TTC Brother vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The TTC Brother is praised for its lightweight actuation of 37g, delivering a tactile experience that is both responsive and effortless. With a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, this switch is a favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T is known for its harmonious blend of thockiness and sharp tactility, providing a bassy 'thock' sound profile along with assertive tactile feedback. While the Brother is categorized as 'Crunchy', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Stepped', the U4T is described as 'Bassy', 'Thocky', and 'Sharp'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
17.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The TTC Brother and the Gazzew U4T both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Brother's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffness, while the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. Despite their differences, both materials are designed to enhance the overall sound experience of the switches, with the polycarbonate providing a more resonant tone and the Gazzew blend offering a fuller sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Brother utilizes a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing qualities. Similarly, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also delivers a rich and deep sound profile, reflecting the same softness as its top housing material. While the materials may differ between the switches, both the Brother and the U4T focus on creating a well-rounded sound profile that caters to different preferences in terms of switch feel and sound.
When comparing the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it's clear that each component plays a crucial role. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. Both switches offer a unique combination of housing materials that work together harmoniously to create a satisfying typing experience, whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound like the Brother's polycarbonate housing or a rich and deep sound like the Gazzew U4T's proprietary blend.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. When it comes to bottom out force, the U4T is heavier with a force of 65 grams, while the Brother's bottom out force is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Brother switch may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the U4T provides a more substantial and satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances for keyboard switches. Gamers may prefer the Brother switch for its shorter travel distance, which can provide faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the U4T switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
The Gazzew U4T 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. This sound profile is sure to please clicky switch enthusiasts looking for a clear, crisp, and precise auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch provides a bassy 'thock' sound profile, combined with an assertive tactile feedback, creating a harmonious blend of sound and feel with each keystroke.
When it comes to feel, the Brother switch features an easy-to-press design with a light actuation force of just 37g, making typing effortless and comfortable while reducing finger fatigue during extended use. The tactile bump on the Brother switch is described as stepped, offering a distinct yet mild feedback compared to more pronounced tactile switches. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress, allowing for a high-intensity tactile experience.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Brother switch excels in delivering a crunchy sound signature and an easy-to-press typing experience with a stepped tactile bump, the U4T switch stands out for its bassy 'thock' sound profile and sharp tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches offer unique and satisfying qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Therefore, when it comes to choosing between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, your decision should be based on your preference for sound and feel. If you value a satisfyingly crunchy sound with a lightweight tactile experience, then the Brother switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a bassy 'thock' sound profile coupled with a sharp and intense tactile feedback, the U4T switch would be more suited to your preferences. Consider the type of typing experience you are looking for and whether you prioritize auditory or tactile satisfaction in order to make the best selection for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch comes down to your personal preference for sound and feel, ensuring that your keyboard experience is tailored to your liking.
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