TTC Brother vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one can significantly enhance your typing experience, and two noteworthy contenders are the TTC Brother and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches. The TTC Brother exemplifies the clicky switch genre, delivering a lightweight 37g actuation force that provides a satisfying, audible "crunch" with every keystroke. This switch is perfect for enthusiasts who thrive on feedback and enjoy the nostalgic sound of clicks, thanks to its articulate tactile bump that is both present and not overwhelmingly pronounced. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB offers a different approach with its tactile design, combining a luxurious "thock" sound when bottoming out and a quieter feel at the top of the keystroke. This switch caters to those who prefer a refined auditory experience paired with pronounced tactile feedback. Both switches have their unique appeal, making them suitable for different preferences; the Brother for its lively clickiness and the U4Tx for its sophisticated silence and tactile luxury. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Brother Clicky

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$5.50

$3.30 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The TTC Brother and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches utilize distinct materials for their top housings, which results in different acoustic properties. The Brother's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile, thanks to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. Its translucency also makes it an excellent option for RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB features a proprietary blend termed "boba plastic," which is softer and designed to produce a deeper, richer sound profile. While both materials serve to house the switch mechanism, their differing stiffness levels cater to unique auditory experiences, with the Brother favoring a crisper sound and the U4Tx delivering a fuller tonal quality.

When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches incorporate proprietary blends that exhibit similarities in sound performance. The Brother employs a nylon bottom housing, a traditional choice known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper, rounder sound profile. Conversely, the U4Tx RGB matches this approach with its own "boba plastic" blend for the bottom housing, also designed to produce a rich and deep sound experience. This alignment in material choices for the lower housing of both switches suggests that they may achieve similar auditory outcomes in terms of the tactile feel and bottom-out sound, as both materials share a softer characteristic that enhances sound absorption.

Overall, while the top housings of the TTC Brother and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches differ significantly, the bottom housings align in philosophy, both aiming for a deep and rich sound profile. This interplay between their respective top and bottom materials means that while the sound quality may vary upon key release, the bottom sound and feel are more consistent due to their softer compositions. Thus, users can expect a fulfilling typing experience, with the Brother's brightness offset by the U4Tx's richness, granting the users a choice in sound preference while still obtaining satisfying results.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch to the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, we see a notable difference in their respective actuation and bottom out forces. The Brother switch has a specified actuation force of 37 grams, indicating it's designed to provide a lighter touch that's conducive to prolonged typing and gaming sessions. On the other hand, the U4Tx RGB switch's actuation force is unknown, which complicates any direct comparison in that regard. However, the Gazzew switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, classified as medium-heavy, suggesting that it requires a more substantial push to fully engage the keystroke compared to the TTC Brother. Since the Brother switch lacks a bottom out force specification, we can't make a direct comparison in that area, but the established weight difference indicates that the TTC Brother is lighter, making it a better choice for those who prefer a softer touch. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx is heavier, which may appeal to users desiring a firmer feedback during typing.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The TTC Brother has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Gazzew switch offers a little more depth when pressed, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback during use. On the other hand, the TTC Brother, with its shorter travel distance, might cater to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more immediate key activation. Ultimately, while the difference is minimal, if you prefer a snappier feel, the TTC Brother would be the better choice, whereas the Gazzew U4Tx RGB could be ideal for those who appreciate a deeper, more deliberate press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, the distinctions are quite clear. The Brother is celebrated for its engaging "crunchy" sound, reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves, which adds a delightful auditory element to the typing experience. Its distinct click is satisfying and precise, making it a favorite among those who appreciate an audible feedback while typing. In contrast, while the U4Tx RGB may not have specific descriptors provided for its sound, it is known for producing a refined sound profile that incorporates the deeper "thock" when bottoming out. This presents a contrast to the Brother's sharp clicks, suggesting that the U4Tx may offer a more subdued yet sophisticated auditory experience.

In terms of feel, the TTC Brother excels with its lightweight actuation force of just 37g, making key presses effortless and enjoyable. The easy-to-press characteristic minimizes finger fatigue, allowing for long typing sessions without strain. Furthermore, its stepped tactile feedback ensures that typists can feel the progression of their keystrokes distinctly, providing a sense of control. On the other hand, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB's specific tactile characteristics are not detailed, its reputation suggests that it also delivers a satisfying tactile experience, though it likely leans more toward a consistent and sharp tactile bump compared to the Brother's stepped feel.

In conclusion, while both switches cater to different auditory preferences, the TTC Brother stands out for those looking for an unmistakable clicky sound and a light, easy-to-press feel. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB likely appeals to individuals who seek a quieter yet still tactile experience without the sharpness of a click. Ultimately, choosing between them will depend on whether one prioritizes the distinctive sound and feel of a clicky switch or the more refined, subtle qualities of a tactile switch.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you find joy in the satisfying sound and feel of clicky switches, enjoy light actuation forces, and generally favor tactile feedback that is both articulate and fun, the Brother switch will suit you well—especially for gaming and casual typing, where its lightweight and crunchy characteristics can enhance your experience. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more refined and balanced typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is an excellent choice. Its thocky sound profile combined with a sharp tactile bump makes it perfect for heavier typists who appreciate a luxurious feel without the added noise of clicky switches. Ultimately, consider what you prioritize most—if it’s sound and easy actuation, go for the Brother; if you prefer a solid tactile feedback and a quieter environment, choose the U4Tx RGB. Your typing comfort and satisfaction are what matter most, so select the switch that aligns best with your unique needs.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Brother Clicky

$5.50

$3.30 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more