Gazzew U4Tx vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the Gazzew U4Tx and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer distinct characteristics are the Gazzew U4Tx and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear. The Gazzew U4Tx switches offer a unique combination of qualities, marrying the best of both worlds. With a refined sound profile, these switches provide a satisfying "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sensation. The sharp, tactile bump ensures a luxurious typing experience that is both acoustically pleasing and tactile. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear linear switches offer a smooth and high-pitched typing experience. These switches feature a transparent polycarbonate top housing and a UHMWPE bottom housing, allowing for maximum customization with RGB lighting. The lightly lubed POM stem ensures minimal friction and a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. While these general points highlight some of the key differences between the two switches, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew U4Tx and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their differing properties. The U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," provides a rich and deep sound due to its softness. In contrast, the WS Aurora Clear features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate, known for its stiffness, contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. While both materials provide unique sound profiles, the U4Tx's Gazzew blend delivers a softer and deeper tone, while the WS Aurora Clear offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of these switches also contribute to their sound signatures. The Gazzew U4Tx utilizes the same proprietary Gazzew blend for its bottom housing, resulting in a rich and deep sound profile when typing. However, the WS Aurora Clear switches employ a newer material called UHWMPE for their bottom housing. This material offers a very bright sound signature, producing resonant clacks when typing. Thus, the U4Tx's Gazzew blend and the WS Aurora Clear's UHWMPE provide distinct sound experiences, with the Gazzew blend emphasizing depth, and the UHWMPE bringing brightness and resonance.
When it comes to the overall sound profile of these switches, the combination of top and bottom housing materials plays a crucial role. Pressing down on a switch will predominantly exhibit the qualities of the bottom housing. Consequently, the Gazzew blend bottom housing in the U4Tx provides a deeper impact and sound when bottoming out. Conversely, the WS Aurora Clear's UHWMPE bottom housing contributes to a bright and resonant sound during typing. On the other hand, the top housing material has a more pronounced effect on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, switch users can expect differences in both the bottom-out and release sound profiles based on the housing materials chosen.
In conclusion, the Gazzew U4Tx and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches offer contrasting sound profiles due to their different housing materials. The U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housings provide a softer, deeper sound, while the WS Aurora Clear's polycarbonate top and UHWMPE bottom housings create a sharper, higher-pitched, and more resonant sound. While both switches have unique sound characteristics, it is important to consider the combination of top and bottom housing materials in order to achieve the desired sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. The actuation force of the U4Tx switch is unknown, while the WS Aurora Clear has an actuation force of 53 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of around 65 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch like the WS Aurora Clear, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This lighter option is suitable for keyboards used at work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the U4Tx with its heavier actuation force. This heavier force can provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience.
In terms of the force required for triggering a keystroke, the actuation force of the U4Tx is unavailable, making it difficult to compare directly to the 53 grams of the WS Aurora Clear. However, both switches have similar bottom out forces of around 65 grams, ensuring a consistent typing experience when fully depressing the keys.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Gazzew U4Tx and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear differ, both switches have a similar bottom out force. Whether someone prefers a lighter or heavier switch will depend on their personal preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, it is evident that there is a difference in their respective distances. The U4Tx has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Aurora Clear has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. While both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, it is important to note that the U4Tx offers a slightly shallower depth compared to the WS Aurora Clear. If you are a gamer seeking faster response times, the U4Tx's shorter travel distance may be the preferred option. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feeling when pressing down a key, the WS Aurora Clear's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference, with the U4Tx providing a slightly shorter and the WS Aurora Clear offering a slightly longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00.
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 is best described as having a deep, resonant "thock" sound when bottoming out, along with a whisper-quiet sound when topping out. This combination creates a cleaner and more refined sound profile. The U4Tx switches offer a bassy sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range that gives a sense of depth and richness to the sound. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switches have a high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound, the U4Tx switches would be a better choice. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, it is advisable to consider these factors when aiming for a specific sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Gazzew U4Tx switches provide a sharp tactile bump with each and every keypress, offering a high feedback intensity. This means that the tactile feedback is strong and crisp, allowing for a distinctly felt keystroke experience. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switches offer a buttery and mild typing experience. The term "buttery" implies a smooth and fluid keystroke, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The switches also have a polished finish, which reduces friction and provides a sleek typing experience. The mild characteristics of these switches make them approachable to most users and offer a safe middle-ground typing experience. Overall, if you prefer a sharper and more distinct tactile feedback, the U4Tx switches would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a smoother and more uniform typing sensation, the WS Aurora Clear switches would be more suitable for you.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer a luxurious typing experience that combines a refined sound profile with a sharp tactile bump. They provide a bassy sound profile and a high feedback intensity, making them ideal for those who enjoy a deeper and richer sound with distinct tactile feedback. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switches offer a smooth and high-pitched typing experience, resulting in a sharp and crisp sound with a buttery and mild typing feel. These switches are particularly suitable for those who prefer a more gentle and effortless typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the Gazzew U4Tx and the WS Aurora Clear switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel. However, both switches offer unique qualities that can contribute to an enjoyable mechanical keyboard typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a refined sound profile with a sharp tactile bump, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. These switches provide a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out, complemented by a whisper-quiet topping out sound. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, these switches offer a luxurious typing experience that is both acoustically pleasing and tactile. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch is the way to go. With a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, these switches allow for personalized lighting effects. The WS Aurora Clear switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams and provide a satisfyingly smooth keystroke, making them a great choice if you value a buttery, polished, or mild typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel, as they offer distinct characteristics for a tailored typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
