Gazzew LT vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew LT and the Gateron Type L stand out for their unique characteristics. The Gazzew LT, a linear switch, is renowned for its enticing lilac hue and deep, resonant thockiness, offering a seamless glide with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L, also a linear switch, is part of Sillyworks' innovative "Project Rehash," boasting the lightest weight in its series and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. While the LT is characterized as 'Bassy', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched', the Type L is described as 'Neutral', 'Subdued', 'Feathery', and 'Easy-to-press'. Each switch offers its own benefits, but diving deeper into their unique features will help you make the best decision for your keyboard needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and Gateron Type L both utilize unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. Both switches feature top housings that enhance the sound through their softness, with the LT employing a proprietary Gazzew blend plastic and the Type L using nylon. The softer nature of these materials allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder tone. While the materials may differ, the end result is a similar rich sound experience for both switches.
In terms of bottom housing, the Gazzew LT and Gateron Type L again showcase their individual characteristics. The LT's proprietary Gazzew blend plastic offers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, mirroring the effect of the top housing material. On the other hand, the Type L's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, showcasing its ability to absorb sound and create a rounder tone. Despite the difference in materials, both bottom housings play a crucial role in impacting the overall sound and feel of the switches.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it becomes clear that the Gazzew LT and Gateron Type L offer distinct qualities based on their top and bottom housing materials. The choice of material for each housing component directly affects the sound profile produced by the switches, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a key role in the sound when releasing a key. While their materials may vary, both switches ultimately provide a satisfying typing experience with rich and deep sound profiles, catering to different preferences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in weight. The LT has an actuation force of None grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke, while the Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams, which is still relatively light. In terms of bottom out force, the LT requires 65 grams for full depression, giving it a medium-heavy feel, while the Type L only needs 45 grams, making it a lighter option. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Gateron Type L, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Type L linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the LT switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Type L switch may provide a more substantial and satisfying feel for some users. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Gazzew LT switch may be the better option, but if you enjoy a deeper keypress, the Gateron Type L switch could be more suited to your preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50, whereas the Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gazzew LT linear switches are best known for their deep and resonant thockiness, creating a bassy and low-pitched sound profile that adds a satisfying auditory experience to typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switches offer a more subdued and neutral sound, with a lighter touch that produces a dampened and subtle sound signature. Ultimately, while the LT switches focus on delivering a deep and rich sound with each keystroke, the Type L switches provide a more moderate and gentle sound experience that can suit a variety of preferences.
In terms of feel, the Gazzew LT switches are not described in the provided information, so we will focus on the descriptions of the Gateron Type L switches. These switches are known for offering a feathery and easy-to-press typing experience, with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and strain during extended typing sessions. The feather-light touch of the Type L switches enhances the typing experience by providing a responsive and low-impact feel that can be beneficial for various typing purposes.
In conclusion, the Gazzew LT and Gateron Type L linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The LT switches provide a deep and bassy sound profile with a seamless glide during keystrokes, while the Type L switches deliver a more subdued and neutral sound experience with a feathery and easy-to-press feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, but both options are sure to provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gazzew LT linear switch or the Gateron Type L linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a deep, resonant thocky sound profile with a bassy undertone, then the LT switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more neutral, subdued sound profile with a feathery and easy-to-press feel, then the Type L switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to consider how each switch aligns with your typing preferences before making a decision.
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