TTC Flaming Purple vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, we see two distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Flaming Purple offers a smooth and easy-to-press experience with its low-pitched and resonant sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prioritize a feather-light typing feel and a touch of bassy undertones with each keystroke. On the other hand, the U4T provides a satisfyingly sharp tactile feedback paired with a thocky bass sound, appealing to those who enjoy a balance between tactile response and auditory satisfaction. 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
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gazzew U4T have distinct differences that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Flaming Purple features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the U4T utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing for a rich and deep sound profile. Both materials offer unique benefits, with polycarbonate providing a clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness, and the Gazzew blend delivering a softer and more absorbing sound quality.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Flaming Purple utilizes a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softness and sound absorption capabilities. Similarly, the U4T incorporates its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing to achieve a rich and deep sound profile that complements the top housing material. While both switches use different materials for their bottom housings, they both aim to enhance the overall typing experience by providing a more rounded and dull sound that is preferred by many enthusiasts.
Overall, the combination of housing materials in a switch plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of the typing experience. The Flaming Purple and the Gazzew U4T showcase how different materials can impact the overall sound profile, with polycarbonate and nylon offering unique benefits for the Flaming Purple, and the proprietary Gazzew blend providing a distinct sound quality for the U4T. Regardless of the differences in materials used, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience by balancing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the sound and feel of the keystrokes.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is clear that the Flaming Purple is the lighter of the two. The Flaming Purple requires an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, indicating a relatively light typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. The actuation force of the U4T is not provided, but it can be assumed to be higher than that of the Flaming Purple due to the higher bottom out force. When considering weight, it is important to note that lighter switches are preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while heavier switches are favored by those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is evident that the Flaming Purple has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm while the U4T has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Flaming Purple's shorter distance may appeal to those seeking faster response times, such as gamers, while the U4T's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style. Regardless of the difference in travel distance, both switches are designed to provide a reliable and comfortable typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
The Gazzew U4T 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 TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is characterized by a bassy and low-pitched profile with a resonant quality, providing a deep and engaging auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch also offers a bassy sound profile but with a thocky characteristic, delivering a rich and satisfying sound with each keypress. Both switches offer unique auditory qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Flaming Purple leaning towards a smoother bass tone and the U4T emphasizing a sharper tactile feedback.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Flaming Purple switch is described as feathery, easy-to-press, and silky, offering an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback, providing a distinct and intense tactile bump with every keystroke. While the Flaming Purple focuses on a smooth and light typing feel, the U4T prioritizes a pronounced tactile response for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience.
Overall, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch each offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Flaming Purple excels in providing a resonant and feathery typing experience with a bassier sound profile, while the U4T stands out for its thocky sound and sharp tactile feedback. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches offer distinct personalities that can cater to a variety of keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, choosing between the two would come down to personal preference in terms of sound and tactile feedback desired during typing sessions.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you value a light and effortless typing experience with a touch of auditory flair, the Flaming Purple with its 47g bottom-out force and bassier sound profile may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a strong and crisp tactile feedback with a medium-heavy 65g bottom-out force, the U4Ts with their thocky sound profile could be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your personal typing style and what characteristics you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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