Gazzew LT vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew LT and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The LT, with its enticing lilac hue, is best known for its deep, resonant "thockiness" that creates an auditory symphony while typing. Additionally, it provides a seamless glide with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear is considered one of the most innovative switches in recent times. It earns its semi-silent label from its whisper-quiet topping-out sound, while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. With a silky smooth type feel that's not over-polished, it offers a unique typing experience. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics and advantages. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew LT and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches offer distinct characteristics that result in different sound profiles and tactile experiences. Starting with the top housing, the LT utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend known as "boba plastic," which lends to a soft and rich sound. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear employs polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper and crisper sound. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for RGB lighting. Despite these differences, both switches deliver satisfying results, albeit with contrasting tones and timbres.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Gazzew LT utilizes its proprietary "boba plastic." Similar to the top housing, this plastic blend contributes to a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear features a nylon bottom housing, a classic material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound and create a duller, rounder sound when typing.
When considering the overall experience of typing on these switches, it's worth noting that the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing holds more influence over the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Gazzew LT and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear may differ in their housing materials, both can provide satisfying results, albeit with variations in sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it is worth noting that the exact actuation force for both switches is unknown. However, the LT switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 62 grams, which is categorized as medium.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Semi-Silent Linear switch might be a more suitable choice as it offers a slightly lower bottom out force. This can be advantageous for individuals who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions, as the lighter weight allows for greater endurance.
On the other hand, if a user prefers a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the LT switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force might be the preferable option. The additional weight can provide a heightened tactile sensation and a more satisfying keystroke, appealing to those who value a heavier actuation force.
While the actuation forces for both switches are unavailable, it can be assumed that, since they are part of the same product line, they may have similar actuation forces. Therefore, if a similar actuation force is desired, either of these switches may yield comparable results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke.
In conclusion, the Gazzew LT linear switch offers a heavier bottom out force compared to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, which is lighter. Individual preferences for typing experience and endurance will ultimately determine the most suitable choice between these two options.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, we can see that they have different distances. The LT has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Semi-Silent Linear has a slightly deeper key press compared to the LT.
In terms of overall travel distance preferences, the most traditional travel distance is around 4.0 mm, while 3.0 mm is considered the most shallow. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you are someone who values responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the Gazzew LT linear switch may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more substantial feel with a greater depth in each key press, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear with its longer travel distance could be a better choice.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gazzew LT and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear will depend on personal preference and typing/gaming style. Both switches offer their own unique travel distances, allowing users to choose accordingly to their desired level of feedback and responsiveness. Whether opting for the shorter travel distance of the LT or the longer travel distance of the Semi-Silent Linear, both switches will provide satisfactory results, tailored to the individual's needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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
The Gazzew LT linear switch is best known for its deep, resonant thockiness and seamless glide. With their enticing lilac hue, these switches offer an auditory symphony of deep "thud" or soft "knock" sounds when pressed and released. The LTs have a bass-heavy and mellow tone, resulting in a rich and satisfying sound profile. In terms of feel, the information provided is unknown, but based on the description of their sound, it can be inferred that the LT switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience.
On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is hailed as an innovative release, offering a blend of whisper-quiet topping-out sound and clacky bottom-out sound. These switches have a subdued sound signature, producing a dampened sound when pressed. While not completely silent, they offer a more subtle and moderate sound profile compared to most switches. The feel of the Semi-Silent Linear switches is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. The information does not provide specific details about the key travel or responsiveness of these switches.
Overall, the Gazzew LT linear switch excels in sound with its deep and rich thockiness, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch stands out for its semi-silent nature and clacky bottom-out sound. Both switches offer smooth typing experiences, but the LT's sound profile leans towards a bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Semi-Silent Linear delivers a more subdued and moderate sound. While the feel of the switches is not explicitly mentioned for the LT, it is likely to provide a seamless glide, similar to the buttery and polished nature of the Semi-Silent Linear switches. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired sound and feel for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a deep and resonant sound with each keypress, the Gazzew LT linear switch is the choice for you. With their enticing lilac hue, these switches offer a satisfying "thock" sound that resembles a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when pressed and released. Additionally, the LTs provide a seamless glide with every keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued and dampened sound, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is the way to go. This innovative switch maintains a clacky bottom-out sound while producing a whisper-quiet topping-out sound. It offers a more subtle and neutral sound signature compared to most switches. Furthermore, the Semi-Silent Linear provides a silky smooth typing experience without being overly polished. Ultimately, the choice between the LT and Semi-Silent Linear boils down to the sound profile and typing feel that aligns with your preferences.
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