Outemu Spring Breeze vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Outemu Spring Breeze and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Spring Breeze and the Gazzew U4 offer distinct typing experiences. The Spring Breeze is a clicky switch, known for its audible click sound upon actuation. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 is a tactile switch, offering a sharp and satisfying tactile bump without the loud click noise. The Spring Breeze is categorized as a clicky switch, while the U4 is categorized as a tactile switch with a muted, low-pitched, and sharp sound profile. If you prefer a more audible typing experience with a satisfying click, the Spring Breeze may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a tactile bump without the loud sound, the Gazzew U4 could be the better choice. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Spring Breeze and the Gazzew U4 have distinct differences despite both being designed to produce a deep and rich sound profile. The Spring Breeze utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, which is known for its softer plastic properties that absorb sound effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing, sometimes called "boba plastic," to achieve a similar deep and rich sound profile due to its softness. The choice between nylon and the Gazzew blend ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound experience.
One significant difference between the two housing materials lies in their composition and production process. While nylon is a classic switch housing material that has been used for many years and offers reliable sound absorption, the Gazzew blend is a newer proprietary plastic blend specifically designed to enhance sound quality. The use of this unique blend in the U4's housing demonstrates a commitment to innovation and experimentation in creating the optimal typing experience. However, both housing materials ultimately aim to deliver a similar result in providing a satisfying sound profile for users.
In terms of user experience, the choice between the Outemu Spring Breeze and the Gazzew U4 will come down to individual preferences in sound and feel. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing of a switch mean that the bottom housing will impact the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when a key is released. Whether one prefers the classic sound absorption of nylon in the Spring Breeze or the innovative blend of the Gazzew U4 for a rich and deep sound profile, both housing materials offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences. Ultimately, both switches aim to provide a satisfying tactile and auditory experience for users looking for a quality typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Spring Breeze requires 55 grams to fully depress, while the U4 requires 62 grams. This makes the U4 switch slightly heavier overall compared to the Spring Breeze. Those who prefer a lighter touch may enjoy the Spring Breeze for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may opt for the U4 for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a different feel in terms of force required, so users can choose based on their personal preference for typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered to be a more traditional length. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Spring Breeze switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the U4 switch. If you prefer a key switch with a longer travel distance for a more substantial typing experience, the Spring Breeze switch may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a faster response time and a more shallow key press, the U4 switch with a shorter travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Spring Breeze comes in at $3.10, whereas the Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50.
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 Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch is known for None, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is praised for its muted and low-pitched sound profile. This means that the U4 switch will provide a quieter and mellower typing experience compared to the potentially louder and sharper click of the Spring Breeze. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the type of keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Spring Breeze switch does not have any specific descriptors mentioned, whereas the Gazzew U4 switch is highlighted for its sharp tactile feedback. The U4 switch offers a distinct and intense tactile bump with each keypress, providing a satisfying typing experience that allows for precise feedback on each keystroke.
In conclusion, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer differing qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a quieter and softer typing experience with a subtle tactile feedback, the U4 switch may be the better choice for you. Whereas, if you enjoy a potentially louder clicky sound and are looking for a switch with unspecified tactile characteristics, you may prefer the Spring Breeze switch. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a 55-gram bottom out force and a clicky sound profile, the Outemu Spring Breeze switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with a 62-gram bottom out force, a tactile feel with a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, and a muted, low-pitched sound profile, then the Gazzew U4 switch would be the perfect fit for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of force, sound, and feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and needs.
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