Gazzew LT vs. Haimu Orange Sea

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a crucial role in achieving the optimal typing experience. The Gazzew LT switches are celebrated for their stunning lilac hue and distinct auditory characteristic, offering a deep, resonant thock that provides an immersive feedback experience. This 'bassy' and 'thocky' performance caters to enthusiasts who appreciate tactile feedback paired with a low-pitched sound, making every keystroke feel substantial and fulfilling. Conversely, the Haimu Orange Sea switches boast an exquisitely smooth typing feel coupled with a more neutral sound profile. This accentuated yet invigorating typing experience is ideal for users who prioritize smoothness without the distraction of overt auditory feedback. While both switches present compelling advantages—whether it be the rich texture of the LT or the seamless glide of the Orange Sea—individual preferences will heavily dictate the best fit for one's typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gazzew LT Linear

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

$6.50 per 10

$2.79 per 10

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Housing materials

The comparison of the housing materials between the Gazzew LT and the Haimu Orange Sea highlights distinct differences that significantly influence their sound profiles. The Gazzew LT features a proprietary plastic blend often referred to as "boba plastic" for its top housing, which is designed to produce a rich and deep sound due to its softness. In contrast, the Orange Sea employs polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The material composition of the Gazzew LT aims for a warm tonal quality, while the Orange Sea’s polycarbonate construction emphasizes clarity and brightness. Thus, although both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, their sound characteristics are affected by the differing materials used in their top housings.

The bottom housing also contributes to the overall sound experience, where the Gazzew LT once again utilizes its proprietary "boba plastic" blend, mirroring the softness found in its top housing. Conversely, the Haimu Orange Sea utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, largely due to nylon's sound-absorbing properties. While both switches employ softer materials for their bottom housings, the nylon used in the Orange Sea is a more classic option that results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the deeper tones produced by the LT’s "boba plastic." This difference highlights the diverse impact that each material has on the bottom-out sound and overall typing experience of each switch.

Ultimately, if both the Gazzew LT and Haimu Orange Sea were to share the same sound profile features, it would largely depend on the way their materials interact. The softer top housing of the Gazzew LT paired with its equivalent softness in the bottom housing both aim to create a cohesive auditory experience, while the Orange Sea's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom provide a contrasting dynamic that melds clarity with depth. In this sense, if their profiles were similar, one could achieve a desirable balance between warmth and crispness, creating an engaging typing experience. The effectiveness of a switch will inherently rely on how well the properties of both housings are harmonized, resulting in a nuanced blend of sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the Gazzew LT linear switch to the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, there is a notable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gazzew LT switch features a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel, but its actuation force is unknown. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea switch has a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it significantly lighter and more suitable for long typing sessions or extended gaming. This difference means that users who prefer a lighter switch may find the Orange Sea more comfortable, while those who like a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Gazzew LT, despite the lack of information on its actuation force. Overall, the stark contrast in their bottom out forces further emphasizes the Haimu Orange Sea as the lighter option compared to the heavier Gazzew LT.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, we find a clear distinction. The Gazzew LT features a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Haimu Orange Sea extends slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This means that the Gazzew LT offers a more responsive experience, making it especially appealing to gamers who prefer quicker actuation for faster response times. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea may provide a deeper feel, which some users might enjoy for a more pronounced tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches hinges on individual preference; if a user values a shorter, more immediate interaction, the Gazzew LT is the better fit, whereas those who appreciate a deeper travel may opt for the Haimu Orange Sea.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gazzew LT linear switch is celebrated for its deep, resonant qualities that produce a distinctly thocky experience, characterized by a bassy and low-pitched tone that creates a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. This rich sound profile offers a pleasurable auditory symphony, akin to a soft thud with every key press, making it ideal for users who value a pronounced acoustic experience. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch has a neutral sound signature, which implies a more understated auditory feedback. While specifics about its sound characteristics are not provided, it is clear that the Orange Sea prioritizes a subtle approach compared to the bold thockiness of the LT, meaning that users looking for a quieter, less intrusive typing experience may lean towards the Orange Sea.

When discussing feel, the Gazzew LT switch lacks a definitive description, while the Haimu Orange Sea offers an invigorating experience with a medium tactile sensation. The Orange Sea provides pronounced feedback, resulting in a snappy and reactive feel during typing, making each keystroke feel satisfying and immersive. With its accented nature, it’s balanced enough for users who appreciate a tangible response without it being overwhelming. Without detailed input on the feel of the LT, one might surmise that the seamless glide it offers could still yield a relatively enjoyable typing experience, albeit potentially lacking the definitive tactile characteristics present in the Orange Sea.

In conclusion, while both switches serve the linear switch market, they cater to different user preferences. The Gazzew LT stands out with its rich, thocky sound profile, appealing to those who enjoy a deeper acoustic feedback, while the Haimu Orange Sea entices with its neutral sound and invigorating tactile response. Users looking for an engaging auditory and tactile experience may gravitate toward the LT, whereas those who prefer a more subdued sound with a comforting tactile feel might find the Orange Sea more appealing. Ultimately, your choice will reflect your specific typing needs and personal preferences in sound and feel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, your choice between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch should ultimately depend on your typing preferences and the kind of experience you aim to have. If you enjoy a more substantial key feel with a heavier bottom-out force of 65 grams, and you're attracted to a deep, thocky sound that adds a satisfying auditory element to your typing, then the Gazzew LT is the ideal option for you. Its characteristic smooth gliding and resonant sound profile could enhance the enjoyment of your typing sessions, particularly if you prioritize a tactile feedback experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a more nimble actuation force of 45 grams and a smooth sound signature that minimizes distraction, the Haimu Orange Sea switches would be better suited for your needs. Their invigorating and reactive feel is perfect for fast-paced typing or gaming, delivering a responsive experience without the heavier feedback. By considering your personal preferences for sound, actuation force, and typing feel, you can select the switch that aligns best with your individual style, ensuring a more enjoyable and efficient keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew LT Linear

$6.50 per 10

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Haimu Orange Sea Linear

$2.79 per 10

Learn more