Gazzew U4Tx vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gazzew U4Tx and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Marrying the best of both worlds, we're excited to introduce the Gazzew U4Tx switches and the Durock White Lotus switches, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique and desirable qualities. The U4Tx switches are celebrated for their refined sound profile, providing a satisfyingly sharp tactile bump and a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out. With their bassy and muted character, the U4Tx switches offer an acoustically pleasing typing experience. On the other hand, the White Lotus switches are designed with the discerning typist in mind. These switches offer a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance, making them ideal for work and extended typing sessions. Additionally, the White Lotus switches come with a removable light column, allowing for vibrant RGB lighting effects that add a captivating glow to your keyboard setup. While the U4Tx switches offer a more sharp and luxurious typing experience, the White Lotus switches provide an easy-to-press and low-pitched sensation. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
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 long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew U4Tx and the Durock White Lotus differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The U4Tx features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," which is soft and delivers a rich and deep sound profile. In contrast, the White Lotus utilizes a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing that provides a unique and premium feel. While both materials offer distinctive characteristics, the U4Tx's boba plastic is likely to produce a softer and more resonant sound compared to the White Lotus's top housing.
Regarding the bottom housings, the U4Tx employs the same proprietary Gazzew blend found in its top housing. This boba plastic material contributes to a rich and deep sound profile, enhancing the overall auditory experience. Conversely, the White Lotus utilizes a nylon bottom housing, a classic and softer plastic material that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This characteristic results in a deeper and fuller sound on switches incorporating nylon. Therefore, typing on the White Lotus may elicit a slightly duller and rounder sound due to the absorbing properties of the nylon bottom housing.
In terms of feel, the bottom and top housings of a switch play distinct roles. The U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend materials, whether in the top or bottom housing, are expected to deliver a consistent experience in terms of sound profile and feel. The same applies to the Durock White Lotus, despite utilizing different materials for the top and bottom housings. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more noticeable, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Meanwhile, the top housing's material will have a more significant influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, although the materials differ, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience, even if the specific characteristics of the sound and feel may vary slightly.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it becomes evident that they have different characteristics. The actuation force of the U4Tx is not disclosed, while the White Lotus requires a force of 46 grams to initiate a keystroke. This signifies that the White Lotus has a lighter actuation force compared to the U4Tx, making it more favorable for extended typing sessions or extended gaming sessions where fatigue can become a factor.
Regarding the bottom out force, the U4Tx has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the White Lotus possesses a bottom out force of 56 grams, indicating that it is lighter compared to the U4Tx. This lighter bottom out force can be ideal for individuals who prioritize a smoother and less forceful typing experience.
It is important to note that if the actuation force of the U4Tx remains unknown, we are unable to make a direct comparison between the actuation forces of the two switches. However, based on the disclosed information, we can still draw the conclusion that the White Lotus has a lighter actuation force compared to the U4Tx.
Ultimately, when considering weight, individuals must weigh the advantages of lighter switches allowing for longer periods of typing or gaming with the potential drawbacks of potentially reduced tactile feedback. On the other hand, heavier switches can offer a more substantial typing experience but may lead to faster fatigue. By considering the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gazzew U4Tx and Durock White Lotus, individuals can make an informed decision based on their personal preferences and typing needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The U4Tx has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter compared to the White Lotus' travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the White Lotus being slightly more in line with the standard. However, with the growing trend of shorter travel distances, the U4Tx offers a more responsive feel, particularly favored by gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the White Lotus provides a sense of depth that some users may prefer. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness and depth. Either way, both switches offer satisfying tactile feedback, ensuring a similar typing experience despite the slight variance in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
The Gazzew U4Tx 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 and Durock White Lotus switches offer distinct qualities. The U4Tx switches provide a deep and resonant "thock" sound when bottoming out, thanks to their bassy sound profile. At the same time, they offer a whisper-quiet topping out sound, giving users a satisfying and acoustically pleasing typing experience. On the other hand, the White Lotus switches have a low-pitched sound, with a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. These switches produce a softer and quieter sound overall, making them suitable for work and extended typing sessions where the user prefers a more tranquil environment. It is important to note that the sound produced by switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the U4Tx switches provide a sharp tactile experience. With a strong and crisp tactile bump, users can feel the feedback intensity distinctly with each keypress. This high feedback intensity enhances the typing experience and provides a responsive feel. On the other hand, the White Lotus switches offer an easy-to-press experience. These switches have a light actuation force, requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The White Lotus switches also have a mild and subtle feel, offering a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. Overall, the U4Tx switches provide a sharper and more tactile feel, while the White Lotus switches offer a low-impact and easy-to-press typing feel.
In conclusion, the Gazzew U4Tx and Durock White Lotus switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The U4Tx switches provide a refined and luxurious sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sound. They also offer a sharp and high feedback tactile experience. On the other hand, the White Lotus switches have a low-pitched sound with a mellow and bass-heavy tone. They offer an easy-to-press experience with a light actuation force, making typing effortless and comfortable. The White Lotus switches also have a mild and subtle feel, appealing to a wide range of users. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch that combines both a deep, resonant sound profile and a whisper-quiet topping out sound, the Gazzew U4Tx switches are the ideal choice for you. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, these medium-heavy switches provide a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, ensuring a luxurious typing experience. The U4Tx switches offer a bassy and muted sound, creating a deeper and quieter typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter tactile switch that strikes the perfect balance between tactility and comfort, the Durock White Lotus switches are the way to go. With a bottom out force of 56 grams, these medium-light switches are designed for work and extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. The White Lotus switches provide a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a more mellow tone and a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various purposes.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gazzew U4Tx and Durock White Lotus switches depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel. Whether you prioritize a deep and resonant typing experience or a lighter, more subtle feel, both switches offer unique characteristics for an enjoyable typing experience. By considering the sound and feel attributes described, you can make an informed decision that enhances your overall typing experience.
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