KTT Ash Gray vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out in the tactile category are the KTT Ash Gray and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB. The KTT Ash Gray is celebrated for its balanced design, providing a substantial yet unobtrusive tactile response. Its light touch and crisp actuation create a satisfying typing experience that’s characterized by a mild yet noticeable feedback—perfect for users who seek comfort during long typing sessions without the distraction of overwhelming force. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB offers an impressive interplay of sound and feedback, featuring a deep "thock" when bottoming out and a quiet topping out, which enhances its luxurious typing feel. This switch combines a sharp tactile bump with a refined auditory profile, appealing to those who appreciate auditory feedback alongside tactile sensations. Both switches cater to different preferences in tactile experience and sound profile, making them appealing choices for typists seeking their ideal keyboard feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Ash Gray Tactile

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray switches and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches, a distinct contrast arises, particularly in their top housings. The Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffer nature. This property allows the switch to resonate more clearly, making it an excellent choice for RGB lighting applications, as the translucent nature of polycarbonate enhances the visual effect of the lighting. In stark contrast, the U4Tx RGB employs a proprietary Gazzew blend—often colloquially known as "boba plastic"—which is designed to deliver a richer and deeper sound profile. This softer material tends to absorb sound rather than amplify it, resulting in a more muted auditory experience. Thus, while both switches offer unique auditory characteristics, the balance leans towards the Ash Gray for clearer sound with lighter aesthetics, compared to the more profound, subdued performance of the U4Tx RGB.

The bottom housings of both switches present a more unified comparison, as each utilizes a relatively soft material. The Ash Gray features a nylon bottom housing, known for its classic utilization in switch design, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its sound-absorbing qualities. Similarly, the U4Tx RGB opts for the same proprietary Gazzew blend as its bottom housing, which contributes to a rich, nuanced auditory signature. The softness of both materials plays a significant role in how the switches feel and sound upon bottoming out, with the nylon in Ash Gray offering a traditional feel, while the Gazzew blend provides a modern twist with its unique texture and sound quality. Consequently, while both switches feature different approaches at the top housing level, the bottom housings align more closely in their contribution to sound and typing experience.

Ultimately, the differences in top housings lead to varied auditory experiences in action, while the softer materials of the bottom housings harmonize the overall performance. The Ash Gray's polycarbonate top will create a bright and resonant sound on release, ideal for fast typing scenarios where clarity is key. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB will excel in delivering a deeper, more subdued sound, suitable for users who prefer softer keystrokes. Despite these distinct characteristics, achieving a satisfactory typing experience from either switch is possible, as both also incorporate a level of softness in their bottom housings that capitalizes on rich, full sounds. Thus, users can expect somewhat similar outcomes through tactile feedback and auditory performance by selecting either option, depending on their personal preference for sound profiles and aesthetic preferences.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ash Gray features an actuation force of 38 grams, which is classified as medium-light, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB does not specify an actuation force, leaving an ambiguity in its feel during use. However, it does have a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorized as medium-heavy, which provides a more substantial resistance when fully pressed down. This indicates that the U4Tx RGB is heavier overall compared to the Ash Gray, especially in the bottom out force, which might appeal to those who enjoy a firmer tactile feedback. Consequently, while the Ash Gray is lighter and easier to press down, the U4Tx RGB offers a more robust typing experience, catering to different user preferences in tactile feedback.

Travel distance

The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Ash Gray the shorter option between the two, providing a more responsive feel that some gamers may prefer for quicker key presses. Conversely, the U4Tx RGB's greater travel distance can offer a more substantial typing experience, which might be favored by those who enjoy deeper key presses. Although the difference in travel distance is minor, it highlights the varying preferences in tactile feedback: if you lean towards faster response times, the Ash Gray would be the better choice, while the U4Tx RGB caters to those who appreciate a more pronounced actuation depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch delivers a neutral profile, characterized by a moderate actuation force requirement and sound level. This balance makes it versatile enough for various settings, whether you’re working in an office or typing at home. Its sound is unobtrusive, which is ideal for users who desire a more subtle auditory experience while still offering sufficient feedback. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch produces a deeper "thock" upon bottoming out, paired with a quieter but precise sound at the top of the keystroke. This unique sound profile adds depth to the typing experience, evoking a luxurious sensation, though specifics about its sound resonance aren’t detailed, making it crucial to consider the overall setup, including the keyboard and keycap choice, for an accurate sound representation.

In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch is designed for easy activation, requiring minimal force to engage. This makes it exceptionally comfortable for long typing sessions, preventing finger fatigue while still delivering pleasant tactile feedback. The mild characteristic of the Ash Gray ensures that its typing experience remains accessible and pleasant for most users, striking a harmonious balance between responsiveness and gentleness. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch seems to prioritize a more pronounced tactile bump, contributing to a luxurious typing feel. However, details on its specific actuation force and tactile nature are lacking, making it difficult to create a direct comparison in terms of feel.

In summary, both the KTT Ash Gray and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches offer valuable qualities tailored to different user preferences. The Ash Gray emphasizes a neutral sound and an easy-to-press feel, catering to those who appreciate simplicity and consistency. In comparison, the U4Tx RGB focuses on providing a deeper auditory experience with a prominent tactile bump, appealing to users who desire a more engaging and luxurious typing experience. Choosing between these options ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel, and each can deliver satisfying results based on different typing styles and setups.

Conclusion

To sum up, choosing between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prioritize a lighter touch and subtle tactile feedback, the Ash Gray is an excellent choice. Its 53-gram bottom-out force makes it particularly suitable for long typing sessions, as the light actuation helps to reduce finger fatigue, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned typists alike. This switch's neutral sound profile is versatile enough for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting.

On the other hand, if you value a more pronounced tactile experience and a richer sound signature, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB may be more up your alley. With its medium-heavy 65-gram bottom-out force, this switch provides a satisfying "thock" sound and a sharp tactile bump, lending a luxurious feel to your typing experience. It’s particularly advantageous for those who enjoy a more robust feedback with each keystroke and don’t mind the added resistance. The U4Tx RGB is well-suited for users who are looking for a switch that enhances both the auditory and tactile aspects of typing, especially in quieter environments where you want your key presses to have a more pronounced presence. Ultimately, consider how you type and what sound profile you prefer, and you'll find the right switch to elevate your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Ash Gray Tactile

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more