Gazzew LT vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may find yourself comparing two popular options: the Gazzew LT and the TTC Speed Silver. The Gazzew LT switches are well-known for their unique lilac hue and offer a truly satisfying typing experience with their deep, resonant thockiness. These linear switches provide a seamless glide with each keystroke, making them ideal for those who appreciate a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switches are perfect for individuals who prioritize speed and precision. These linear switches offer a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile, allowing for quick and effortless actuation with their reduced travel distance. Categorized as neutral, mild, and polished, the TTC Speed Silver switches provide a fast and precise typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and TTC Speed Silver differ in their choice of housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The LT features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. In contrast, the Speed Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucency of the polycarbonate is advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting. Despite these differences, both switches offer a unique and satisfying typing experience, albeit with variations in sound.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the LT and the Speed Silver also employ different materials. The LT incorporates its proprietary Gazzew blend, contributing to a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. On the other hand, the Speed Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing, a classic material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Each material brings its own characteristics to the typing experience, allowing users to choose the sound profile that suits their preferences.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings, it is important to note that these elements contribute differently to the overall sound and feel of the switch. Pressing down on a switch will predominantly showcase the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound produced when releasing a key is more influenced by the top housing. This contrast highlights the significance of both housing components in shaping the overall typing experience, ensuring that nuances in sound and feel are carefully considered.
In conclusion, while the Gazzew LT and TTC Speed Silver utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles. The LT's "boba plastic" top housing delivers a rich and deep sound, while the Speed Silver's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Furthermore, the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the LT provides a soft and rich sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Speed Silver elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding the role of each housing component allows users to choose the switch that best suits their desired sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The actuation force of the Gazzew LT switch is currently unavailable, while the actuation force of the TTC Speed Silver switch is 45 grams. This indicates that the TTC Speed Silver requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Gazzew LT. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Gazzew LT requiring 65 grams and the TTC Speed Silver requiring 55 grams. This suggests that although the actuation force may differ, typing experience will be quite similar when it comes to the bottom out force. In terms of weight, the information provided does not indicate which switch is lighter or heavier. Nevertheless, weight is an important factor to consider as it can affect typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter switch might opt for the TTC Speed Silver to allow for longer typing sessions, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Gazzew LT with its potentially heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard. The Gazzew LT linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The LT has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Speed Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Speed Silver has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the LT.
In terms of the overall spectrum of travel distances, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances. The most traditional travel distance is around 4.0 mm, while the most shallow is around 3.0 mm. So, if you prefer a keyboard with a more traditional feel, both the LT and the Speed Silver will give you a shorter travel experience.
However, there are slight nuances in the preferences for travel distances. Gamers, for example, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. So, if you are a gamer and prioritize quick reactions, the LT's slightly shorter travel distance may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, some people find short travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer a deeper typing experience. For those individuals, the Speed Silver with its slightly longer travel distance may be a more suitable option.
In summary, while the Gazzew LT linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch have different travel distances, both fall within the range of shorter distances. The LT has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Speed Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making the Speed Silver slightly longer. The choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and specific needs, with the LT providing a slightly quicker response time for gamers and the Speed Silver offering a slightly deeper typing experience for those who prefer it.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 and resonant thockiness, providing a satisfying and immersive auditory experience. The LTs offer a seamless glide with every keystroke, enhancing the overall typing feel. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is renowned for its fast and precise typing experience. These switches have a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile. With a reduced travel distance, the Speed Silvers allow for quick and effortless actuation.
When it comes to sound, the Gazzew LT switch is characterized by a bassy and thocky profile. The lower frequency range of the LTs produces a deep and rich sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound profile without any specific emphasis on certain frequencies. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.
Regarding feel, there is no specific information available for the Gazzew LT switch. However, the TTC Speed Silver switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. A mild switch offers a more gentle and approachable typing experience, suitable for a wide range of users. Additionally, a polished switch indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gazzew LT and TTC Speed Silver switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The LTs excel in sound, providing a deep and resonant thockiness, while the Speed Silvers prioritize a fast and precise typing experience. If you are looking for a satisfying and immersive auditory experience, the LTs would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you value quick and effortless typing, the Speed Silvers would be a suitable option. However, it is important to consider other factors such as personal preference, board choice, and keycap selection to achieve the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a deep and resonant typing sound, as well as a seamless keystroke experience, then the Gazzew LT switches would be a suitable choice for you. With their medium-heavy bottom out force and enticing lilac hue, these switches offer a satisfying auditory symphony of deep, thocky tones. On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, the TTC Speed Silver switches would be a better fit. With their reduced travel distance, these switches allow for quick and effortless actuation, making them ideal for those seeking a swift typing experience. Additionally, they have a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various purposes. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound and feel, with the LT providing a bassy and thocky typing experience, while the Speed Silver offers a mild and polished typing feel.
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