TTC Gold Silver vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. The TTC Gold Silver is perfect for those seeking a swift and precise typing experience, with its shortened travel and solid bottom-out providing a satisfying closure with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer a unique blend of a refined sound profile and sharp tactile bump, creating a luxurious typing experience that is both acoustically pleasing and tactile. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on the switch. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, sometimes referred to as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While the Gold Silver's polycarbonate top housing is translucent and ideal for RGB lighting effects, the U4Tx's Gazzew blend top housing provides a unique sound experience with its softer material.
When it comes to the bottom housing of the switches, the differences continue. The Gold Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer material that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. On the other hand, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, like the top housing, delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is more pronounced with the U4Tx switch, providing a unique typing experience.
Overall, while the TTC Gold Silver and Gazzew U4Tx both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, they differ in the specific qualities they bring to the typing experience. The Gold Silver's polycarbonate top housing provides a clear and resonant sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing enhances the deeper and fuller sound when typing. In contrast, the U4Tx's Gazzew blend top and bottom housing materials deliver a rich and deep sound profile thanks to their softness. While there are similarities in the rich sound profiles they offer, the specific characteristics of each housing material contribute to distinct typing experiences for both switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is evident that the Gold Silver is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams, whereas the U4Tx's actuation force is unknown. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the U4Tx is the heavier option at 62.5 grams compared to the Gold Silver's unknown bottom out force. This means that the Gold Silver switch would provide a lighter typing experience overall, while the U4Tx switch would offer a more substantial and tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are popular among gamers for faster response times. However, the U4Tx is slightly longer than the Gold Silver, which may provide a slightly more profound key press feel for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, and users can expect a similar level of performance from both options.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver 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 Silver for $2.90.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, emphasizing a deep and rich tone with a moderate actuation force requirement, resulting in a satisfying and versatile auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch provides a bassy and muted sound, delivering a deeper and quieter sound profile that minimizes noise, ideal for a more subtle and refined typing environment. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can be further influenced by factors such as keyboard build and keycap selection.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch is known for its polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience, offering a smooth and refined keypress with a gentle resistance that suits a wide range of users. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch stands out for its sharp tactile bump, providing a strong and crisp feedback intensity with each press for a more pronounced tactile typing feel. While the Gold Silver focuses on a balanced and approachable typing experience, the U4Tx leans towards a more tactile and feedback-driven sensation, catering to users who prefer a more distinct tactile response in their keystrokes.
Overall, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch excels in rapid responsiveness with a harmonious sound signature and smooth key travel, creating a seamless blend of speed, sound, and fluidity in each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a luxurious typing experience with a clean and refined sound profile, accentuated by a sharp tactile bump for a satisfying and acoustically pleasing feel. Whether you prioritize speed and precision or tactile feedback and refined sound, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, you should consider your preferences in typing experience. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, smooth key presses, and a resonant sound profile, the Gold Silver may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a refined sound profile, a luxurious typing experience with a sharp tactile bump, and a combination of deep thocky bottoming out and quiet topping out, then the U4Tx is likely the switch for you. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to whether you value speed and fluidity or tactile feedback and acoustics in your mechanical keyboard.
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