Bsun Pine vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The BSUN Pine and Gazzew U4Tx are both tactile mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Pine switch is known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing clear-cut feedback and fast action for those who prefer a direct and no-nonsense tactility. On the other hand, the U4Tx switch marries the best of both worlds with a cleaner, refined sound profile that produces a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out, along with quiet operation when topping out. Each press on the U4Tx switch delivers a sharp, satisfying tactile bump for a luxurious typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and specific typing needs. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Pine and the Gazzew U4Tx both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The Pine's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while the U4Tx's Gazzew blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound profile because of its softness. Despite these differences, both top housings aim to enhance the overall typing experience with distinct auditory feedback. Additionally, the translucency of the Pine's polycarbonate housing is ideal for RGB lighting setups, making it a visually appealing option for enthusiasts.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Pine's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also offers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. Both bottom housings aim to create a more rounded and duller sound, enhancing the typing experience for users who prefer switches with a softer touch. While the materials used in the bottom housings differ, the goal of creating a satisfying typing sensation remains consistent between the two switches.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the key, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when a key is released. This distribution of qualities allows for a more balanced and nuanced typing experience, with the unique properties of each housing material contributing to the overall sound profile of the switch. Whether using the Pine with its polycarbonate and nylon housing or the U4Tx with its Gazzew blend housing, users can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to their preferences.
Weight
The actuation force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch is 45 grams, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch does not have a specified actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Pine is 65 grams, slightly heavier than the U4Tx's 62.5 grams. This means that the Pine requires a slightly heavier push to trigger a keystroke and bottom out compared to the U4Tx. The Pine can provide a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, while the U4Tx may be lighter and more suitable for longer typing or gaming sessions. Overall, the Pine offers a medium-heavy feel, while the U4Tx provides a medium tactile experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the Pine for a heavier feel or the U4Tx for a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular in the market. Gamers may prefer the Bsun Pine for its slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, as it can provide faster response times. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx with its 3.6 mm travel distance may offer a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Overall, while the Pine is slightly shorter and the U4Tx is slightly longer in terms of travel distance, both switches offer a similar experience and will provide satisfactory results depending on individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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 Bsun Pine switch is best described as offering a clear and distinct clicking noise, providing an auditory confirmation of each key press. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switch is characterized by a deep and resonant "thock" sound when bottoming out, combined with a quiet topping out for a more subtle overall sound profile. The U4Tx switch offers a bassy sound profile that is rich and deep, while the Pine switch focuses more on a sharp and direct click with each press, resulting in a louder typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Pine switch is known for providing an invigorating and sharp tactile feel, with a prominent and distinct tactile bump that is reactive and snappy. It offers a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming, creating an immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switch also features a sharp tactile bump, providing a high level of feedback intensity that can be felt with each key press. Both switches offer a similar sharp and crisp tactile feel, ensuring a responsive and tactile typing experience.
Overall, both the Bsun Pine and Gazzew U4Tx switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch provides a louder clicking noise with a sharp tactile bump, while the U4Tx switch offers a more refined sound profile with a deep "thock" and a quiet topping out. In terms of feel, both switches provide a sharp and pronounced tactile bump for a responsive typing experience. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches offer a satisfying and tactile typing experience that cater to different preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and crave a sharp tactile bump with a quick bottom-out, the Pine switches may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you seek a medium bottom out force and enjoy a refined, cleaner sound profile with a luxurious typing experience that combines a deep "thock" on bottoming out and a quiet topping out, the U4Tx switches are worth considering. Both switches offer sharp tactile feedback, but the Pine provides an invigorating and snappy feel while the U4Tx delivers a sharp tactile bump. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider these aspects carefully to ensure the perfect match for your mechanical keyboard experience.
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