TTC Flaming Purple vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Flaming Purple and Gazzew U4Tx RGB offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The TTC Flaming Purple, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth, feathery feel and a slightly bass-heavy sound signature, making it an ideal choice for those who favor effortless, rapid typing with an engaging auditory experience. Its low actuation force of just 47g allows for swift keystrokes, appealing to both casual users and dedicated typists who appreciate a lightweight switch. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB presents a tactile experience with a deeper "thock" sound when bottoming out, combined with a sharp tactile bump that engages typists without being overly loud. This makes it particularly suited for users who enjoy a more deliberate feel while typing, favoring a refined sound profile that balances muted feedback with a bassy undertone. Both switches have their unique strengths, with the Flaming Purple excelling in ease of use and speed, while the U4Tx RGB offers tactile satisfaction and a luxurious typing 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
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
3.60 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 Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple switches and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches, some notable differences emerge that influence their sound profiles. The Flaming Purple features a polycarbonate top housing known for delivering a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances resonance and clarity, especially when combined with its translucency that allows RGB lighting to shine through effectively. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend referred to as "boba plastic." This softer material yields a richer and deeper sound profile, diverging from the sharper tones provided by polycarbonate. Consequently, for those prioritizing a more pronounced RGB visual experience but favoring a fuller, rounded acoustic output, the U4Tx RGB presents an attractive alternative.
Examining the bottom housings, both switches share a characteristic that contributes to their overall sound profiles, though they originate from different materials. The TTC Flaming Purple uses nylon, a time-tested choice in the keyboard community, which excels in creating a deeper, fuller sound due to its ability to absorb sound more effectively than stiffer plastics. Conversely, the U4Tx RGB also adopts a proprietary blend of "boba plastic" for its bottom housing, similarly noted for its softness. The two materials yield comparable results in terms of a deep sound profile; however, the differing compositions could impact durability and tactile feedback. Overall, both bottom housings enhance the roundness of the sounds produced, albeit through their distinct material characteristics.
Ultimately, the interplay between the top and bottom housing materials sharply defines the acoustics of each switch. With the Flaming Purple's polycarbonate top generating a crisper sound upon release and the nylon bottom adding depth on the bottom-out, users might experience a dynamic and balanced auditory signature. On the other hand, the U4Tx RGB, with its soft top and bottom housing made from "boba plastic," delivers a consistently rich sound profile throughout the entire keystroke. While both switches have different material compositions, they're designed to provide satisfying sound experiences tailored to different preferences. Users in search of brighter tones might lean towards the Flaming Purple, while those who appreciate a deeper resonance may prefer the U4Tx RGB, both of which ultimately offer unique yet compelling auditory experiences.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Flaming Purple switch features a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer less resistance during typing, which can enhance comfort during long work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB switch does not specify an actuation force but has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a more substantial push feel that some typists may favor for a more tactile experience. Therefore, the Flaming Purple is the lighter option, while the U4Tx RGB is considerably heavier. For those seeking the lightest typing experience, the Flaming Purple would be the preferable choice, and it provides a softer overall feel compared to the more forceful feedback of the U4Tx RGB.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means that when you press down on either switch, you will experience the same amount of distance before reaching the bottom. This similar travel distance ensures that users will get comparable tactile feedback and responsiveness across both switches. As a result, if you enjoy one switch for its feel and performance, you may find the other to provide a similar experience due to this identical travel distance.
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 U4Tx RGB 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Flaming Purple switch produces a unique auditory experience characterized by a resonant, bassy tone that leans towards the lower frequencies. This results in a slightly poppy undertone that adds an engaging flair to keystrokes, making it a lively choice for those who enjoy a bit of character with their typing sounds. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch offers a refined sound profile, delivering a deep "thock" upon bottoming out while maintaining a muted response during topping out. This contrast provides a quieter yet rich auditory experience, perfect for those who want a more subdued typing sound. Both switches share a bassy quality, appealing to users who appreciate a deeper sound, but they diverge in their overall auditory presence, with the Flaming Purple being more pronounced and lively, while the U4Tx RGB leans towards a muted and refined sound.
In the realm of feel, the TTC Flaming Purple switch stands out for its incredibly light actuation force of just 47g, coupled with a feathery and easy-to-press nature. This design allows for effortless typing and minimizes finger fatigue, making it an excellent choice for long typing sessions, whether it's for work or gaming. The silky smoothness of the switch further enhances the overall experience, providing a seamless transition from key press to release. The Gazzew U4Tx RGB, in contrast, does not specify much about its feel, which leaves some aspects of its tactile nature unknown. However, given its reputation for a sharp tactile bump, it is likely that the U4Tx RGB switch delivers a different tactile experience that some may find luxurious compared to the smooth nature of the Flaming Purple.
Combining these insights, it’s clear that while the TTC Flaming Purple and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, both can appeal to enthusiasts in their own right. The Flaming Purple boasts a lively, low-pitched sound and a remarkably light and smooth feel, making it ideal for those who favor a responsive and playful typing experience. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB offers a more muted, yet rich auditory experience with an undefined tactile feel that may provide a luxurious experience to users. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference, allowing newcomers to explore and discover their ideal typing experience based on their desired sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch will largely depend on your typing preferences and intended use. If you gravitate towards a lighter, effortless typing experience, the Flaming Purple is an excellent choice with its 47g bottom-out force that promotes swift typing and reduces finger fatigue, making it ideal for extended sessions, whether for gaming, coding, or general typing tasks. Its unique auditory signature with a bassy tone adds an engaging element to every keystroke, perfect if you enjoy a more resonant sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feel and don’t mind a bit of extra resistance, the U4Tx RGB with its 65g bottom-out force provides a satisfying tactile bump accompanied by a refined, muted sound. It’s designed for those who appreciate a luxurious typing experience and are looking for enhanced feedback without the loud clacking often associated with other tactile switches. Therefore, your choice should reflect your typing style: opt for the Flaming Purple for a lightweight, smooth, and lively typing experience, while the U4Tx RGB is suited for a more structured and tactile approach that still stays relatively quiet.