Gazzew LT vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gazzew LT linear switch to the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it's clear that each offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The LT is celebrated for its captivating lilac hue and the satisfying deep, resonant thockiness that comes with each keystroke. With a seamless glide and characterized as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched, the LT is a popular choice for those seeking a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold switch may not have as many defining characteristics but is known for its clicky tactile feedback. Although it doesn't fit neatly into specific categories, the Gold switch offers a distinct audible click with each press. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and Outemu Gold switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Gazzew LT's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," creates a rich and deep sound due to its softness. In contrast, the Gold's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic, allows for a more clear and resonant sound. While the LT's bottom housing is also made of the Gazzew blend, the Gold's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
While the Gazzew LT and Outemu Gold switches have different top and bottom housing materials, the impact of each material is felt at different points in the typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch, such as the Gazzew LT's Gazzew blend or the Gold's nylon, will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing, whether it's the Gazzew blend or polycarbonate, will affect the sound when a key is released. The Gazzew blend's softness contributes to a rich sound profile, while polycarbonate's stiffness results in a sharper and crisper sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the Outemu Gold's polycarbonate top housing offers the advantage of being translucent, making it ideal for switches that intend to utilize RGB lighting. The Gazzew LT's Gazzew blend, while not translucent, still provides a unique sound profile that is rich and deep. Both housing materials have their own strengths in shaping the overall sound of the switch, with the Gazzew blend creating a softer tone and the polycarbonate producing a clearer and more resonant sound. Ultimately, the choice between the Gazzew LT and Outemu Gold switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and desired aesthetic features.
Weight
When comparing the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The LT switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Gold switch with a bottom out force of 60 grams. However, the actuation force of the Gold switch is lighter at 45 grams compared to the LT switch where the actuation force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter key press may lean towards the Gold switch for its lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the LT switch due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the Outemu Gold clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the LT switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Gold switch could provide a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, so choosing between them would depend on personal preference and typing style. Ultimately, if you prefer a shorter travel distance for quick key presses, the Gazzew LT linear switch would be the better option, while the Outemu Gold clicky switch may be more suitable for those seeking a deeper key press sensation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50, whereas the Outemu Gold comes in at $3.10.
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 Gazzew LT linear switch is renowned for its deep and resonant thockiness, providing a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke, thanks to its bassy and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch does not have any specific sound characteristics mentioned, leaving it unknown how it compares in terms of sound. When it comes to feel, details about the LT and Gold switches are not provided, making it difficult to compare the tactile experience between the two. However, based on the available information, it is clear that the Gazzew LT linear switch excels in providing a rich and bass-heavy sound profile, along with a seamless glide during typing. These qualities contribute to a premium typing experience for enthusiasts looking for a satisfying auditory and tactile feedback. If the Outemu Gold clicky switch offers a similar level of quality in terms of sound and feel, users can expect comparable results in terms of typing satisfaction. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a deep, resonant sound profile, the Gazzew LT switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a clicky tactile feedback, the Outemu Gold switch might be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize a smooth linear feel or a clicky tactile response in your mechanical keyboard switches. Consider your preferences carefully and choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences.
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