Gazzew LT vs. TTC Silent Red

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the Gazzew LT and the TTC Silent Red. The LT switches are best known for their enticing lilac hue and the auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness they produce. With a seamless glide and a categorized profile of being 'Bassy,' 'Thocky,' and 'Low-pitched,' these switches offer a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Reds are renowned for their smooth and seamless typing experience while being incredibly quiet. Ideal for office or shared living spaces, they have a muted sound profile and a consistent feel from top to bottom. Categorized as 'Buttery,' 'Mild,' 'Muted,' and 'Polished,' they also provide a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort. 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

Gazzew LT Linear

TTC Silent Red Linear

$6.50 per 10

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew LT and the TTC Silent Red, it becomes evident that they have distinct characteristics. The LT utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend for both its top and bottom housing, which is sometimes referred to as "boba plastic." This unique material delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In contrast, the Silent Red features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, which is relatively stiffer, results in a more clear and resonant sound. Therefore, while the LT offers a softer and more mellow sound experience, the Silent Red provides a crisper and more pronounced sound.

Furthermore, the bottom housing materials of the two switches differ as well. The Gazzew LT utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend for the bottom housing, contributing to the switch's rich and deep sound profile. Conversely, the Silent Red incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is renowned for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its relatively softer nature. It absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. Hence, the LT's bottom housing amplifies the switch's soft and rich sound, while the Silent Red's nylon bottom housing enhances its deep and full sound experience.

However, if we consider the similarities between the two switches, it is worth noting that both the Gazzew LT and the TTC Silent Red employ specific housing materials to optimize sound profiles. While the LT uses its proprietary Gazzew blend, sometimes referred to as "boba plastic," the Silent Red relies on polycarbonate for its top housing. Both materials contribute to achieving a distinct sound signature. Similarly, in terms of the bottom housing, the Gazzew LT's proprietary blend and the Silent Red's nylon material play a crucial role in enhancing the switches' respective sound profiles. Thus, despite their differences, both switches aim to deliver an immersive sound experience to keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

When comparing the Gazzew LT linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that there are similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The LT switch has an actuation force of unavailable grams, while the Silent Red switch has an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches fall under the category of medium-heavy for bottom out force, with the LT switch measuring at 65 grams and the Silent Red switch at 63.5 grams.

Considering the weight of the switches, it becomes clear that some individuals may prefer a lighter option for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. In this case, the Silent Red switch would be the lighter option due to its lower actuation force of 45 grams. On the other hand, those who prefer a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience might lean towards options with heavier forces.

It is important to note that the actuation force of the LT switch is not provided, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison in terms of actuation force between the two switches. However, since both switches have similar bottom out forces in the medium-heavy range, the typing experience of these switches might yield similar results in terms of the force required to press them fully.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, we can see that the LT has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Silent Red has a longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. The LT switch falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, offering a more responsive experience, particularly favored by gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch provides a deeper feeling due to its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial keystroke. Both options deviate from the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance but can deliver similar results depending on personal preference.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gazzew LT switches are best described as bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. These switches produce a deep, resonant sound with each key press, reminiscent of a satisfying "thud" or "knock". On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switches have a muted sound profile. They are designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making them a great choice for office settings or shared living spaces. It's important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, there is no specific information available about the Gazzew LT switches. However, the TTC Silent Red switches are described as buttery, mild, and polished. This indicates a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with a seamless and effortless typing sensation. These switches provide a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable and comfortable. The polished finish of the switches ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel.

Considering the available information, the Gazzew LT switches are known for their deep, resonant thockiness and seamless glide, making them a great choice for users who prioritize a satisfying and audibly enhanced typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switches are designed to offer a smooth and seamless typing experience while minimizing noise. They provide a gentle and comfortable typing feel with their buttery and polished characteristics. Although there is no specific information about the feel of the Gazzew LT switches, based on the descriptions, it is safe to assume that they would offer a similar smooth and seamless typing experience like the TTC Silent Red switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the user's preference for sound and their need for noise reduction.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you value a switch with a deep, resonant thockiness and a lower frequency sound profile, then the LT switches with their enticing lilac hue would be a great choice for you. The LTs also offer a seamless glide with every keystroke. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and silent typing experience, especially in office or shared living spaces, the Silent Reds would be the perfect fit. These switches have a muted sound profile and provide a consistent, buttery feel from top to bottom with a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort. Consider your desired sound and feel preferences, as well as the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard, to make the best decision for your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Gazzew LT Linear

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Red Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn more