TKC Kiwi vs. Gazzew LT
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Gazzew LT switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TKC Kiwi and the Gazzew LT. The TKC Kiwi is a tactile switch that aims to enhance your typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. It offers a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, creating an immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT is a linear switch that boasts an enticing lilac hue and delivers an auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness. These switches provide a seamless glide with every keystroke. So why would you choose one switch over the other? The Kiwi's tactile bump and immersive sound make it a great choice for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the LT's smooth glide and resonant thockiness appeal to those who prioritize smoothness and auditory feedback. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the Gazzew LT, one key difference is in their sound signatures. The Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing offers a bright sound signature, resulting in resonant clacks when typing. On the other hand, the LT's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. This means that while the Kiwi produces brighter and more resonant sounds, the LT offers a deeper and richer typing experience.
Another difference lies in the material used for the bottom housings of the two switches. The Kiwi features a UHWMPE bottom housing, which contributes to its bright sound signature and resonant clacks. In contrast, the Gazzew LT utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also referred to as "boba plastic." This bottom housing material's softness results in a more impact-heavy bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the choice of bottom housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience, with the Kiwi offering a brighter and more resonant feel while the LT offers a softer and more impact-focused experience.
Despite these differences, there are similarities between the two switches. Both the Kiwi and the LT utilize newer materials for their top housings, aiming to enhance the sound signature. While the Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing delivers a bright sound, the LT's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing produces a deep and rich sound. Therefore, regardless of the differences in the specific sound signatures, both switches prioritize optimizing the sound when keys are released. Additionally, both switches employ proprietary plastic blends for their bottom housings, with the Kiwi utilizing UHWMPE and the LT utilizing the Gazzew blend. This demonstrates that both switches prioritize innovative materials to provide a unique typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. Starting with the actuation force, the Kiwi requires 43 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. Unfortunately, the actuation force for the LT switch is unavailable. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Kiwi has a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the LT requires 65 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy force category, with the Kiwi being slightly heavier.
Considering the weight aspect, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows for longer typing sessions, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a stronger push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience. For these users, opting for options with heavier forces would be more suitable.
In terms of actuation force, without knowing the exact force required for the LT switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison to the Kiwi. However, since both switches fall within the medium-heavy force range, one can expect similar results in terms of actuation. When it comes to bottom out force, the Kiwi requires slightly more force than the LT, albeit by a minimal margin. Overall, individuals seeking a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy force requirement can find satisfaction in both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, it is evident that they have different distances. The Kiwi has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the LT has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Kiwi's 4.0 mm travel distance falls within the traditional range, offering a familiar depth that many people are accustomed to. On the other hand, the LT's 3.2 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, catering to those who prefer a quicker response time, such as gamers. The shorter travel distance allows for faster key presses and increased responsiveness. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial feel and a deeper key press, the Kiwi's longer travel distance would be the more suitable option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether a shorter or longer travel distance is preferred for a responsive and satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00, whereas the Gazzew LT 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
When it comes to sound, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This creates a satisfyingly snappy sound, adding an immersive element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT linear switch provides a deep and resonant "thockiness" thanks to its bassy sound profile. The sound is often described as a deep "thud" or a soft "knock," offering an auditory symphony of richness. Both switches offer a low-pitched sound, contributing to a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, but each one has its own unique characteristics to consider.
In terms of feel, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch features a stepped mechanism, providing a gentle and mild tactile feedback compared to more intense hypertactile switches. It allows for some pre-travel and/or post-travel, offering a medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. Additionally, the Kiwi switch is accented, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. With a polished finish and light factory lubing, the Kiwi ensures smooth and effortless key travel, reducing friction for a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the information for the Gazzew LT linear switch's feel is unknown, so no specific characteristics can be provided.
Taking all available information into account, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch excels in providing a medium to medium-strong bump for enhanced typing experience. Its sound profile is low-pitched, delivering a bass-heavy and mellow tone. The switch also offers a stepped and accented feel, combining mild tactility with smooth and polished key travel. Meanwhile, the Gazzew LT linear switch, with its enticing lilac hue, promises a deep and resonant "thockiness," but specific details about its feel are missing. While both switches feature a low-pitched sound profile, the Kiwi provides a medium tactile experience, whereas the LT's feel remains unknown. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference, but considering the available information, you can expect a similar immersive sound experience from both switches, along with varying levels of tactility provided by the Kiwi.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that enhances your typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each press and delivers a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, the TKC Kiwi switch is the way to go. These switches are lightly factory lubed, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, if you are seeking an auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness and a seamless glide with every keystroke, the Gazzew LT linear switch is the perfect choice. With its enticing lilac hue, the LT switch offers a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses while giving a satisfying "thock" or "knock" sensation. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile.
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