KTT Kang White vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Kang White and the Gazzew U4 are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer different typing experiences. The Kang White is a linear switch that is best known for its exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch and dazzling typing sound. Its self-lubricating material provides an unparalleled smoothness when typing. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 is a tactile switch that offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump when typing. It also provides an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. Additionally, the U4s have a whisper quiet sound profile, adding style and subtlety to the typing experience. These switches offer unique features and benefits, 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
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The KTT Kang White's housing materials, polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, offer a contrasting experience compared to the Gazzew U4's proprietary Gazzew blend for both the top and bottom housings. The polycarbonate top housing of the Kang White creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This leads to a more resonant and clear sound when typing on the switch. In contrast, the Gazzew U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While both offer unique sound profiles, the Kang White's polycarbonate top housing provides a higher-pitched and more precise sound, while the Gazzew U4's Gazzew blend top housing offers a deeper and more resonant sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Kang White's nylon material elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, like its top housing, delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Both bottom housings provide a similar result with their soft plastic compositions, offering a deeper sound when typing on the switch.
When comparing the overall experience of the two switches, it is important to consider the impact of the different housing materials on both the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key. With the KTT Kang White, the bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel may be more pronounced due to its nylon composition, while the top housing, made of polycarbonate, may have a greater influence on the sound when letting go of a key. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4's proprietary Gazzew blend for both top and bottom housings ensures a consistent sound profile throughout the typing experience, providing a rich and deep sound both when pressing down and releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there are a few notable differences. The Kang White has an actuation force of 45 grams, slightly heavier than the U4's 43 grams. However, the U4 has a slightly higher bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the Kang White's 58 grams. Both switches fall under the medium category in terms of force.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as it can greatly impact typing or gaming experiences. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Kang White, as its lower actuation force allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This lighter weight is also suitable for individuals who bring their keyboard to work or engage in prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience, with a stronger push feel, may lean towards the Gazzew U4. Its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force provide a more satisfying tactile feedback.
While the actuation and bottom out forces of the two switches differ slightly, resulting in a nuanced typing experience, both switches offer a medium level of force. This means that individuals who prefer either switch would achieve similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference and desired typing sensation.
Travel distance
The KTT Kang White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Kang White has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the U4. 4.0 mm is considered to be the more traditional travel distance, while 3.6 mm is on the shallower end. However, it's important to note that shorter travel distances have become more popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the U4 with its shorter travel distance would be a better choice for you. On the other hand, some people find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key. If this is your preference, the Kang White with its longer travel distance would be more suitable. Overall, the decision between the two switches would depend on individual preferences and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99, whereas the Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50.
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
The Kang White linear switch is best known for its dazzling typing sound, which is described as low-pitched. Low-pitched switches typically have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. In addition, the self-lubricating material of the Kang White switches provides an unparalleled smoothness when typing on them. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is known for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump. This sharpness gives a high feedback intensity, allowing users to distinctly feel the tactile bump with each keypress. The U4 switches also offer a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, providing a unique typing experience. When it comes to the noise level, the U4 switches have a whisper-quiet sound profile. Being a muted switch, it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. The Kang White switches, while not explicitly mentioned, are described as having a neutral sound profile. Both switches have a low-pitched sound tone, but the U4 switches are quieter due to their muted characteristic. However, it should be noted that the sound of a switch also depends on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used. In terms of feel, the Kang White switches do not have any specific descriptor provided. Conversely, the U4 switches are described as sharp tactile switches with a strong and crisp tactile bump.
In conclusion, the Kang White linear switch and Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Kang White switch provides a dazzling typing sound with a low-pitched tone, while the U4 switch offers a muted, whisper-quiet sound profile with a similar low-pitched tone. The Kang White switch is known for its smoothness, thanks to its self-lubricating material. On the other hand, the U4 switch provides a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, accompanied by a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Depending on the user's preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, and you value a dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, then the KTT Kang White linear switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a silent tactile switch with a slightly higher bottom out force, and you appreciate a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump as well as a soft and quiet sound profile, then the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is the perfect choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so consider what you prioritize and choose accordingly. In the end, it's all about finding the switch that best suits your typing style and brings you the most joy while using your mechanical keyboard.
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