Gazzew U4Tx vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Gazzew U4Tx and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew U4Tx and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stand out as top contenders in the market. The U4Tx offers a unique blend of tactile and quiet features, providing a satisfying typing experience with its sharp tactile bump and refined sound profile. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° from Gateron boasts a revolutionary design focused on silent typing, offering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound. While the U4Tx is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Muted', 'Sharp', the Zero Degree 0° does not fall into any specific category. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew U4Tx and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° differ significantly in terms of sound profile and aesthetic qualities. The U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housings are made of a special plastic blend that delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while its nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in housing materials results in distinct sound experiences for users of each switch.
While the U4Tx's Gazzew blend top and bottom housings both contribute to a rich and deep sound profile, the combination of the soft plastic material may lead to a more uniform sound experience throughout typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate and nylon housings split the sound profile, with the polycarbonate top offering a sharper sound on key release and the nylon bottom producing a deeper sound on key press. This dual-housing setup provides a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel.
In terms of aesthetics, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stands out with its clear polycarbonate top housing, which allows for RGB lighting effects to shine through. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx's opaque Gazzew blend top housing may not offer the same visual appeal for users looking to customize their keyboards with colorful lighting. Despite these differences, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in influencing sound profiles and overall typing experiences, highlighting the versatility and diversity of options available to keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, while the actuation force is unspecified. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. In terms of weight, the U4Tx is heavier with its 62.5 gram bottom out force compared to the Zero Degree 0°. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Zero Degree 0° with its lower actuation force, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the U4Tx with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that whether you choose the U4Tx or the Zero Degree 0°, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. This makes them both suitable options for those looking for a switch with a medium-length travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 is best known for its bassy and muted qualities, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses while minimizing noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch lacks a specific description in terms of sound, leaving its acoustic qualities a bit of a mystery. If you're looking for a switch that offers a bassy and muted sound profile, the U4Tx would be the way to go.
In terms of feel, the U4Tx tactile switch is described as having a sharp tactile feel, known for its high feedback intensity and a strong, crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. Unfortunately, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch does not have a specific description provided for its feel, making it difficult to compare in this aspect. If you are seeking a switch with a sharp tactile feel, the U4Tx would be a suitable choice for you.
Overall, if you prioritize a switch that offers a bassy and muted sound profile along with a sharp tactile feel, the Gazzew U4Tx may be the ideal option for you. However, if you are intrigued by the innovative design of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch and are willing to take a chance on its unknown sound and feel qualities, it could potentially provide you with a unique and fulfilling typing experience. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch or the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, your decision should be based on your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a deep, rich, and muted sound profile with a sharp tactile bump, then the U4Tx may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a silent typing experience with unparalleled smoothness and stability, then the Zero Degree 0° could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. Whether you prioritize sound or smoothness, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Choose wisely based on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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