep "thock" sound when bottoming out with a soft, muted quality at the top. This results in a luxurious sound experience that is less intrusive than typical mechanical switches, making it an excellent choice for environments where noise control is appreciated. In contrast, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch features a neutral sound profile that strikes a balance between being unobtrusive and maintaining enough character to satisfy typing and gaming needs. While the Yellow Silver’s neutrality may not offer the same depth and richness in sound as the U4Tx RGB’s bassy tones, it provides a straightforward auditory experience suitable for a range of settings.

When it comes to feel, the U4Tx RGB is celebrated for its sharp tactile bump, which enhances the typing experience with a pronounced feedback that typists often crave. This strong tactile response can make each keystroke feel more intentional and satisfying. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch is designed with a light actuation force that favors speed and responsiveness, making it particularly appealing for gaming scenarios where quick key presses are essential. However, the Yellow Silver lacks a tactile bump, which can result in a more linear feel that might not be as fulfilling for those who enjoy tactile feedback.

In conclusion, both the Gazzew U4Tx RGB and Outemu Yellow Silver switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The U4Tx RGB offers an enhanced auditory experience with its deep thock and tactile feedback, appealing to those who appreciate a luxurious typing atmosphere. In contrast, the Yellow Silver excels in offering a neutral sound alongside a fast and responsive feel, making it ideal for gamers. Choosing between them ultimately depends on whether you prioritize a rich sound and tactile feedback or a swift and understated typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and how you plan to use your mechanical keyboard. If you enjoy a medium-heavy typing feel with a pronounced tactile bump and a luxurious sound profile that combines a muted yet bassy quality, the U4Tx RGB is likely the better choice for you. It's especially suitable for those who appreciate a refined and satisfying experience while typing or navigating through tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force that enables rapid key presses, especially for gaming or fast-paced typing, the Outemu Yellow Silver provides a more speedy and responsive action. Given its neutral sound profile, this switch is versatile enough for various settings, making it ideal for casual gamers and typists alike. Ultimately, consider your typing style and the environment where you'll be using your keyboard to determine which switch aligns best with your needs and enhance your overall experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

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Outemu Yellow Silver Linear

$3.40 per 10

Learn more