TTC Ice vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch highlights the distinction between two popular preferences among enthusiasts. The TTC Ice, with its crystal-clear transparent design, is celebrated for its smooth and responsive feel, offering an enjoyable typing experience that is ideal for both gaming and everyday tasks. This linear switch is characterized by its lack of tactile feedback and a consistent keystroke that allows for rapid key presses without interruption. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB distinguishes itself with an audible "thock" sound upon bottoming out, complemented by a smooth yet sharp tactile bump, creating a luxurious typing experience that many typists crave. This tactile switch is perfect for those who seek feedback with every keystroke, enhancing both typing accuracy and satisfaction. Each switch caters to different preferences and use cases: choose the TTC Ice for seamless, fluid operation or the U4Tx RGB for a more engaging tactile response. 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 RGB Tactile

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the TTC Ice and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches differ significantly, resulting in contrasting auditory experiences. The TTC Ice prominently features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This loading of polycarbonate allows for clear resonance that is particularly enhanced under RGB lighting conditions, making these switches ideal for setups where visual illumination is a priority. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB utilizes a proprietary plastic blend affectionately dubbed "boba plastic," characterized by its softness. This softer material imparts a rich and deep sound profile, creating a fuller auditory experience. Consequently, users can expect a markedly different sound character when comparing the two, with the Ice providing a more piercing sound and the U4Tx a more mellow tone.

When examining the bottom housings, the differences between the two switches become pronounced yet again. The TTC Ice continues with its polycarbonate construction, contributing to a high-pitched and crisp sensation when bottoming out, which aligns with the switch's overall sharper sonic signature. Meanwhile, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB incorporates its softer "boba plastic" for the bottom housing, leading to a more subdued bottom-out feel and sound. This disparity in material properties means that while the Ice emphasizes a clearer auditory experience, the U4Tx delivers a deeper and richer sound during key presses. Therefore, the tactile feedback and acoustics users experience will vary depending on the switch selected and their component materials.

In scenarios where both top and bottom housings are considered collectively, the distinct characteristics of each material interact to shape the overall performance of the switch. For example, in the TTC Ice, the crisper qualities of the polycarbonate top complement its bottom housing, creating a coherent sound profile that enhances the clarity of key releases. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB’s combination of a soft top and bottom housing produces a more integrated sound experience, emphasizing warmth and depth rather than sharpness. Users seeking to balance the qualities of each housing material should think carefully about their intended typing experience; while they can achieve different aesthetics and acoustics using either switch, the intentional combination of materials plays a crucial role in their distinct sound profiles.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, notable differences can be observed in their actuation and bottom out forces. The TTC Ice boasts an actuation force of 45 grams, which makes it relatively lighter, appealing to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience suited for extended use. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB's actuation force is unspecified, but it features a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a heavier feel by the time the switch is fully depressed. This suggests that while the Gazzew switch may provide a more substantial typing experience, users might need to adapt to the lack of clarity regarding its actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the TTC Ice has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is slightly lighter than the Gazzew's 65 grams. Consequently, for those seeking a lighter touch for typing or gaming, the TTC Ice would be the preferable choice, whereas individuals who favor a more robust feel might gravitate towards the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch, despite the uncertainty surrounding its actuation force.

Travel distance

Both the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch share the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressed, both switches will provide a similar feel in terms of the distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Since their travel distances are equal, users can expect a comparable experience in terms of key response and actuation depth. Therefore, if you're looking for switches that deliver uniform travel characteristics, both the Ice and U4Tx RGB would achieve similar results in this regard.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TTC Ice linear switch is characterized by its smooth and satisfying bottom-out sound, providing a premium auditory experience that enhances the typing atmosphere. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch delivers a distinct sound profile with the deep "thock" when bottoming out, contrasting with the quiet stealth of the topping out. This results in a refined auditory experience that can cater to users who appreciate a clearer differentiation in sound production when typing or gaming.

Regarding feel, the Ice switch is known for its smooth, responsive operation, which makes it ideal for both gaming and everyday tasks. Its linear nature means there is no tactile bump, allowing for uninterrupted keystrokes. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB provides a sharp tactile bump, offering a luxurious typing sensation that many users find engaging. This tactile feedback is ideal for typists who appreciate the sensation of a key actuation, as it allows for more precise typing.

In conclusion, while both switches provide enjoyable experiences, they cater to different preferences. The TTC Ice offers a smooth, linear feel with a pleasing sound, making it a versatile choice for a range of activities. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB stands out with its tactile bump and refined auditory profile, appealing to those who appreciate feedback and depth in sound. Choosing between these two comes down to personal preference, but rest assured, both options promise a satisfying experience in their own right.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a smooth, linear experience with a moderate bottom-out force of 60 grams, the TTC Ice switch is an excellent choice. Its transparent design not only looks stunning but also provides a responsive feel suitable for both gaming and everyday tasks, making it ideal if you enjoy quick key presses without the distraction of tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced typing experience with a tactile bump and a richer sound, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB would better suit your needs. With a slightly heavier actuation force of 65 grams, it delivers a deep "thock" sound upon bottoming out while maintaining a quieter top-out. This makes it an appealing option for those who appreciate the luxurious feel of tactile feedback in their typing or gaming setup. Ultimately, your choice should reflect how you like to interact with your keyboard—smooth and sleek with the TTC Ice or tactile and pronounced with the U4Tx RGB.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Ice Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more