Gazzew LT vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gazzew LT and the KTT Miaowu mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. The Gazzew LT, known for its enticing lilac hue, provides a satisfying auditory experience with its deep, resonant thockiness, making typing a symphony of sound. Its seamless glide with every keystroke enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu leverages advanced molds for enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action. The incorporation of POK in its stem sets it apart from other switches with conventional POM stems, giving it a distinctive feel. Ultimately, choosing between the Gazzew LT and the KTT Miaowu depends on whether you prefer a bassy, thocky, low-pitched feel or a bouncy, clacky experience. 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
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and the KTT Miaowu both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The LT's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known as "boba plastic," provides a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, while the Miaowu's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the sound experience. On the other hand, the LT's Gazzew blend bottom housing also delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness, while the Miaowu's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer texture.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gazzew LT and the KTT Miaowu, they both aim to enhance the sound experience of the switches. While the LT's Gazzew blend housing materials provide a softer and richer sound profile, the Miaowu's polycarbonate and nylon housing materials offer a sharper and fuller sound experience. Whether you prefer a deep and mellow typing sound or a clear and resonant sound, both switches cater to different preferences in sound profiles. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings of each switch also create a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gazzew LT and the KTT Miaowu play significant roles in shaping the sound profiles of the switches. The Gazzew LT utilizes its proprietary blend for both the top and bottom housings to deliver a rich and deep sound profile, while the Miaowu combines polycarbonate and nylon to create a sharper and fuller sound profile. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences based on the qualities of their housing materials, with the top housing affecting the sound upon key release and the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in sound characteristics and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the Gazzew LT linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The LT has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while the Miaowu has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. However, the actuation force of the LT is not specified, whereas the Miaowu has an actuation force of 43 grams. This means that the Miaowu requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the LT. When considering weight, some may prefer the Miaowu for its lighter actuation and bottom out forces, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the LT with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is shorter than the KTT Miaowu linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The LT offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster keystrokes. On the other hand, the Miaowu provides a slightly deeper feeling when pressing down on the keys, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial key press. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard, catering to those seeking a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two would depend on whether you prioritize speed or key depth in your typing preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
The Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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 Gazzew LT linear switch is best known for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched characteristics, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Depending on your preference, the LT will provide a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Miaowu will offer a crisp and percussive sound. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch is also influenced by the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gazzew LT linear switch does not have specific descriptors provided, suggesting that its tactile experience is more subjective and open to interpretation. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is described as bouncy, giving users a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation with lively and responsive keys that provide a rebound effect when pressed. This can enhance the typing experience for individuals who prefer a more dynamic tactile response.
Considering the available information, if you are seeking a mechanical keyboard switch with a deep, resonant thockiness and a seamless glide in both sound and feel, the Gazzew LT linear switch may be the optimal choice for you. Conversely, if you prefer a more sharp, snappy sound profile and a bouncy, spring-like tactile feedback, the KTT Miaowu linear switch could be the better option. Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the ideal switch for your typing needs, so trying out both switches firsthand may provide the best insight into which one aligns with your preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a deep, resonant thocky sound profile, then the Gazzew LT linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother keystroke action with a bit of bounce, then the KTT Miaowu linear switch would be the better option. Consider your preferences in terms of sound, feel, and bottom out force to determine which switch best suits your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the Gazzew LT and KTT Miaowu linear switches will come down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. Happy typing!