Gazzew U4Tx vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Gazzew U4Tx and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Marrying the best of both worlds, the Gazzew U4Tx switches are ingeniously designed to provide a cleaner, refined sound profile. These tactile switches offer a luxurious typing experience with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet stealth when topping out. The sharp, satisfying tactile bump ensures precise feedback with every press. On the other hand, for those seeking a more delicate typing experience or often working for long periods, the SP-Star Yanyu switches could be the perfect choice. With a material blend that enhances its crisp sound profile, the Yanyu switches offer a neutral and mild typing experience. Described as "thocky," "feathery," "subtle," and "polished," these linear switches provide a unique feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gazzew U4Tx and the SP-Star Yanyu differ in terms of their housing materials. The U4Tx features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," which provides a softness that delivers a rich and deep sound profile. In contrast, the Yanyu is equipped with a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, which offers a sound profile that is pleasant and slightly brighter. While both switches have unique characteristics in their top housing materials, they may yield similar results in terms of their sound profiles.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gazzew U4Tx utilizes the same proprietary Gazzew blend as its top housing. This bottom housing material, also referred to as "boba plastic," contributes to the switch's rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu incorporates a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing, which provides a different set of qualities. This blend creates a unique sound profile that is pleasant and slightly brighter. Consequently, when pressing down on these switches, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel.
It is important to note that if a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities brought by each housing material will be divided between the upper and lower parts of the switch. When users press down on these switches, they will primarily experience the characteristics of the bottom housing material, as it has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound produced when letting go of a key is predominantly influenced by the top housing material. Therefore, the choice of housing material in both the top and bottom housings contributes to the overall sound profile and tactile experience of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there is limited information available to make a direct comparison. The U4Tx has an actuation force of an unknown number of grams, while the Yanyu also has an unknown actuation force. However, based on the available information, we can determine that the U4Tx has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range. On the other hand, the Yanyu has a bottom out force of 43 grams, which is considered light.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force allows for less strain on the fingers and can lead to increased comfort during prolonged use. This is especially beneficial for keyboards used in work environments or for gamers who engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users prefer a switch with a heavier actuation force as it provides a more substantial typing experience. These users prioritize a stronger push feel and the feedback that comes with it.
While the precise actuation forces for the U4Tx and Yanyu switches are unknown, it is important to note that lighter or heavier options can be chosen for both switches depending on personal preference. However, based on the available bottom out force information, the U4Tx is heavier than the Yanyu. Individuals seeking a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force may find the U4Tx more suitable, while those desiring a lighter typing experience may prefer the Yanyu.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is evident that there is a slight difference between the two. The U4Tx has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Yanyu has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. However, it is important to note that the U4Tx offers a slightly shallower travel distance compared to the Yanyu. If quick and responsive keystrokes are more important to you, opting for the U4Tx with its shorter travel distance might be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial and tactile feel, the Yanyu's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of key depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 switches offer a unique combination of deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet sound when topping out. This creates a clean and refined sound profile that is satisfying to the ears. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switches have a crisp sound profile, described as "neutral." This means that they produce a moderate sound without any distinct characteristics. While the U4Tx has a bassy and muted sound, the Yanyu has a thocky sound. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gazzew U4Tx switches are known for their sharp tactile feedback. The tactile bump is prominent and provides a high feedback intensity, giving a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switches offer a more mild and approachable feel. They fall in a safe middle-ground zone, offering a gentle typing experience without any excessive characteristics. Additionally, the Yanyu switches can be described as feathery, meaning they have an exceptionally light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The U4Tx switches do not have any specific feel descriptors mentioned, so it is unknown how they compare in terms of characteristics such as featheriness or subtleness.
In conclusion, the Gazzew U4Tx switches excel in providing a clean and refined sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump. They offer a sharp and high feedback typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switches have a crisp and neutral sound profile with a more gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. They have a feathery characteristics which makes them comfortable for extended typing sessions. Overall, both switches have their unique qualities and can provide a pleasurable typing experience, albeit with different characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch or the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you value a luxurious typing experience with a sharp, satisfying tactile bump and a refined sound profile, the U4Tx may be the perfect choice for you. Its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams ensures a stable typing experience. Additionally, the U4Tx has a bassy and muted sound profile, making it suitable for those who prefer a deeper and quieter typing sound.
On the other hand, if you are seeking a more delicate and gentle typing experience, especially for long periods of typing, the Yanyu switch may be more suitable. With its light bottom out force of 43 grams, the Yanyu reduces finger fatigue and allows for comfortable extended typing sessions. It has a mild, feathery, subtle, and polished feel, offering a safe and approachable middle-ground typing experience. The Yanyu also produces a thocky and neutral sound, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed.
Ultimately, your choice between the U4Tx and the Yanyu should be based on the specific characteristics you value in a switch, such as the level of tactile feedback, typing force, and sound profile. Consider your typing preferences and needs, and select the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience.
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