Gazzew U4Tx vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gazzew U4Tx and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gazzew U4Tx and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear. The Gazzew U4Tx switches are known for providing the best of both worlds, offering a refined sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out, combined with a whisper-quiet topping out experience. With a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, typing on these switches promises a luxurious and acoustically pleasing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches elevate the office and work environment with their exceptional design. These linear switches reduce switch noise through cleverly designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, offering unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out. Unlike traditional silent switches, they forgo silicone dampeners, resulting in a distinct typing experience that lacks the usual cushioned sensation. With a seamless blend of tranquility and precision, these switches deliver a unique typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew U4Tx and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches have some similarities and differences. Both switches have a soft housing material that contributes to a rich and deep sound profile. The U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housings, sometimes referred to as "boba plastic," create a soft and absorbing surface that enhances the sound when pressing down on a key. Similarly, the WS Silent Linear's nylon top and bottom housings are relatively softer plastics that absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
However, there are also differences between the two housing materials. The U4Tx utilizes a proprietary plastic blend for both the top and bottom housings, while the WS Silent Linear uses nylon for its housing material. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. It absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, providing a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew blend housing material is specifically developed by Gazzew, often called "boba plastic." Its unique composition delivers a rich and deep sound profile, adding to the overall tactile experience of the switch.
When it comes to the impact of the housing materials, the U4Tx and WS Silent Linear differ in terms of which housing has a greater influence on the overall typing experience. In the U4Tx, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear's top housing has more impact on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction suggests that users will experience variations in sound and feel depending on the specific switch and its housing material.
In conclusion, while both the Gazzew U4Tx and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches offer soft housing materials that contribute to a deep and rich sound profile, they differ in terms of the specific materials used. The Gazzew blend housing material is a proprietary plastic blend, while the WS Silent Linear employs nylon as its housing material. Additionally, the U4Tx's bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the WS Silent Linear's top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. These distinctions highlight the unique qualities and experiences that each switch offers.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it is worth noting that both switches have unavailable information regarding their actuation forces. However, the U4Tx has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the WS Silent Linear has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also falling under the medium-heavy category.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. This allows for reduced finger fatigue and enables a smoother typing experience. In this case, both switches may provide similar results as the actuation forces are not specified. However, for those who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience, opting for switches with heavier forces would be ideal.
While the actuation forces remain unknown for both switches, the difference in bottom out force implies that the Gazzew U4Tx would potentially provide a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on an individual's preference for key response, finger fatigue, and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The U4Tx has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Silent Linear has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become more popular in recent times. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, then the U4Tx with its slightly shorter travel distance would be the better option. However, for those who prefer a deeper key press, the WS Silent Linear with its slightly longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying experience. Ultimately, personal preference will play a significant role in determining which switch is the better choice.
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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20.
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 switches offer a unique combination of deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sound. This results in a clean and refined sound profile that is both satisfying and luxurious. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches provide a neutral sound profile that is softer and quieter compared to regular switches. It is also described as subdued, offering a more subtle sound signature. While the U4Tx switches are characterized as bassy and muted, the WS Silent Linear switches are described as neutral, muted, and subdued. These descriptions imply that the U4Tx switches may provide a deeper and richer sound experience, while the WS Silent Linear switches focus on minimizing noise and creating a more tranquil typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gazzew U4Tx switches are known for their sharp tactile bump, providing a high feedback intensity with each keypress. This means that the tactile bump is strong and crisp, making it distinct and noticeable. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches offer a mild typing experience. As a linear switch, it lacks the tactile feedback of the U4Tx switches, providing a gentler typing experience overall. The WS Silent Linear switches aim to create a comfortable typing experience that is approachable to most, with qualities that stand in a safe middle-ground zone.
In conclusion, both the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switches and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches offer unique qualities that appeal to different preferences. The U4Tx switches provide a cleaner, refined sound profile with a deep and resonant "thock", along with a satisfying sharp tactile bump. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches excel in reducing noise and offering a more tranquil typing experience without the cushioned sensation typically associated with silent switches. While the U4Tx switches focus on an acoustically pleasing and tactile typing experience, the WS Silent Linear switches prioritize responsiveness, a satisfying bottom-out, and a seamless blend of tranquility and precision. Overall, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, if the goal is to achieve similar results, both switches offer a muted sound profile, ensuring a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular mechanical switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch or the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and needs. If you prioritize a refined sound profile with a mix of a deep, resonant "thock" and whisper-quiet topping out sound, along with a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, then the U4Tx would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a seamless blend of tranquility and precision, with reduced switch noise and unparalleled responsiveness, the WS Silent Linear would be a suitable option. Both switches offer a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The U4Tx is described as having a bassy sound, while the WS Silent Linear has a more neutral and subdued sound. In terms of feel, the U4Tx provides a sharp tactile bump with high feedback intensity, while the WS Silent Linear offers a more mild and gentle typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel. Consider what type of typing experience you desire and choose accordingly.
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