TTC Ice vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can greatly influence your typing experience. Two popular options are the TTC Ice switches, known for their smooth linear action and transparent design, and the Gazzew U4T switches, which offer a distinct tactile feedback along with a satisfying 'thock' sound profile. The Ice switches provide a seamless, responsive feeling ideal for both gamers and typists who prefer a quieter, uninterrupted typing experience. In contrast, the U4T switches take pride in their tactile nature, delivering an assertive feedback and rich sound that many users find pleasurable and satisfying with every keystroke. While the TTC Ice caters to those seeking a sleek and fluid typing experience, the Gazzew U4T appeals to individuals who enjoy an engaging and immersive auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the TTC Ice and Gazzew U4T switches, a striking difference lies in the materials used for their top housings. The Ice switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This stiffer plastic allows vibrations to travel more freely, thus enhancing the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when a key is pressed. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T utilizes a proprietary blend of plastics often referred to as "boba plastic," which is softer and leads to a richer, deeper sound profile. While this difference in housing materials results in distinct auditory experiences, the Ice’s polycarbonate can achieve more pronounced articulation, particularly in setups incorporating RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency.
The bottom housings of the switches also display a similar divergence in material characteristics. The TTC Ice employs polycarbonate for the bottom housing as well, reinforcing the crisp sound profile and adding to its overall sonic clarity. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T features its proprietary blend, known for a smooth and muted sound quality. This softness in Gazzew's bottom housing contributes to a gentler bottom-out feel, making it noticeably different compared to the sharper tactile feedback provided by the Ice switches. These variations in bottom housing materials will profoundly affect the overall feel during key presses, with the U4T offering a softer landing compared to the more pronounced snap of the Ice.
However, despite the differing materials and resulting sound profiles, users can achieve contrasting yet satisfying results based on their preferences. The unique qualities of each switch, shaped by both top and bottom housing materials, allow for a layered audio experience. In practical use, a user may favor the crisper sound of the Ice, particularly in gaming scenarios where precision is key, while another may appreciate the deep, rounded acoustics of the Gazzew U4T for a more enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the differences in material properties play a crucial role in how each switch performs, leading to distinct preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The TTC Ice has an actuation force of 45 grams, which provides a balanced typing experience, while its bottom out force of 60 grams signifies a medium resistance when fully depressed. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T does not specify an actuation force, but it does feature a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. This indicates that the U4T requires more force to reach the bottom compared to the Ice, offering a more substantial feel when typing. As a result, the Ice is the lighter option between the two, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the U4T is heavier, appealing to users who prefer a firmer push feel for a more tactile response. Thus, while both switches cater to different preferences, the varying forces provide distinct typing experiences tailored to user needs.
Travel distance
The TTC Ice linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch exhibit differing travel distances, with the Ice measuring 3.6 mm and the U4T at 4.0 mm. This means the U4T has a longer travel distance by 0.4 mm, providing a more traditional feel which some users might prefer for its depth and feedback. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Ice switch may appeal to gamers or those seeking quicker response times, as the reduced distance can allow for faster actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation feel and responsiveness; if you lean towards a snappier experience, the Ice would be the better option, while the U4T would suit those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice for $5.99.
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 Ice linear switch presents a smooth and responsive auditory profile characterized by a satisfying bottom-out sound. This creates a pleasant, if somewhat subdued, acoustic experience, making it suitable for environments where quiet operation is appreciated, such as in office settings. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offers a significantly richer sound quality, featuring a bassy and thocky profile. The U4T produces a deeper auditory experience reminiscent of a low-frequency "thud" with each keystroke, delivering a more pronounced feedback that can be quite engaging during typing sessions.
Regarding feel, the TTC Ice switch provides an incredibly smooth and responsive typing experience, ideal for users who appreciate effortless key presses. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T boasts a sharp tactile feedback that is unmistakable with every keypress. This switch is built to emphasize a strong tactile bump, providing a crisp and noticeable sensation that many enthusiasts find satisfying, especially when typing or gaming. The U4T's tactile feedback might be more pronounced and intense compared to the smooth nature of the Ice.
In summary, if you prefer a linear switch that prioritizes a quiet and smooth feel, the TTC Ice may be the right choice for you, while the Gazzew U4T is ideal if you're seeking a tactile experience with a rich sound profile. Each switch caters to different preferences; therefore, depending on your desired auditory and tactile feedback characteristics, you might find one more appealing than the other. Ultimately, both can deliver satisfying results but cater to different typing experiences, so your choice will depend on whether you prioritize smoothness or tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you favor a smooth and responsive typing experience that excels in both gaming and day-to-day tasks, the Ice switch is an excellent option. It provides a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, making it comfortable for extended use without causing fatigue. Additionally, its crystal-clear design and satisfying sound profile enhance the overall aesthetic and auditory pleasure of typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile experience with deep, thocky sounds that evoke a satisfying richness in every keypress, the U4T is the way to go. With a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 65 grams, it offers that assertive tactile feedback you may desire, enriching your typing with both sharpness and auditory satisfaction. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prioritize a smooth linear response or a more pronounced tactile feedback in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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