TTC Ice vs. Gazzew U4Tx

Overview

When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, it's essential to consider the unique qualities that each type brings to your typing experience. The TTC Ice switches shine with their stunning crystal-clear transparent design, offering a smooth, linear feel alongside a gratifying bottom-out sound—making them an ideal choice for those who appreciate fluid keystrokes during both gaming and everyday tasks. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx switches deliver a delightful tactile sensation; they strike a balance between a deep, resonant "thock" sound when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet stealth on the way back up, providing the user with an exquisite auditory experience. Additionally, the sharp tactile bump enhances feedback during typing, appealing to users who thrive on that satisfying response from their keystrokes. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Ice for those who favor a seamless linear action and the U4Tx for those who revel in tactile sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Ice Linear

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Ice and Gazzew U4Tx switches, a distinct contrast emerges in their composition and resultant sound profiles. The TTC Ice utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which is known for producing a sharper and crisper sound. This characteristic is largely due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, allowing for a clear and resonant audio experience during both the actuation and release of a keypress. Furthermore, the polycarbonate's translucency makes it an excellent choice for RGB lighting, enhancing the visual aesthetic of the keyboard while maintaining audio clarity.

In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx features a proprietary blend of plastics referred to as "boba plastic," which serves both its top and bottom housings. This material contrasts materially with polycarbonate by virtue of its softness, resulting in a deeper, richer sound profile. The softer housing tends to absorb some of the high frequencies and offers a more mellow auditory experience, which can influence the overall feel of typing. As a result, the U4Tx can evoke a different tactile sensation when bottoming out or releasing a key, attributing to its unique sound dynamics compared to the sharper tones of the Ice.

Despite the different materials, both switches can deliver quality performance, though through varied auditory experiences. The blend of polycarbonate in the TTC Ice provides a clearer sound, with the high-pitched resonances noted in the typing experience. In comparison, the U4Tx’s boba plastic yields a more subdued and rich sound. Nonetheless, if one were to mix and match aspects from both switches, achieving a hybrid sound experience might be possible, synthesizing the sharpness of the Ice with the richness of the U4Tx by selectively combining the housing components. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference—whether one favors the crispness of polycarbonate or the deep tones of the proprietary plastic blend.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there's a notable distinction in their actuation forces. The Ice switch features an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a relatively balanced typing experience, while the U4Tx's actuation force remains unspecified. This absence makes it difficult to correlate the immediate triggering behavior of the U4Tx switch with the Ice switch. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Ice switch has a force of 60 grams compared to the U4Tx's slightly higher 62.5 grams. This means that while both switches provide a medium bottom out experience, the U4Tx's higher bottom out force may yield a more substantial feedback upon keystroke completion. In terms of weight preference, the TTC Ice is the lighter option, which can be advantageous for users who type for extended periods, whereas the U4Tx, being slightly heavier at bottom out, may appeal to those who prefer a firmer feel during typing.

Travel distance

The travel distance of both the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is the same, measuring 3.6 mm each. This identical travel distance means that users pressing down on keys equipped with either switch will experience a similar tactile response, contributing to a consistent feel during typing. Since both switches have the same travel distance, users can expect comparable performance and feedback, allowing for a unified experience whether using one switch or the other.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TTC Ice linear switch offers a satisfying bottom-out sound, contributing to a premium typing experience that is enjoyable for both gaming and everyday use. However, the specifics of its sound profile beyond this characterization are not thoroughly detailed. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch combines elements of deeper, bassy sounds with a muted quality. The U4Tx produces a resonant "thock" when bottoming out, lending a rich, deeper tone to key presses, while maintaining a quieter sound when topping out, creating a balanced auditory experience. This versatility makes the U4Tx particularly appealing to those who appreciate a more refined sound signature.

In terms of feel, the TTC Ice is noted for its smooth and responsive action, ideal for both gaming and typing. However, the specific feedback characteristics are not elaborated upon. The Gazzew U4Tx, by contrast, is renowned for its sharp tactile bump, providing strong feedback with each key press. This tactile distinction ensures that typists can anticipate the activation point with clarity, enhancing the overall typing experience and making it more engaging. While the Ice is focused on a smooth linear feel, the U4Tx accentuates tactile feedback, which can influence typing style and precision.

Overall, both the TTC Ice and Gazzew U4Tx switches offer distinct qualities that cater to diverse preferences. The Ice provides a smooth and responsive linear experience with a pleasant sound, making it suitable for those who prefer a seamless keypress with minimal tactile feedback. Meanwhile, the U4Tx excels in its tactile responsiveness and refined sound profile, appealing to users who appreciate a pronounced tactile sensation and a richer audio experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel; ensuring an enjoyable typing experience can be achieved through either switch, but tailored to the specific characteristics that resonate most with you.

Conclusion

To sum up, your choice between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch ultimately hinges on your specific preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you prioritize a smooth and responsive linear experience for both gaming and everyday typing, the Ice switch could be the ideal option for you. Its transparent design not only looks great but also provides a pleasant bottom-out sound, ensuring that your typing experience remains enjoyable without the distraction of excessive noise. Conversely, if you seek a more tactile and acoustically rich experience, the U4Tx switch might better suit your needs. Its sharp tactile bump offers exceptional feedback with each keystroke, coupled with a unique sound profile that combines a deep "thock" with muted acoustic properties. This combination makes the U4Tx particularly satisfying for those who enjoy the tactile elements of typing while preferring a quieter workspace. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you value a smooth linear feel with appealing sounds or a more tactile experience with luxurious acoustics.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Ice Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more