TTC Flaming Pink vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Pink and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact your typing experience. On one hand, the TTC Flaming Pink switches are renowned for their smooth, linear feel and subtle, yet satisfying bottom-out sound, making them an excellent option for both gaming and day-to-day tasks that require quick response times and fluid keystrokes. Their bright sound profile strikes a balance that's neither too intrusive nor too quiet, allowing for an enjoyable typing environment. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer a distinct tactile experience, marrying a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out with a whisper-quiet top-out, resulting in a refined acoustic signature that is both luxurious and enjoyable. The sharp tactile bump ensures that each keystroke is pleasing and precise, making it a favorite for those who appreciate tactile feedback. With these two options, it's clear that while the TTC Flaming Pink excels in smoothness and versatility, the Gazzew U4Tx caters to users looking for a tactile and acoustically rich experience. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
24mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Pink and the Gazzew U4Tx switches, a distinct contrast arises between their top housings. The Flaming Pink utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is primarily due to polycarbonate's stiffer nature, allowing for greater resonance and clarity. The clear housing also enhances aesthetics, particularly in setups featuring RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows light to diffuse beautifully. In contrast, the U4Tx employs a proprietary blend often referred to as “boba plastic,” which is softer than polycarbonate. This variation results in a richer and deeper sound profile, providing a different auditory experience. While both switches may excel in their own right, the Flaming Pink's sound is likely to feel more pronounced and bright, while the U4Tx lends itself to a warmer, more enveloping sound.
Examining the bottom housings further highlights the similarities in construction and their resultant sonic qualities. The Flaming Pink has a nylon bottom housing, a material renowned for its ability to deliver a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. This characteristic allows the nylon to absorb more sound, creating a rounder sound profile that many typists appreciate. On the other hand, the U4Tx's proprietary boba plastic, used for its bottom housing, produces a similar deep sound profile thanks to its softness. Both materials serve a similar purpose: enhancing the overall auditory experience by dampening sound vibrations and contributing to a mellow typing experience.
In essence, although the top housings of the TTC Flaming Pink and Gazzew U4Tx switches differ markedly—polycarbonate versus boba plastic—the bottom housings reveal a closer relationship in terms of material properties. Each switch’s typing feel and sound characteristics are further influenced by the interplay of the respective top and bottom housing materials. For those who enjoy the full auditory experience of gaming or typing, both switches can achieve satisfying results; the Flaming Pink offers a bright and clear output, while the U4Tx provides richness and depth. Thus, while each switch has unique qualities based on its materials, users can expect a satisfying typing experience from both, albeit with different sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, significant differences can be observed in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Flaming Pink switch features a light actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an ideal choice for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, suitable for long work hours or gaming sessions. In contrast, the U4Tx has an unspecified actuation force but boasts a heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams, indicating a more substantial feel when fully pressed down. This heavier force caters to users who enjoy a firmer typing experience. Thus, while the Flaming Pink is lighter and easier to actuate, the U4Tx provides a more pronounced tactile feedback at the bottom out, appealing to those who seek a stronger push feel. Overall, the Flaming Pink may be preferable for extended use, while the U4Tx could be favored by those who like a more robust keypress.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that users will experience a consistent key press depth when using either switch. This similarity in travel distance suggests that users could expect similar tactile feedback and responsiveness from both switches, providing a comparable typing experience. Therefore, for those looking for either switch, the travel distance will not be a distinguishing factor, as both will deliver the same level of key actuation travel when pressed down.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
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
The sound profile of the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch is nicely crafted, providing a bright yet not overly loud sound that balances the auditory needs of both gamers and typists alike. You'll experience a satisfying bottom-out sound, which adds to the overall enjoyment of key presses without being overwhelming. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a more complex acoustic experience. With its deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and the whisper-quiet stealth of its topping out, the U4Tx creates a refined sound profile. The bassy quality lends richness to each keystroke, while its muted nature keeps noise levels in check, making it conducive for quieter environments. Both switches emphasize different auditory characteristics, with the Flaming Pink leaning toward a balanced tone and the U4Tx showcasing a more dynamic range.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch excels in providing a smooth and responsive typing experience. Although specific tactile cues are less pronounced due to its linear nature, users can expect a consistent and fluid keystroke that is equally suitable for gaming and typing tasks. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is designed to provide a sharp tactile bump, delivering high feedback intensity that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. This tactile sensation enhances the typing experience and offers a luxurious feedback quality that typists will likely enjoy. Here, the Flaming Pink offers a smooth action, while the U4Tx presents a pronounced tactile engagement.
In summary, both the TTC Flaming Pink and the Gazzew U4Tx switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Flaming Pink provides a smooth linear experience with a balanced sound profile that works well for both gaming and general use. Meanwhile, the U4Tx tantalizes with its rich sounds and pronounced tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who favor tactile engagement and a deeper auditory experience. Ultimately, both switches can deliver enjoyable typing experiences, but your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize smoothness and comfort or tactile feedback and depth in sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and the primary use case for your keyboard. If you favor a lightweight feel with a smooth, responsive action that excels in both gaming and typing scenarios, the Flaming Pink might be the right choice for you. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it suitable for fast-paced gaming sessions where rapid key presses are essential, while its pleasant sound profile strikes a balance between clarity and comfort, making it great for casual typing as well. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile response and appreciate a deeper acoustic profile, the Gazzew U4Tx switches would be better suited for your needs. With a bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, these switches provide a satisfying tactile bump with each keystroke, making them excellent for typists who enjoy feeling the feedback of their presses. The U4Tx's combination of a refined, bassy sound with muted characteristics enhances your experience, making every type feel luxurious and immersive. Ultimately, consider whether you lean towards a lighter, smoother typing experience or a more tactile and acoustically rich one to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.