Gazzew LT vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that may catch your attention are the Gazzew LT and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, both linear switches. The Gazzew LT switch is well-known for its captivating lilac hue and the satisfying deep thockiness it produces with each keystroke, offering a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch stands out with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing silent typing and exceptional smoothness. While the LT switch is characterized as 'Bassy, Thocky, Low-pitched', the Zero Degree 0° switch does not have specific categorizations available. These general pointers can help you decide on the best switch for you; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to find the perfect fit for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gazzew LT and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° provide distinct sound profiles due to their unique properties. The LT's Gazzew blend top housing, known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The differences in material stiffness result in contrasting auditory experiences, with the Gazzew LT offering a softer, more mellow sound, while the Zero Degree 0° produces a more clear and resonant sound.
In terms of the bottom housings, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their materials. The Gazzew LT's proprietary blend bottom housing, similar to its top housing, provides a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0°'s nylon bottom housing yields a deeper and fuller sound due to its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. The contrast between the softer boba plastic and the more sound-absorbing nylon results in distinct typing experiences for users of each switch.
Despite their differences, the Gazzew LT and Gateron Zero Degree 0° both showcase the importance of housing materials in producing unique sound profiles for mechanical switches. While the LT utilizes a softer boba plastic for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a rich and deep sound, the Zero Degree 0° combines a stiffer polycarbonate top housing with a softer nylon bottom housing for a sharper and fuller sound experience. In the end, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Gazzew LT has an actuation force of None grams, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is medium-heavy, whereas the bottom out force of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Gateron Zero Degree 0° for a smoother typing experience, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Gazzew LT. Overall, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Gateron Zero Degree 0° has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gazzew LT. The difference of 0.4 mm may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Gazzew LT with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Gateron Zero Degree 0°. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
Overall, when comparing the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that both switches offer unique qualities. The LT switch stands out with its deep, resonant thockiness that provides a satisfying auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch boasts a revolutionary design that prioritizes silent typing with unparalleled smoothness and stability. While the LT switch focuses on delivering a bass-heavy sound profile, the Zero Degree 0° switch absorbs sound and reduces noise for a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a medium-heavy bottom out force and provides a deep, resonant thockiness with each keystroke, the Gazzew LT linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with an unknown bottom out force that delivers unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise, then the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the sound profile and feel of the switch, as both the LT and Zero Degree 0° offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
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