TTC Honey vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Honey and the Gazzew U4T. While both switches offer their own unique features and characteristics, they cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Honey switches are particularly praised for their smooth and creamy feel, providing a delightful typing experience. Additionally, they offer a deep and pleasant sound profile, contributing to an overall satisfying typing sound. On the other hand, the U4T switches stand out for their harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. With a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback, each keystroke is accompanied by an auditory and tactile satisfaction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Gazzew U4T differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. TTC Honey utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that enhances clarity and resonance in sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T features a proprietary Gazzew blend of plastic for both the top and bottom housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This unique blend of materials delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness.
While the TTC Honey and the Gazzew U4T have different housing materials, both switches aim to enhance the auditory experience. With the TTC Honey, the polycarbonate housing ensures a sharper and crisper sound when pressing down on a key due to its relatively stiff composition. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T's proprietary boba plastic blend provides a softer bottom housing, resulting in a more pronounced and deep sound upon bottoming out. Despite these differences, both switches prioritize providing a satisfying and immersive sound experience for users.
When it comes to the impact on sound upon key release, the top housing becomes a crucial factor. The TTC Honey's polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness, contributes to a distinct sound profile when a key is released. The clarity and resonance of the polycarbonate material amplify the sound when letting go of a key, further enhancing the auditory experience. Similarly, the Gazzew U4T's top housing, made of the proprietary Gazzew plastic blend, continues to deliver a rich sound profile upon key release. Although the specific sound characteristics may differ, both switches provide noticeable effects when releasing a key, making them suitable choices for those who value the sound profile throughout the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Honey linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Honey switch has an actuation force of 42 grams, making it relatively light, while the U4T switch's actuation force remains unknown. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Honey switch requires 50 grams of force, while the U4T switch has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams, placing it in the medium range. These variances in force exertion provide users with distinct typing experiences. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Honey switch ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Alternatively, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces, making the U4T switch a suitable choice. Although the exact actuation force for the U4T switch is unknown, its higher bottom out force ensures a more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Honey linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have different travel distances. The Honey has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the U4T has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the U4T being the slightly longer option. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Honey switch. Its 3.8 mm travel distance allows for quicker key presses and potentially improved gaming performance. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming may lean towards the Gazzew U4T switch with its 4 mm travel distance. This longer travel distance provides a deeper and more deliberate key press, which some find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 Honey linear switch offers a subdued and subtle sound profile. While it's not completely silent, it produces a dampened sound when pressed, creating a more understated auditory experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is characterized by a bassy and thocky sound profile. The lower frequency range of the U4T switch gives it a deep and rich quality, reminiscent of the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the thocky nature of the U4T switch produces a satisfying "thud" or "knock" sound when pressed and released. It's important to note that the sound of switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Now, let's talk about the feel of these switches. The TTC Honey linear switch is known for its creamy and frictionless typing experience. This smooth and buttery sensation is achieved through the application of lubricant at the factory or specific materials used in the switch. When typing on the Honey switch, you can expect a silky and effortless glide across the keys, as your fingers effortlessly melt into each keystroke. Additionally, the Honey switch is described as subtle and polished, offering a gentle resistance and reduced friction for a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch provides a sharp tactile feedback. These switches are designed to have a high intensity and distinct tactile bump with each keypress. The sharp tactility of the U4T switch ensures that you have a clear and noticeable tactile response every time you press a key.
In conclusion, the Honey and U4T switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Honey switch provides a smooth and creamy feel, paired with a subdued sound profile. On the other hand, the U4T switch offers thockiness and sharp tactility, producing a bassy sound profile and providing an assertive tactile feedback. Depending on your preferences, you can choose between a more subtle and polished typing experience with the Honey switch or a more intense and tactile experience with the U4T switch. It's worth mentioning that the final typing experience can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a light bottom out force and enjoy a smooth and creamy typing experience, the TTC Honey linear switches would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a light and effortless typing feel, allowing your fingers to glide across the keys with ease. Additionally, the Honey switches have a pleasant and subdued sound profile, making them suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and crave a tactile feedback that is both sharp and satisfying, the Gazzew U4T tactile switches would be the ideal option. These switches embody a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, providing a high feedback intensity with each keypress. The U4T switches also produce a bassy 'thock' sound profile, adding auditory satisfaction to your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the TTC Honey and Gazzew U4T switches depends on your preferred bottom out force, typing feel, and sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
