Gazzew U4 vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Gazzew U4 and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gazzew U4 and the Jerrzi Violet mechanical keyboard switches, both are tactile switches known for their unique characteristics. The Gazzew U4 is praised for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, along with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation that provides a whisper-quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switches are noted for their smooth actuation and pleasingly poppy tactility, offering a balanced and enjoyable typing experience with a neutral sound signature. While the U4 offers a muted, low-pitched, and sharp sound profile, the Violet switches are described as stepped and neutral. Both switches have their own set of advantages, depending on the user's 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gazzew U4 and Jerrzi Violet both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Gazzew U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known for its softness and ability to deliver a rich and deep sound profile. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While the U4's top housing creates a warmer sound, the Violet's top housing offers a more crisp and clear sound, catering to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gazzew U4's proprietary Gazzew blend material continues to deliver a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both switches aim to enhance the sound experience for users, the choice between the Gazzew blend and nylon materials reflects a preference for a warmer sound with the U4 or a fuller sound with the Violet.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gazzew U4 and Jerrzi Violet play a significant role in shaping the sound profiles of these switches. The differences between the Gazzew blend and polycarbonate materials in the top housing result in distinct sound characteristics, with the Gazzew blend offering a richer sound while the polycarbonate provides a crisper sound. Similarly, the variation between the Gazzew blend bottom housing and the nylon bottom housing of the Violet influences the depth and fullness of the sound produced. By understanding how each housing material affects the sound profile, users can make an informed decision based on their preference for warmth, clarity, depth, or crispness in their typing experience.
Weight
The Gazzew U4 tactile switch and Jerrzi Violet tactile switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the U4 has a heavier force of 62 grams compared to the Violet switch, for which the bottom out force is unknown. The U4 provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the Violet switch remains a mystery in terms of its bottom out force. Depending on personal preference, the U4 may be more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Violet switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and comfort levels.
Travel distance
The Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches offer a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. The U4 is the shorter option with a 3.6 mm travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Violet with a slightly longer 3.7 mm travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
The Gazzew U4 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 U4 tactile switch is known for its muted and low-pitched noise profile, making it a great choice for those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch offers a neutral sound signature, providing a balanced and pleasant typing sound that is suitable for a wide range of users. Both switches offer different sound profiles, so choosing between the two would depend on personal preference and the setup in which they are being used.
In terms of feel, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is praised for its sharp tactile feedback, giving users a strong and distinctive tactile bump with each keystroke. This high feedback intensity can enhance the typing experience for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feel. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch is described as stepped, providing a more subdued tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. This gentler tactility may appeal to users who prefer a more subtle tactile experience while typing.
Overall, the Gazzew U4 and Jerrzi Violet tactile switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. While the U4 provides a muted and low-pitched sound with a sharp tactile bump, the Violet offers a more neutral sound with a stepped tactile sensation. Choosing between the two switches would depend on whether you prefer a stronger tactile feedback and quieter sound (U4) or a gentler tactile feel and balanced sound (Violet). Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfying typing experiences based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gazzew U4 and Jerrzi Violet tactile switches, you should consider your preference for a more pronounced tactile bump and a plush bottom-out sensation. If you enjoy a sharper tactile feedback and a quieter typing experience, the U4 switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and gentle tactile feel with a balanced sound profile, the Violet switches would suit your typing style better. Ultimately, the decision will come down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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