KTT Darling vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Darling and the Gazzew U4Tx stand out as top contenders. The KTT Darling, a linear switch, offers a typing sensation that is chewy and substantial, with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. This switch delivers a high-pitched, resonant sound upon bottoming out, providing a unique blend of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx, a tactile switch, offers a refined sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sound. Each press on the U4Tx provides a sharp, satisfying tactile bump, ensuring a luxurious typing experience that is both acoustically pleasing and tactile. When considering these switches, factors such as bounciness and clackiness for the Darling, and bassiness and sharpness for the U4Tx come into play. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Gazzew U4Tx have some key differences. The Darling features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. This is ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. This results in a different typing experience compared to the Darling.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Darling utilizes nylon to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound, which may be preferred by some users. In comparison, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, offering a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality.
While the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Gazzew U4Tx offer different sound profiles, the overall typing experience of each switch is impacted by both the top and bottom housing. The top housing affects the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Despite the differences in material, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, providing a variety of options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it's evident that they offer different typing experiences. The Darling has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience. In contrast, the U4Tx has an unknown actuation force and a heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for users seeking a more pronounced typing experience. Overall, the Darling is the lighter of the two switches, while the U4Tx is the heavier option. However, both switches offer a smooth and consistent typing experience, ensuring users will achieve similar results in terms of performance despite the variance in force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when compared to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Darling switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, providing a faster response time during gameplay. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the U4Tx switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
The Gazzew U4Tx 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 KTT Darling linear switch offers a high-pitched and resonant experience, providing a sharp and crisp sound profile that is engaging and tactile. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a deeper, bassy sound when bottoming out, but remains muted and quiet when topping out. Depending on personal preference, the Darling will provide a more energetic and vibrant typing experience, while the U4Tx will give a more subdued and refined auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is known for its bouncy and springy responsiveness, offering a lively typing sensation that adds a touch of bounce to each keystroke. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch provides a sharp and distinct tactile bump with each keypress, giving a strong and crisp feedback intensity. Depending on typing style and preference, the Darling will offer a more dynamic and lively typing experience, whereas the U4Tx will provide a more precise and defined tactile bump.
Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch excels in providing a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness, accompanied by a high-pitched and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a cleaner and refined sound experience with a deep, bassy bottoming out sound and a muted topping out sound, coupled with a sharp and satisfying tactile bump. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring a luxurious typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a more vibrant and energetic typing experience with the Darling, or a precise and tactile-focused experience with the U4Tx.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched sound, the Darling may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a cleaner, refined sound profile with a deep "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out experience, the U4Tx switch could be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a more tactile typing experience with the U4Tx or a linear, bouncy feel with the Darling. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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