Outemu Crystal vs. Gazzew LT
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Gazzew LT switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Crystal and the Gazzew LT. Both switches fall under the linear category, offering a smooth typing experience without the tactile bump. The Crystal switches are well-regarded for their elastic feel and medium-light weight, providing a unique linear typing sensation. Additionally, they produce a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT switches boast an alluring lilac hue and offer a delightful auditory symphony with their deep, resonant thockiness. These switches are known for their seamless glide with every keystroke, making them incredibly satisfying to use. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best switch choice based on your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
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
3.20 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Gazzew LT differ in composition, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Crystal utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and clarity. This creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, perfect for those seeking a more defined typing experience. Additionally, the top housing's translucency allows for the enhancement of RGB lighting effects. Conversely, the Gazzew LT features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This unique plastic blend offers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Typists who prefer a more mellow and immersive auditory experience may find the Gazzew LT's top housing to be their preferred choice.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Crystal and the LT boast polycarbonate and Gazzew blend materials, respectively. The polycarbonate bottom housing in the Crystal contributes to a similar crisp and resonant sound as its top housing counterpart. The combination of both top and bottom housings working in harmony results in a consistent and uniform sound profile throughout each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing adds to its rich sound profile, further enhancing the overall acoustic experience. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, making the Gazzew LT a favorable choice for typists who prioritize tactile feedback.
While there are distinctions between the materials used in the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Crystal and the Gazzew LT, they ultimately contribute to similar outcomes. The polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Crystal combine to create a cohesive and sharp sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience. Similarly, the Gazzew LT's use of proprietary Gazzew blend materials in both top and bottom housings ensures a consistent and rich sound profile with an emphasis on depth and softness. Regardless of the chosen housing materials, both switches offer unique auditory characteristics that cater to individual preferences, allowing typists to find the perfect match for their typing style.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, a clear distinction can be made in terms of the weight. The Crystal exhibits a relatively lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while its bottom out force stands at 55 grams, which can be considered medium-light. On the other hand, the LT's actuation force remains unknown, leaving that aspect open-ended. However, it compensates for this uncertainty with a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, qualifying as medium-heavy.
For those seeking a lighter typing experience, a switch like the Crystal would be a suitable choice. The actuation force of 45 grams allows for comfortable and effortless typing, which is especially beneficial for extended periods of work or prolonged gaming sessions. In contrast, individuals who prefer a more substantial and robust typing feel may opt for a switch with a heavier force. In this case, the Gazzew LT linear switch with its 65-gram bottom out force would meet their preferences.
Although the actuation force of the LT switch remains unknown, it is likely that users who desire a similar experience to the Crystal switch can achieve comparable results. By selecting a switch with an actuation force similar to 45 grams, they can attain a light and comfortable typing experience akin to the Crystal. Conversely, those favoring a heavier actuation force, aligned with the LT's 65-gram bottom out force, can enjoy a more substantial typing experience with the LT switch.
In summary, the Outemu Crystal linear switch presents a medium-light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Gazzew LT linear switch offers an undisclosed actuation force and a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, it is clear that the Crystal has a longer travel distance of 4.0mm, while the LT has a shorter travel distance of 3.2mm. The Crystal's travel distance is more traditional, providing a deeper key press experience, while the LT's shorter travel distance is favored by gamers for its faster response time. If you prioritize a responsive typing experience, the 3.2mm travel distance of the LT would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more substantial depth to your keystrokes, the Crystal's 4.0mm travel distance would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision depends on personal preference and the desired feel while typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, whereas the Gazzew LT 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 Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile. These switches have a unique acoustic signature that can be described as chirpy, giving them a slight squeak when pressed. If you prefer a sharp and crisp sound, the Crystal's high-pitched nature might be a good fit for you. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT linear switch offers an auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness. With a bassy and thocky sound profile, the LT switch produces a satisfying deep "thud" or soft "knock" when pressed and released. Additionally, it features a low-pitched and bass-heavy tone. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal linear switch provides a typing experience with a fairly elastic type feel. It offers medium-light weight, resulting in a unique linear typing experience. Additionally, the Crystal switch has a polished finish, contributing to a smooth and refined keystroke. This polished finish reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. On the other hand, specific information regarding the feel of the Gazzew LT linear switch is currently unknown.
Overall, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal switch produces a chirpy sound with a smooth and polished feel. On the other hand, the LT switch delivers a deep and resonant thocky sound, but information about its feel is currently unavailable. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose between these switches to achieve your desired typing experience. If you are looking for a similar sound profile to the LT switch, the Crystal switch might provide a comparable experience due to its high-pitched nature.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a unique, elastic typing experience, the Crystal switch would be a great choice. These switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a deep, resonant thocky sound while typing, the LT switch would be a perfect fit. The LT switches also provide a seamless glide with every keystroke. Overall, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for key weight, sound profile, and typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
