Gazzew LT vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, preferences can vary widely based on tactile sensations and sound profiles. The Gazzew LT switches, celebrated for their striking lilac hue, offer an experience characterized by deep, resonant thockiness that provides a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. Their smooth glide further enhances the typing experience, making them an excellent choice for those who favor a richer acoustic environment and a thocky feel. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switches deliver a feather-light touch, making them ideal for extensive typing sessions where comfort is paramount. With medium acoustics, the Sakura strikes a balance between a more subtle sound and the need for a responsive, agile typing experience. While both switches appeal to linear switch enthusiasts, they cater to differing needs—whether you prioritize auditory feedback and a distinctive sound or prefer a lightweight touch for marathon typing. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and Huano Sakura switches employ distinct materials for their housing components, resulting in varied sound profiles and tactile experiences. The top housing of the LT features a proprietary blend known as “boba plastic,” which is celebrated for its softness and ability to create a rich, deep sound profile. This material is designed specifically to enhance auditory feedback during typing, emphasizing a fuller sound when keys are released. In contrast, the Sakura utilizes POK (polyketone) material for its top housing, which not only boasts a smooth texture with a low coefficient of friction but also prioritizes durability. The POK material contributes to a typing experience that can be described as clacky while maintaining a level of smoothness, potentially offering a different auditory experience than the LT.
When examining the bottom housing of both switches, we see more traditional materials at play. The Gazzew LT features the same proprietary "boba plastic" for the bottom housing, further enhancing the cohesive sound profile across the switch. This choice allows for a consistent experience, with sound and feel shaped primarily by the softness of the material, similar to the characteristics demonstrated in the LT's top housing. Conversely, the Sakura’s bottom housing is made of nylon, a classic and widely used material that is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper, rounder auditory feedback when the key bottoms out. While the cylindrical shape and construction methods may be similar, the properties of nylon create a contrasting experience compared to the Gazzew’s proprietary blend.
Ultimately, the differences in material compositions suggest that while both switches aim to deliver tactile and auditory satisfaction, their approaches diverge significantly. Users might find that typing on the Gazzew LT offers a richer, more consistent sound—a quality derived from the same material used across both housings—while the Huano Sakura enhances durability and smoothness, potentially at the expense of the sound profile's depth. Despite the contrasts, the general design principle remains consistent: how the features of each housing influence the tactile sensations and sound produced during typing. By understanding how these materials interact within each switch, users can select the switch that best aligns with their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force that cater to varying typing preferences. The LT switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is classified as medium-heavy, but its actuation force is unknown. In contrast, the Sakura switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a more suitable option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, such as during work or long gaming sessions. Additionally, the Sakura's bottom out force is significantly lower, providing a softer feel when bottoming out compared to the LT. Overall, if you're looking for a heavier switch with a more substantial typing feel, the Gazzew LT might be your choice, while the Huano Sakura is better suited for those who enjoy a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Gazzew LT boasts a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it the shorter of the two switches, while the Huano Sakura features a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. For gamers seeking rapid response times, the LT's shorter distance may provide an edge, allowing for quicker key presses and enhanced performance. On the other hand, the Sakura's longer travel distance might appeal to those who favor a more substantial tactile feel and deeper engagement when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50, whereas the Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50.
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
In terms of sound, the Gazzew LT linear switch stands out with its deep, resonant, and thocky acoustic profile, producing a rich bassy tone that adds a tactile enjoyment to the typing experience. When each key is pressed, it generates a satisfying "thud," appealing to those who appreciate auditory feedback, especially in casual or gaming contexts. In contrast, while the Huano Sakura linear switch is noted for its medium acoustics, specific descriptors about sound aren’t provided. This indicates that while the Sakura might not have the same depth and richness in sound, it might provide a more subdued or neutral auditory experience. Keep in mind that the overall sound is influenced by the keyboard and keycap choices, so both switches can offer varying results based on their environment.
When it comes to feel, the Gazzew LT linear switch provides a seamless glide with every keystroke, allowing for a smooth typing experience that doesn't suffer from tactile bumps or interruptions. Unfortunately, specifics about the feel of the LT switch beyond this smoothness aren't present, nor is there detailed information to describe the tactile qualities of the Huano Sakura linear switch. However, the Sakura is known for its feather-light touch, which indicates that it might offer a distinct lightness that can enhance comfort during extended typing sessions. With this in mind, if someone favors a more effortless pressing experience, the Sakura could suit them well, while the LT might cater to those who enjoy the combination of sound and feel.
In conclusion, the Gazzew LT and the Huano Sakura linear switches present unique characteristics that will appeal to different typists. The LT's rich thocky sound will attract those who enjoy auditory feedback, while the Sakura's feather-light touch could provide comfort for longer tasks. While the Gazzew LT offers a seamless glide, the lack of detailed tactile feedback for both switches means some personal exploration may be necessary to find the perfect fit. Ultimately, what they may share in common is the potential for satisfying typing experiences, albeit through different sensory avenues, depending on individual preferences and the keyboard setup they are paired with.
Conclusion
Ultimately, choosing between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch depends on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you lean towards a more tactile and sonorous typing experience, the Gazzew LT switches might be your best bet. Their heavier actuation force of 65 grams provides a substantial feel that can enhance feedback, making them particularly satisfying for those who enjoy pronounced, deeper acoustics and a thocky sound profile. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience, especially for long hours of use, the Huano Sakura switches, with their 45 grams of actuation force, are ideal. Their lighter touch allows for quick keystrokes without fatigue, making them perfect for fast-paced typing or gaming sessions. In summary, choose the Gazzew LT for a richer, more resonant sound and a pronounced touch, while opting for the Huano Sakura if you prefer a smooth, lightweight feel that’s easy on your fingers.
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