Gazzew U4Tx RGB vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Gazzew U4Tx RGB and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the differences in sound profile, tactile feedback, and overall typing experience can heavily influence your decision. On one hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch offers a luxurious typing experience characterized by its deep "thock" bottoming out and sharp tactile bump, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate feedback with each keystroke. Its muted bassy sound profile ensures a refined auditory experience, ideal for both office environments and gaming setups where noise management is crucial. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch prioritizes a smooth and silent typing experience with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure. This switch provides an incredibly soft and elastic feel, effectively absorbing sound and creating a whisper-quiet atmosphere, perfect for users who prefer a more subdued approach without sacrificing stability. Both switches cater to different preferences, making them appealing for specific use cases. 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
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew U4Tx RGB and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, significant differences emerge in their sound profiles and aesthetics. The U4Tx RGB utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend often dubbed "boba plastic" for its top housing, which is designed to deliver a soft and rich sound due to its inherent softness. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity, which results in a sharper and crisper sound profile. This distinction in materials leads to differing audible experiences when typing, with the U4Tx RGB favoring a deep, mellow sound and the Zero Degree 0° offering a more resonant, higher-pitched response that benefits from its translucent nature, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy RGB lighting effects.
Regarding the bottom housing, there is another divergence between the two switches. The U4Tx RGB employs the same proprietary Gazzew blend, or "boba plastic," known for its sound absorption qualities that contribute to a fuller and deeper sound experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, a material that also prioritizes a deeper sound. While both switches feature softer bottom housing materials, the key difference lies in the specific auditory characteristics they evoke; nylon absorbs sound differently, yielding a slightly distinct, rounder quality compared to the U4Tx RGB's boba plastic, which enhances a rich acoustic environment.
In summation, while both switches present unique advantages stemming from their housing materials, they curate different tactile and auditory feedback suited to distinct preferences. The Gazzew U4Tx RGB excels in creating a warm and soft resonance largely due to its proprietary blend in both top and bottom housings. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° leverages the sharpness of polycarbonate in the top and the classic attributes of nylon in the bottom, resulting in a diverse typing experience. If a user finds that they enjoy both soft and rich sound profiles, they can expect similar auditory satisfaction when using either switch, although the nuances of sound will differ based on the materials involved.
Weight
When comparing the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, the notable difference lies in their actuation forces. The U4Tx RGB has no specified actuation force, making it difficult to gauge how it feels when typing. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, which may appeal to users looking for a switch that allows for easier and less tiring long typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, the U4Tx RGB has a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a medium-heavy resistance when pressing all the way down. The bottom out force for the Zero Degree 0° switch is unknown, which complicates direct comparisons in that respect. In summary, based on the available information, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is the lighter switch due to its specified actuation force, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB might be perceived as heavier due to its higher bottom out force. For those who prefer a substantial typing experience, this difference can be a deciding factor when choosing between the two switches.
Travel distance
The Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this regard. This identical measurement means that users can expect a similar feel and response when pressing down on each switch, resulting in a comparable typing experience. Whether opting for the tactile feedback of the U4Tx or the smoothness of the Zero Degree 0°, the consistency in travel distance ensures that neither switch offers a significant advantage in terms of how far the key travels when pressed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it becomes evident that both are designed to be more subdued than traditional mechanical switches. The U4Tx RGB produces a rich, deep "thock" upon bottoming out, characterized by a muted and bassy sound that gives a luxurious auditory experience. This makes it enjoyable for typists who appreciate a tactile feedback system that elevates the typing experience without being overly loud. Conversely, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° also emphasizes a muted sound profile, but it incorporates a low-pitched tone that is somewhat softer and steadier due to its innovative construction. The self-padding design and dual-rail structure enhance its ability to absorb sound, resulting in an exceptionally quiet typing experience. While the U4Tx RGB leans towards a richer sound, the Zero Degree 0° provides a more consistent and subdued auditory presence.
In terms of feel, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB boasts a sharp tactile bump, which adds an engaging element to each keypress, enhancing the tactile feedback without overwhelming the user. Unfortunately, details about the U4Tx's specific smoothing qualities are not provided, making it difficult to fully assess its comparative smoothness against its counterpart. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° linear switch excels in providing a polished, refined typing experience with reduced friction. The subtle resistance during key presses ensures ease of typing, making it suitable for long sessions or shared spaces where noise sensitivity is paramount. Its design promotes a soft, elastic feel that highlights the smoothness of the keystroke without intrusive feedback.
In conclusion, both the Gazzew U4Tx RGB and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch cater to those seeking a quiet yet enjoyable typing experience, albeit in different ways. The U4Tx is tailored for those who appreciate a tactile bump and a deeper sound, while the Zero Degree 0° focuses on providing an ultra-smooth, silent typing experience. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you prefer tactile feedback or a linear feel, but with both switches, you can be assured of a refined auditory and tactile experience suited for various typing environments.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and the environment in which you intend to use your mechanical keyboard. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and appreciate a deeper, bassy sound profile, the U4Tx RGB would be a strong choice, especially if you prefer a weighted feel and don’t mind a bit of sound during your typing sessions. Conversely, if you prioritize a smooth, silent typing experience with minimal noise—ideal for shared workspaces or quiet environments—the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch's self-padding design and polished feel would satisfy your needs perfectly. Its soft, elastic nature gives you the luxurious smoothness without the auditory footprint that can sometimes accompany mechanical switches. Therefore, consider your typing style, the sound environment, and whether you lean more towards tactile feedback or linear fluidity as you make your decision.
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