TTC Flame Red vs. Gazzew U4Tx

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flame Red and the Gazzew U4Tx offer distinctive features and characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Flame Red switches are known for their stunning visual appeal, making them a perfect choice for those who have a backlit or RGB keyboard. In addition to their aesthetics, these switches provide a satisfying weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile when typing on them. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer a unique combination of refined sound and tactile feedback. With their deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and whisper-quiet topping out, each keypress delivers a sharp and satisfying tactile bump. While these general pointers can help guide your decision, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best determine the switch that suits your personal preferences.

By the numbers

TTC Flame Red Linear

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the TTC Flame Red and the Gazzew U4Tx switches have distinct housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Flame Red features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. While both materials offer a softness that contributes to a similar sound profile, the Flame Red's nylon housing may produce a slightly duller tone compared to the U4Tx's Gazzew blend.

Similarly, both switches incorporate nylon and Gazzew blend materials for their bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of the Flame Red contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when pressed. Its softness absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound profile. In contrast, the proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4Tx, often called "boba plastic," offers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Although both housing materials are softer plastics, the U4Tx's Gazzew blend may enhance the sound experience with its unique characteristics.

When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the switches, it is worth noting that the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. The material of the bottom housing affects the sound when the key is fully pressed down. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing the key. Therefore, the differences between the Flame Red's nylon and the U4Tx's Gazzew blend materials would primarily affect the sound experience upon releasing a key rather than when fully pressing it. Nonetheless, both switches offer a softer plastic material that contributes to a similar, deep, and rich sound profile.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, we can observe notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. On the other hand, the U4Tx's actuation force is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 65 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Flame Red switch would be a suitable choice. With its lower actuation and bottom out forces, it allows for extended periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for professional environments or lengthy gaming sessions. However, for users who enjoy a more forceful keystroke, the U4Tx offers a heavier push feel with its higher bottom out force. This can provide a more substantial and satisfying typing experience, catering to individuals who prefer a stronger tactile feedback.

Considering the weight of the switches is crucial since it directly impacts typing comfort and preferences. Opting for a lighter switch allows for enhanced endurance during prolonged usage, whereas choosing a heavier switch can provide a more pronounced and impactful typing feel. While the actuation force is known for the Flame Red but unknown for the U4Tx, it is important to note that both switches have different bottom out forces. Therefore, users can expect distinct outcomes depending on their individual preferences. Regardless, understanding the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches enables users to make informed decisions based on their desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch both have different travel distances from the top to the bottom. The Flame Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the U4Tx has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Flame Red's travel distance falls within the more traditional range of 4 mm, while the U4Tx offers a slightly shallower travel distance of 3.6 mm.

For those who prioritize faster response times and a more responsive feel, the U4Tx with its shorter travel distance would be the preferred option. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor switches with shorter travel distances for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, the Flame Red's longer travel distance may be more appealing to individuals who prefer a deeper keystroke and a greater sense of depth when typing. Some individuals may find that shorter travel distances feel too abrupt, so the longer travel distance of the Flame Red switch will provide a more satisfying typing experience.

In summary, while both switches offer distinct travel distances, choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference. If a shorter travel distance is desired for faster response times, the U4Tx is the better option. However, if a deeper keystroke and a greater sense of depth are preferred, the Flame Red switch with its slightly longer travel distance would be the more suitable choice. Either way, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different characteristics.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TTC Flame Red switch has a neutral profile. This means that it has a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switch offers a bassy sound profile. It produces a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the U4Tx has a muted sound, which means it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular or clacky switch. It minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as your choice of board and keycaps.

In terms of feel, the TTC Flame Red switch provides a mild typing experience. It offers a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of the Flame Red switches are approachable and fall in a safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Flame Red switch is described as polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gazze U4Tx switch is known for its sharp tactile bump. It provides a strong and crisp tactile feedback that can be distinctly felt with each and every keypress.

Considering all the available information, it's clear that both the TTC Flame Red and Gazzew U4Tx switches have their own unique qualities. The Flame Red offers a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile, with a mild and polished feel. On the other hand, the U4Tx switch provides a cleaner and refined sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a quiet topping out sound. It also offers a sharp and satisfying tactile bump. While the Flame Red has a neutral sound profile and a mild feel, the U4Tx offers a bassy sound profile and a sharp tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches provide a luxurious typing experience that can be tailored to individual preferences. If you're looking for a similar sound and feel, you can achieve comparable results by selecting switches with similar profiles such as neutral switches with a mild feel or switches with a bassy sound profile and sharp tactile feedback.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the decision between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch boils down to your personal preferences and needs.

If you prioritize visual aesthetics and a backlit, RGB keyboard, the Flame Red is the best choice for you. Its dazzling light diffuser enhances the overall visual experience while providing a weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile during typing. This switch is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you're using it at home or at work.

On the other hand, if you value a refined sound profile and a luxurious typing experience, the U4Tx is the way to go. It combines the deep, resonant "thock" of the U4T when bottoming out with the whisper-quiet stealth of the U4 when topping out. Each press delivers a sharp, satisfying tactile bump that enhances both the feel and acoustics of the keyboard.

In terms of sound, the Flame Red offers a neutral sound profile that works well for most purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, or using the keyboard at home or work. The U4Tx, on the other hand, provides a bassy and muted sound profile for a deeper and richer typing experience while minimizing typical mechanical keyboard noise.

When it comes to feel, the Flame Red offers a mild and polished experience with a safe middle-ground approach. The U4Tx, on the other hand, provides a sharp tactile feedback that is distinctly felt with each keypress.

Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on what you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard experience. Consider your preferences for aesthetics, sound, and feel to make the best decision for your needs.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Flame Red Linear

$7.29

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more