Gazzew U4Tx vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Gazzew U4Tx and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Marrying the best of both worlds, the Gazzew U4Tx and the Outemu Yellow Silver are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct qualities for different preferences. The Gazzew U4Tx is renowned for its refined sound profile, combining the deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out with the whisper-quiet stealth when topping out. With a sharp, satisfying tactile bump, this switch ensures a luxurious typing experience that is as acoustically pleasing as it is tactile. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver boasts a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who value speediness and responsiveness. While these general pointers provide a glimpse into their strengths, let's delve deeper to help you determine the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gazzew U4Tx and the Outemu Yellow Silver differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The U4Tx features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In contrast, the Yellow Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The U4Tx's top housing provides a softer and more mellow sound, while the Yellow Silver's polycarbonate top housing produces a more vibrant and pronounced sound. Aesthetically, if you prefer RGB lighting, the polycarbonate top housing of the Yellow Silver would be a suitable choice, as it allows for a clearer and more vivid display.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Gazzew U4Tx employs its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, once again referred to as "boba plastic." This material contributes to a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Therefore, typing on switches equipped with nylon bottom housing, such as the Yellow Silver, would offer a more resonant and deep sound compared to the U4Tx.
When a switch features different housing materials for its top and bottom, each contributes distinct elements to the overall sound and feel. Pressing down on the switch engages the bottom housing, making it more impactful on the bottom-out sound and feel. In the case of the U4Tx, with its Gazzew blend bottom housing, the softness of the material enhances the richness and depth of the bottom-out sound. Conversely, the top housing of the switch, whether it is the polycarbonate of the Yellow Silver or the Gazzew blend of the U4Tx, influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the top housing will determine the character of the sound when keys are released, contributing to either a sharper and crisper sound, or a mellow and softer sound.
In summary, the Gazzew U4Tx and the Outemu Yellow Silver exhibit contrasting sound profiles due to their different housing materials. The proprietary Gazzew blend used in the U4Tx's top and bottom housing enhances the richness and softness of the sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Yellow Silver delivers a sharper and more vibrant sound. In terms of the bottom housing, the nylon material of the Yellow Silver provides a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Gazzew blend used in the U4Tx. However, both switches offer unique and desirable sound profiles depending on individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The U4Tx has an unavailable actuation force, while the Yellow Silver requires 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the U4Tx has a heavier 65 grams, whereas the Yellow Silver has a slightly lighter 55 grams. The weight of the switches is worth considering, as it affects the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter switch may find the Yellow Silver more suitable, as it requires less force for actuation and bottoming out. This can be beneficial for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. Alternatively, for individuals who desire a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the U4Tx, with its heavier bottom out force, would be the preferred choice. Overall, while the specific actuation force for the U4Tx is not known, the comparison indicates that the Yellow Silver is lighter, both in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, making them suitable for individuals seeking a lighter switch option.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is 3.6 mm, while the travel distance of the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is 4 mm. Comparatively, the U4Tx has a shorter travel distance than the Yellow Silver. A travel distance of 4.0mm is considered traditional, while 3.0mm is the most shallow. It is worth noting that shorter travel distances have gained popularity, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. Choosing a switch with a shorter travel distance can provide a more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt. If you prefer a deeper and more satisfying key press, opt for the switch with the longer travel distance. Ultimately, your preference in travel distance should align with the level of responsiveness and depth you desire in your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50, whereas the Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40.
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 unique and refined experience. It combines the best of both worlds, providing a deep and resonant "thock" sound when bottoming out, while maintaining a whisper-quiet topping out sound. This creates a pleasing and luxurious typing experience that is both acoustically satisfying and tactile. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a neutral sound profile. It doesn't have any specific descriptors or characteristics mentioned in the information provided, suggesting that it likely offers a standard, moderate sound. While both switches offer different sound profiles, it's important to note that the sound is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is described as having a sharp tactile bump. This means that the feedback intensity of the switch is high, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. This makes it highly noticeable and satisfying for users who enjoy a pronounced tactile feel while typing. Unfortunately, no specific information is provided about the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch. However, linear switches typically offer a smoother keystroke without any tactile bump or feedback.
Taking into account the information provided, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch stands out for its refined sound profile and high feedback intensity. It offers a luxurious typing experience with a deep and resonant sound when bottoming out, combined with a whisper-quiet topping out sound. Additionally, the sharp tactile bump contributes to enhanced tactile feedback. In comparison, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile and does not provide any specific information about its feel. However, linear switches are generally smoother and lack the tactile feedback offered by the U4Tx switch. Ultimately, it's important to consider personal preferences and choose a switch that aligns with individual typing preferences and usage scenarios.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch that combines the best of both worlds in terms of sound and feel, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch would be a great choice for you. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, the U4Tx provides a luxurious typing experience with a sharp, satisfying tactile bump and a refined sound profile. The deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and the whisper-quiet topping out create an acoustically pleasing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch would be more suitable for you. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, the Yellow Silver switch offers speediness and responsiveness favored by gamers and typists. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style. Overall, both switches have their distinct advantages and are tailored to different typing preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for any newcomer.
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