TTC Gold Brown vs. Gazzew U4T

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Brown and the Gazzew U4T. The Gold Brown is best known for its balanced performance, offering a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. With a softer sound profile, these switches provide a pleasant typing experience without being completely silent. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T stands out for its harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. With a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback, every keystroke on these switches provides both auditory and tactile satisfaction. Both switches offer unique qualities, however, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best switch choice for your needs.

By the numbers

TTC Gold Brown Tactile

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Gazzew U4T differ significantly in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Gold Brown incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound. This is because polycarbonate is a rigid plastic that produces clear and resonant sound vibrations. In contrast, the U4T 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 distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the Gold Brown produces a brighter and more transparent tone, while the Gazzew blend top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound.

In terms of the bottom housing, the Gold Brown employs a nylon material known for its ability to elicit a deep and full sound. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Similarly, the U4T incorporates a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, which also offers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. Both nylon and the Gazzew blend provide a fuller tone, but nylon may offer a slightly deeper sound due to its absorption properties.

While the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Gazzew U4T may differ, their overall sound profiles are influenced by both the top and bottom housing materials. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the specific qualities may vary, both switches are capable of delivering satisfying sound profiles unique to their respective housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there are several points of similarity and difference. The actuation force of the Gold Brown is 55 grams, while the actuation force of the U4T is unknown. Both switches have a medium level of actuation force, providing a balance between ease of typing and a satisfying push feel. In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Brown requires 63 grams of force, while the U4T requires 62 grams. This makes the U4T slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force.

Considering the weight aspect, some keyboard users prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for extended periods without fatigue, which is especially useful for work purposes or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are individuals who prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For those users, choosing options with heavier forces would be more suitable.

Although there is a slight difference in bottom out force between the Gold Brown and U4T switches, they both fall within the medium range. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of the typing experience provided by these switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences regarding actuation force and the desire for a slightly lighter or heavier bottom out force.

Travel distance

Both the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and feedback between these two switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound qualities of the TTC Gold Brown and Gazzew U4T tactile switches, the Gold Browns are best described as having a rounded sound profile that is generally much softer than most switches without being completely silent. This makes them suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use them at home or work. On the other hand, the U4T switches offer a bassy 'thock' sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range that resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. They also provide an assertive tactile feedback, making every keystroke provide auditory and tactile satisfaction. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Gold Browns offer a mild typing experience with a gentle tactile bump. They fall into a safe, middle-ground zone and provide a buttery and polished keystroke sensation. This implies a smooth, effortless, and uniform typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The U4T switches, on the other hand, have a sharp tactile bump that is distinct and intense with every keypress.

In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown and Gazzew U4T tactile switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Browns provide a balanced sound profile with a moderate weightiness and satisfying bump, while the U4T switches offer a bassy 'thock' sound profile paired with an assertive tactile feedback. In terms of feel, the Gold Browns provide a mild, buttery, accented, and polished typing experience, while the U4T switches have a sharp and intense tactile bump. Depending on your preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a balanced switch with a moderate weight and softer sound profile, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch is a solid choice. It offers a satisfying bump and a rounded sound that is not too loud. This switch is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, and can be used in various settings such as home or work.

On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a deeper and richer sound profile, along with a strong and crisp tactile feedback, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is the way to go. Its bassy "thock" sound paired with its assertive tactile bump adds an extra level of satisfaction to each keystroke.

Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown and the Gazzew U4T will depend on your preferences. If you value a balanced and moderate typing experience, the Gold Brown is a great option. However, if you crave a deeper sound and a strong tactile feedback, the U4T will provide auditory and tactile satisfaction.

In the end, both switches have their strengths and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what kind of typing experience you are looking for. Whichever switch you choose, both the TTC Gold Brown and the Gazzew U4T offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Gold Brown Tactile

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more