Gateron Type A vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Gateron Type A and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron Type A, a linear switch, and the Gazzew U4T, a tactile switch, both offering unique features for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Type A is praised for its medium-weight feel and deep sound signature, making it a great choice for those seeking a balance between keypress feedback and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the U4T stands out with its distinctive 'thocky' sound profile and sharp tactile feedback, providing a satisfying auditory and tactile experience with every keystroke. While both switches have their strengths and appeal to different preferences, it's worth taking a closer look beyond these generalities to determine which switch would best suit your typing style and preference.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Type A and the Gazzew U4T both use housing materials that are designed to deliver a rich and deep sound profile when typing. The Type A features a nylon top housing that is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softness and ability to absorb sound effectively. In comparison, the U4T utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing that is also soft and delivers a similar rich and deep sound profile, often referred to as "boba plastic." Both switches offer a tactile and satisfying typing experience, with the top housing playing a significant role in the sound produced when pressing down on the keys.
Despite both switches having similar top housing materials, their bottom housings differ in composition. The Type A boasts a nylon bottom housing that contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch, creating a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out keys. On the other hand, the U4T features a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, which is also soft and known for delivering a rich and deep typing sound. While the bottom housing of a switch may have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing is more influential in the sound produced when releasing a key, highlighting the importance of both components in creating a well-rounded typing experience.
In terms of housing materials, the Gateron Type A and the Gazzew U4T offer similar results in terms of sound profile and typing experience. Both switches utilize soft and sound-absorbing materials in their top and bottom housings to create a deep and rich sound when typing. While the Type A uses nylon for both its top and bottom housings, the U4T incorporates a proprietary Gazzew blend that is specifically designed to enhance the typing experience. Ultimately, both switches excel in delivering a tactile and satisfying typing experience with their carefully chosen housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles.
Weight
The Gateron Type A linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Type A has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the U4T, which does not disclose its actuation force. However, the U4T has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Type A has a bottom out force of 55 grams. This makes the Gateron Type A switch more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, such as for work or gaming. Conversely, the Gazzew U4T switch would be better suited for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a heavier push force. Both switches offer unique typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing intensity.
Travel distance
The Gateron Type A linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of how far the key travels when pressed. However, while both switches have the same travel distance, it is worth noting that the Type A is a linear switch, providing a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback, while the U4T is a tactile switch, offering a bump or tactile feedback when the key is actuated. Therefore, the main difference between the two switches lies in the type of feedback they provide rather than the actual travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70, whereas the Gazzew U4T 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 Gateron Type A linear switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes without being too loud. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch provides a bassy and thocky sound experience, delivering a deep and satisfying sound with every keystroke. The choice between the two would depend on whether you prefer a more neutral and moderate sound (Type A) or a richer, more pronounced bassy thock (U4T), taking into consideration other factors such as your keyboard and keycap choices.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Type A does not have specific descriptors provided, leaving us with limited information on tactile feedback and keypress experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T is known for its sharp tactile feedback, offering a high intensity feedback with a distinct tactile bump in every keypress. This characteristic can appeal to users who enjoy a pronounced tactile response when typing.
In conclusion, the Gateron Type A linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Type A provides a neutral and subdued sound profile, while the U4T delivers a bassy and thocky sound signature. When it comes to feel, the U4T excels in providing sharp tactile feedback, although information on the Type A's tactile experience is limited. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Type A linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, you should consider your preference for actuation force and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a neutral or more subdued sound profile, the Type A may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force and a bassy or thocky sound profile, the U4T might be the more suitable choice. Additionally, if you enjoy a sharp tactile feedback, the U4T would be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
