Gazzew LT vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come to mind are the Gazzew LT and the Kailh Sage. On one hand, the Gazzew LT switches are highly regarded for their alluring lilac hue and the auditory symphony they produce with each keystroke. Described as "linear thock" switches, they offer a deep, resonant thockiness that is sure to captivate any typist's ears. Additionally, the LTs provide a seamless glide, adding a touch of smoothness to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switches offer a distinct clicky typing experience. With a weight that can be described as heavy and a refreshingly sharp clickiness, these switches create an invigorating and crunchy sensation with each press. While these general descriptions provide a glimpse into the qualities of each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 the Kailh Sage have contrasting housing materials. The LT features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known as "boba plastic," which provides a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In contrast, the Sage utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the Sage's translucent nature makes it suitable for RGB lighting. While the LT's top housing offers a softer and more mellow sound, the Sage's polycarbonate delivers a brighter and more vibrant auditory experience.
Similarly, the housing materials for the bottom of the LT and the Sage differ. The Gazzew LT employs its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, also referred to as "boba plastic," which provides a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. On the other hand, the Sage utilizes a nylon bottom housing, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics.
When both the top and bottom housings of a switch differ, the qualities of each housing material are divided. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, whereas the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound produced when letting go of a key. Therefore, users can expect different tactile and auditory experiences when using the Gazzew LT and the Kailh Sage due to their contrasting top and bottom housing materials.
In conclusion, while the Gazzew LT and the Kailh Sage share some similarities in terms of utilizing proprietary blends for their top housing, the resulting sound profiles are quite distinct. The LT's "boba plastic" provides a softer and deeper sound, whereas the Sage's polycarbonate creates a sharper and crisper sound. Likewise, the differing bottom housing materials, with the LT using its Gazzew blend and the Sage featuring nylon, contribute to variations in sound and feel. It is essential for keyboard enthusiasts to consider their desired typing experience when choosing between these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is important to consider the weight as it can greatly impact the typing experience. The LT switch has an unknown actuation force, but a bottom out force of 65 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Sage switch also has an unknown actuation force, but a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the LT switch may be more suitable as its bottom out force is slightly lighter than that of the Sage switch. This allows for longer typing periods without causing excessive fatigue. However, for individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Sage switch with its slightly heavier bottom out force provides a satisfying tactile experience.
While the actuation force of both switches remains unknown, it is worth mentioning that if they are the same, users can expect similar results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch will depend on individual preferences – whether one prefers a lighter typing experience or a more substantial, heavier feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is evident that the Sage has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the LT has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both of these switches deviate from the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance that is commonly found in keyboards. These shorter travel distances have gained popularity, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you are seeking a more responsive typing or gaming experience, opting for the LT with its shorter travel distance would be ideal. However, it is worth noting that some individuals may find shorter travel distances too abrupt and might prefer the hearty depth offered by the Sage's longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50, whereas the Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25.
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 best known for its auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness. Typing on these switches offers a satisfyingly deep "thud" or soft "knock" sound when pressed and released. They have a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The seamless glide of the LT switches adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch offers a distinct clicky typing experience. The Sage switches have a heavy weight and provide a refreshingly sharp clickiness. They produce a sound that can be described as crunchy, similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
As for the feel, specific information about the LT switches is unavailable. However, the Sage switches are described as invigorating and sharp. An invigorating switch offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, resulting in an immersive typing sensation. The tactile bump of sharp tactile switches is strong and crisp, providing a distinct and noticeable feedback with each keypress.
In conclusion, the Gazzew LT linear switches provide a deep and resonant thockiness with a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, offering a seamless glide while typing. The Kailh Sage clicky switches, on the other hand, deliver a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and sharp clickiness. While the subjective qualities of sound and feel differ between these two switches, both provide unique and satisfying typing experiences. Depending on personal preference, one may prefer the rich and deep sound of the LT or the crisp and crunchy sound of the Sage. Additionally, the feel of the Sage switches is invigorating and sharp, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy typing sensation. By considering these factors and selecting the appropriate keyboard and keycaps, one can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, the choice between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch ultimately depends on your preferences for sound and feel. If you value a deep, resonant thockiness and a seamless glide with every keystroke, then the LT switches are an excellent choice. Their enticing lilac hue adds an extra touch of visual appeal as well. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct clicky typing experience with a refreshing sharp clickiness, then the Sage switches are the way to go. You'll experience a crunchy sound akin to stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. The Sage switches also offer an invigorating and sharp tactile feel, providing pronounced feedback and a snappy typing sensation. Overall, it's important to consider the auditory symphony and seamless glide of the LT switches versus the distinct clickiness and invigorating feel of the Sage switches when making your decision.
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