KTT Laurel vs. Gazzew U4Tx

Overview

Introducing the KTT Laurel, a linear switch, and the Gazzew U4Tx, a tactile switch, both phenomenal options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Laurel, with its medium-light linear profile, boasts a perfect combination of responsiveness and comfort thanks to its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design. Additionally, users will appreciate the subtly low-pitched sound produced by this switch. On the other hand, the U4Tx switches offer the best of both worlds with an ingenious design that delivers a cleaner and refined sound profile. Typing on these switches elicits a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out, complemented by the whisper-quiet stealth when topping out. With each press, users will experience a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, ensuring a luxurious typing experience that is as acoustically pleasing as it is tactile. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision about which switch suits your preferences best.

By the numbers

KTT Laurel Linear

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$4.42

$3.95 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer distinct characteristics that result in unique sound profiles. The Laurel's POM top housing creates a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. It offers a distinct typing experience with a softer and more subtle sound when keys are released. On the other hand, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic," produces a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. This top housing material creates a more pronounced sound when keys are released, giving a satisfying feedback to the typist.

In terms of bottom housing, both the Laurel and the U4Tx utilize their respective housing materials to contribute to the overall sound and feel of the keystrokes. The POM bottom housing of the Laurel, similar to its top housing, brings a deeper and more muted sound profile. It adds a subtle cushioning effect to the keystrokes, resulting in a slightly dampened bottom-out sound. Conversely, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, known as "boba plastic," enhances the switch's overall sound profile by delivering a rich and deep sound due to its softness. This bottom housing material provides a more pronounced tactile feedback and influences the bottom-out sound when typing.

Although each switch has different top and bottom housing materials, the function of these materials serves a similar purpose for both switches. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the keystrokes. Both the Laurel's POM and the U4Tx's Gazzew blend contribute to a somewhat muted and soft bottom-out sound, resulting in a more cushioned typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing significantly influences the sound when releasing a key. The Laurel's POM and the U4Tx's Gazzew blend both deliver a unique sound profile that enhances the typing experience, with the Laurel exhibiting a softer sound and the U4Tx producing a more pronounced and satisfying sound when keys are released.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is clear that they have distinct characteristics. The Laurel switch has an actuation force of 43 grams, providing a light and gentle touch to trigger a keystroke. In comparison, the U4Tx switch's actuation force is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare. However, the bottom out force of the Laurel switch is 50 grams, suggesting that there is a slight increase in resistance when fully pressing down. On the other hand, the U4Tx switch boasts a bottom out force of 65 grams, which indicates a heavier and more substantial typing experience. Therefore, for those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, the Laurel switch would be the favorable choice. Conversely, individuals seeking a stronger push feel and a more significant typing experience would lean towards the U4Tx switch due to its higher bottom out force. It is worth noting that if the actuation force of the U4Tx switch is similar to the Laurel switch, users can expect similar results in terms of actuating a keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the KTT Laurel linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of comparison, both switches have relatively similar travel distances, with the U4Tx being slightly longer. This means that when pressing down on a key with the Laurel switch, you will feel a travel distance of 3.5 mm, whereas with the U4Tx switch, you will feel a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm.

Generally, a traditional travel distance for switches is around 4.0 mm, while the more shallow option is around 3.0 mm. However, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, particularly among gamers who prefer faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the KTT Laurel with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more substantial and deeper key press, the Gazzew U4Tx with its slightly longer travel distance might be preferred. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired key feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The KTT Laurel linear switch is best known for its medium-light weight and linear action, offering a balance between responsiveness and comfort. When it comes to sound, the Laurel switch has a subtly low-pitched profile, which results in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses.

On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch combines the best aspects of both worlds. It provides a satisfying tactile bump with each press, ensuring a luxurious typing experience. In terms of sound, the U4Tx switch produces a deep and resonant "thock" when bottoming out, accompanied by a whisper-quiet sound when topping out. The U4Tx can be described as having a bassy sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range and a rich depth similar to bass tones. Additionally, the U4Tx has a muted sound, minimizing the usual noise associated with mechanical keyboards.

In terms of feel, the KTT Laurel switch is described as snappy, meaning it is super responsive due to longer or dual-staged springs. This provides a more lively typing experience. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx switch is described as sharp, offering a high feedback intensity. The tactile bump is strong and crisp, allowing users to distinctly feel it with each keypress.

Based on this information, the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch have distinct subjective qualities in both sound and feel. The Laurel switch has a low-pitched sound and a snappy feel, while the U4Tx switch has a bassy and muted sound with a sharp tactile response. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with their respective characteristics. Choosing between them would depend on personal preference, as well as considering other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a lighter bottom out force and a smoother linear experience, the KTT Laurel switch would be an excellent choice for you. The Laurel offers a medium-light bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a light and effortless typing experience. With its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, this switch strikes the perfect balance of responsiveness and comfort. Additionally, the Laurel produces a subtly low-pitched sound profile, adding to its overall appeal.

On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a more tactile typing experience, the Gazzew U4Tx switch would be a great option for you. The U4Tx features a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a satisfying amount of feedback with each keystroke. The switch offers a sharp and distinct tactile bump, ensuring an enhanced typing experience. Furthermore, the U4Tx produces a refined and muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.

Ultimately, your decision between the KTT Laurel and the Gazzew U4Tx will depend on your personal preferences for bottom out force, tactile feedback, and sound profile. Consider factors such as the desired typing experience, whether you prioritize a lighter or heavier feel, and the type of sound you find more appealing. By taking these factors into account, you can select the switch that best suits your needs and preferences. In the end, the choice between the Laurel and the U4Tx will ensure a luxurious and enjoyable typing experience tailored to your liking.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Laurel Linear

$4.42

$3.95 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more