TTC Flame Red vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the TTC Flame Red and the Gazzew U4. The Flame Red switch is best known for its stunning visual appeal, thanks to its dazzling light diffuser, making it the ideal choice for those who prioritize aesthetics in their backlit, RGB keyboards. Typing on the Flame Reds provides a satisfying weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switch offers a different experience with its silent tactile design. Typing on these switches delivers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, accompanied by an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. Additionally, the U4s produce a whisper-quiet sound, perfect for those seeking a more subtle and subdued typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make the best decision in selecting the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

TTC Flame Red Linear

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The TTC Flame Red and the Gazzew U4 both use different housing materials for their top and bottom housings. The Flame Red utilizes a nylon top housing, while the U4 employs a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing. Although these materials differ, they both aim to deliver a rich and deep sound profile by utilizing their softness. The nylon top housing of the Flame Red is described as absorbing more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Gazzew blend top housing is renowned for its softness, resulting in a deep and full sound. Therefore, both switches strive to provide a comparable sound experience due to the characteristics of their respective top housings.

Moving on to the bottom housings, the Flame Red integrates a nylon bottom housing, while the Gazzew U4 utilizes its own proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing. Like the top housings, both materials serve to enhance the sound profile of the switch. Nylon, which is relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing on switches that use it. On the other hand, the Gazzew blend bottom housing, also known as "boba plastic," is designed to offer a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Consequently, these bottom housings strive to deliver similar qualities in generating a satisfying sound experience.

It's important to note that when a switch has different top and bottom housings, each housing material contributes unique attributes to the overall switch performance. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. Thus, while the Flame Red and the Gazzew U4 have distinct housing materials for their top and bottom, they both aim to optimize the sound profile by utilizing the specific qualities of each housing material. Therefore, users can expect similar sound results from both switches.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, slightly heavier than the U4's 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Flame Red requires 54 grams, while the U4 requires 62 grams. This makes the Flame Red switch lighter overall, as it has a lower actuation and bottom out force compared to the U4.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Flame Red switch would be a suitable choice as its actuation and bottom out force is lower. This makes it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue can be reduced. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial pushing feel and a stronger typing experience may opt for the Gazzew U4 tactile switch due to its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force.

In terms of similarities, both switches fall into the medium category in terms of force required. While the Flame Red is lighter overall, the difference between their actuation and bottom out forces is not significant. Therefore, individuals seeking similar results can expect comparable experiences with both switches, despite the slight variations in force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the Flame Red and the U4 will depend on personal preference for typing experience and desired force feedback.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is clear that the Flame Red has a longer distance of 4 mm, while the U4 has a slightly shorter distance of 3.6 mm. The Flame Red's 4.0 mm travel distance falls within the traditional range and offers a deeper feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the U4's 3.6 mm travel distance is slightly shallower, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking faster response times. For those who prefer a more responsive typing experience, the U4's shorter travel distance would be the better choice. However, it is important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt. In such cases, the Flame Red, with its longer travel distance, would be the preferred option for those seeking a more substantial depth. In summary, while the TTC Flame Red and Gazzew U4 have different travel distances, both can provide satisfying experiences depending on personal preferences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Flame Red switch is visually stunning, with a beautiful light diffuser that makes it perfect for backlit, RGB keyboards. When typing on these switches, users will experience a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. In terms of sound, the Flame Red switch has a neutral profile, suitable for both beginners and advanced users, and can be used in various environments such as home or work. As for feel, the Flame Red switch offers a mild typing experience with a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switch brings excitement with its silent tactile switches. Typing on these switches provides a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, giving a high feedback intensity. Users will also experience an unexpectedly plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation. The U4 switch has a sound profile that is whisper quiet, thanks to its muted characteristic, minimizing the noise commonly associated with mechanical keyboards.

In conclusion, while both switches offer unique qualities, the Flame Red switch focuses on a weighty smoothness, clacky sound profile, and a visually stunning light diffuser. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switch provides a sharp tactile bump, plush bottom-out sensation, and a whisper quiet sound profile. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can choose either switch to achieve their desired experience. If the user is looking for a similar muted sound profile to the U4 switch with a moderate actuation force requirement, the Flame Red switch can be a suitable alternative. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for feel, sound, and visual aesthetics.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a stunning visual experience and prefer a weighty smoothness with a clacky sound profile, the TTC Flame Red linear switch is the perfect choice for you. Its medium-light bottom out force of 54 grams provides a comfortable typing experience, and its dazzling light diffuser makes it ideal for backlit and RGB keyboards. On the other hand, if you value a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is the way to go. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, these switches offer a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the U4 switches have a whisper-quiet sound profile, thanks to their muted characteristic, and the low-pitched sound adds to the overall calming effect. Ultimately, whether you prefer a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel or a muted sound profile with a sharp tactile feedback, both the TTC Flame Red and Gazzew U4 switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Flame Red Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more