Gazzew U4Tx vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Gazzew U4Tx and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gazzew U4Tx and the HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The U4Tx switch offers a luxurious typing experience with a sharp tactile bump and a refined sound profile that combines the best of both worlds. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch boasts a unique construction with a softer acoustics profile and a distinctively crisp resonance. While the U4Tx is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Muted', and 'Sharp', the Xinhai falls into the categories of 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', and 'Creamy'. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew U4Tx and the HMX Xinhai both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The U4Tx features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing known for its softness and rich sound profile, while the Xinhai utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that delivers a sharper and crisper sound. The contrast between the two materials lies in their stiffness, with the Gazzew blend providing a deeper sound due to its softness, while the polycarbonate offers a clearer and more resonant sound. Both materials have their own aesthetic appeal as well, with the translucent nature of polycarbonate being ideal for RGB lighting effects.
On the bottom housing side, the Gazzew U4Tx once again utilizes its proprietary blend to deliver a rich and deep sound profile, while the HMX Xinhai employs nylon for a fuller and deeper sound quality. Nylon's softer nature allows for the absorption of more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Gazzew blend. The difference in sound profiles between the two bottom housing materials can lead to varied typing experiences for users, with the nylon providing a deeper typing sound compared to the Gazzew blend's richness.
In terms of overall typing experience, the choice between the Gazzew U4Tx and the HMX Xinhai will depend on individual preferences in sound and feel. The bottom housing material will impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, with the Gazzew blend offering a softer and richer experience, while the nylon provides a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the top housing material will affect the sound when a key is released, with the Gazzew blend producing a rich and deep sound, and the polycarbonate creating a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, users can achieve similar results with both switches, but the choice of housing material will cater to different sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences. The U4Tx has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, providing a medium level of resistance, while its actuation force is unknown. On the other hand, the Xinhai offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Xinhai switch ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the U4Tx switch would be a better choice for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a higher actuation force without a drastic difference in bottom out force. Ultimately, the weight of the switch is a crucial factor to consider based on personal preference, ensuring a comfortable typing experience tailored to individual needs.
Travel distance
The Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Xinhai for faster response times, while those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the U4Tx. However, individuals who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the U4Tx with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $3.19.
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 tactile switch offers a deep and rich bassy tone during key presses, giving off a luxurious and refined sound profile that is muted and soft. This creates a quieter typing experience that is still acoustically pleasing. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is described as clacky, providing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. Depending on personal preference, users may enjoy the bassy and muted sound of the U4Tx or the clacky and sharp sound of the Xinhai.
In terms of feel, the Gazzew U4Tx switch is noted for its sharp tactile feedback, offering a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like sensation that gives keys a lively feel with an elastic feedback. Additionally, the Xinhai switch offers a creamy typing experience, with a smooth and buttery feel that makes typing effortlessly glide across the keys. Users who prefer a strong tactile feedback may lean towards the U4Tx, while those who enjoy a bouncy and creamy typing experience may favor the Xinhai.
Overall, both the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The U4Tx provides a refined and muted typing experience with a sharp tactile bump, while the Xinhai delivers a clacky and bouncy feel with a creamy typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Additionally, keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also vary depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you enjoy a medium bottom out force and a luxurious typing experience with a deep, resonant sound profile, the U4Tx may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a softer acoustics profile, and a sharper, clacky sound, the Xinhai could be more suited to your tastes. Consider your sound and feel preferences carefully when selecting between these two switches to ensure you find the perfect fit for your typing style.
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