TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it's evident that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red Pro stands out for its versatility, providing a smooth and seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature suitable for any environment. On the other hand, the U4T is praised for its combination of thockiness and sharp tactility, creating a satisfying auditory and tactile feedback with every keystroke. While the Gold Red Pro may be ideal for those looking for a polished and mild typing experience, the U4T appeals to individuals seeking a more pronounced tactile response and bassy sound profile. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gazzew U4T both offer unique qualities that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Gold Red Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound profile, while the U4T boasts a Gazzew blend top housing that delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. In terms of aesthetics, the Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting, while the U4T's proprietary blend top housing offers a unique sound experience with its boba plastic material.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gold Red Pro utilizes a nylon material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Similarly, the Gazzew U4T's proprietary blend bottom housing also boasts a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its soft material. This suggests that both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their respective housing materials, focusing on the resonance and depth of the sound produced.
While the top and bottom housing materials differ between the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gazzew U4T, the qualities each material brings contribute to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. Both switches aim to offer users a unique and enjoyable typing experience by utilizing specific housing materials that enhance the sound profile and tactile feedback of the switches. Ultimately, whether you choose the Gold Red Pro or the Gazzew U4T, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound characteristics.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is evident that they have differing actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Red Pro requires an actuation force of 43 grams, while the U4T does not provide a specific value for actuation force. However, the U4T has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. This indicates that the Gold Red Pro may be lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the U4T. Weight is a crucial factor to consider as it directly impacts typing experience and preference. Some users may prefer a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may opt for a heavier force for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual typing style and preference for actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences and typing needs.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is slightly shorter than the Gazzew U4T tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Gold Red Pro has a slightly shallower key press compared to the U4T. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Gold Red Pro for faster response times, while others may prefer the more substantial key press of the U4T. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a neutral and low-pitched profile, giving a satisfying and mellow typing experience suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch provides a bassy and thocky sound, adding a rich depth to each key press for those seeking a more pronounced auditory feedback. Depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard, users can choose between a more subtle and polished sound with the Gold Red Pro or a sharper and more intense sound with the U4T.
In terms of feel, the Gold Red Pro switch is polished, silky, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance, making it approachable and suitable for shared spaces. In comparison, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch delivers a sharp tactile feedback with a strong and crisp bump, providing a distinct and intense typing sensation for users who prefer a more pronounced tactile response. Whether you prefer a gentle and subtle typing feel with the Gold Red Pro or a sharp and intense tactile feedback with the U4T, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Overall, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches excel in providing a versatile and satisfying typing experience for users with varying preferences. Whether you prioritize a neutral and low-pitched sound with a polished and subtle feel or a bassy and thocky sound with a sharp and intense tactile feedback, both switches offer quality options for different typing needs. Ultimately, choosing between the Gold Red Pro and the U4T will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you value a smooth and versatile typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro would be a great fit for you. It excels in various settings and caters to a wide range of users. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile typing feel with a bassy thocky sound profile, the U4T is the way to go. Its sharp tactile feedback and rich sound signature provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize smoothness and versatility or tactile feedback and sound profile in your mechanical keyboard setup.
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