KTT Matcha vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that provide a satisfying tactile experience are the KTT Matcha and Gazzew U4. The KTT Matcha is widely known for its comfortable and snappy tactility, making typing on it a delight. Additionally, users can expect a distinctively clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switches offer a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, providing a responsive typing experience. What sets the U4 apart is its unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, adding a unique touch to each keystroke. Furthermore, its sound profile is impressively whisper quiet. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide which switch suits you best.

By the numbers

KTT Matcha Tactile

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$5.20

$4.88 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Gazzew U4 differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Matcha utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that allows for a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This unique blend delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness.

In terms of aesthetics, the Matcha's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for users planning to incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the U4's Gazzew blend housing does not offer this translucency. Therefore, if RGB lighting is a priority for your setup, the Matcha would be a better choice.

The difference in housing materials also affects the feel and sound when pressing down and releasing a key. In the case of the Matcha, the qualities of the bottom housing, with its stiffer polycarbonate composition, contribute to the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing of the Matcha, also made of polycarbonate, plays a greater role in the sound produced when letting go of a key. For the U4, the softer Gazzew blend bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing made of the same blend enhances the sound when releasing a key.

Overall, these housing materials offer distinct sound profiles and aesthetic options. The polycarbonate used in the Matcha provides a sharper and crisper sound, while the Gazzew blend in the U4 produces a rich and deep sound. If you prioritize RGB lighting, the Matcha's translucent polycarbonate housing is the better choice. However, both switches offer satisfying tactile feedback, with the bottom-out and release sound influenced by their respective housing compositions.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there are notable differences to consider. Firstly, the Matcha has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the U4 requires slightly more force at 43 grams. However, both switches provide a relatively light actuation force, allowing for swift and effortless typing.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the Matcha requires 45 grams of force to fully press down, whereas the U4 proves to be heavier with a bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the U4 provides a more substantial typing experience, as it requires a stronger push to fully depress the key.

Considering the weight aspect, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience would opt for the Matcha switch, as its actuation and bottom out forces are lower. This makes it suitable for prolonged typing sessions or extensive gaming. On the other hand, those who desire a more robust and satisfying keystroke might prefer the U4 switch due to its heavier bottom out force.

In conclusion, while the Matcha offers a lighter actuation and bottom out force, the U4 provides a slightly heavier typing experience. Selecting between the two depends on personal preference, as some may prioritize a lighter touch for extended usage, while others seek a more substantial push feel for enhanced typing feedback.

Travel distance

The KTT Matcha tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm. Both switches offer a noticeable tactile feel when pressed, but the Matcha has a slightly longer travel distance than the U4. A travel distance of 4.0mm is considered more traditional, while 3.6mm is on the more shallow end. However, with the increasing popularity of shorter travel distances for faster response times, the 3.6mm travel distance of the U4 may be preferred by gamers or those seeking a more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt and may prefer the 4.0mm travel distance of the Matcha for a deeper and more satisfying keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The KTT Matcha tactile switch is known for its comfortable and snappy tactility when typing. This provides a satisfying and responsive typing experience. Additionally, the Matcha switch produces a distinctly clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump when typing. This provides a highly pronounced feedback with each and every keypress. Furthermore, the U4 switch offers an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, adding to the overall typing experience. In terms of sound, the Matcha switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. In comparison, the U4 switch is described as muted and low-pitched, offering a softer and quieter sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Please note that the actual sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. In terms of feel, the Matcha switch is described as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. It provides a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. The light actuation force and gentle resistance make it comfortable for extended typing sessions and suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the U4 switch is described as sharp, offering a high feedback intensity with a distinct tactile bump. Overall, the Matcha and U4 switches have their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. Choosing between them would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. However, it is worth noting that both switches are tactile and provide a satisfying typing experience, so similar results can be achieved with either option.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a lighter switch with a comfortable and snappy tactility, the KTT Matcha would be a great choice. It has a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it feel feathery and subtle to press. Additionally, you can expect a clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, the Gazzew U4 would be more suitable. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, it provides a sharp feedback intensity, allowing you to feel the tactile bump distinctly with each keystroke. The U4 also offers an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation for added comfort. In terms of sound, the Matcha has a clacky profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound. In contrast, the U4 has a muted and low-pitched sound, minimizing noise and offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for weight, tactility, and sound. Whether you prioritize a light and subtle typing experience or a medium-weight switch with sharp feedback, both the Matcha and U4 have unique qualities to enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Matcha Tactile

$5.20

$4.88 per 10

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Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more