KTT Matcha vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Matcha and the Gazzew U4Tx are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique and desirable characteristics. The Matcha is renowned for its comfortable and snappy tactility, allowing for a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, its long pole stem contributes to a clean bottom-out sound, further enhancing the overall typing sensation. On the other hand, the U4Tx combines the best aspects of two worlds, providing a refined sound profile that is both deep and resonant when bottoming out, yet whisper-quiet when topping out. Its sharp and satisfying tactile bump ensures a luxurious typing experience. While these general descriptions of the Matcha and the U4Tx give a glimpse into their respective qualities, it is important to delve deeper into their features to make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Gazzew U4Tx differ significantly, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Matcha utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the resonance and clarity of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the U4Tx features Gazzew's proprietary plastic blend, also known as "boba plastic," for its top housing. This unique material delivers a rich and deep sound profile, thanks to its softness. While the Matcha focuses on producing sharp and crisp sounds, the U4Tx aims for depth and richness in its sound output.
The distinction between these switches' housing materials extends to their bottom housings as well. The Matcha incorporates polycarbonate for its bottom housing, contributing to a sharper and clearer bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the U4Tx utilizes Gazzew's proprietary plastic blend for its bottom housing, resulting in a softer and more cushioned bottom-out experience. This difference influences the tactile feedback and sensation when typing on each switch, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
While the top and bottom housings of the Matcha and U4Tx differ, their respective materials play a significant role in the resulting sound profiles. Despite the variation, both switches prioritize delivering an enhanced sound experience. The Matcha achieves this with its polycarbonate top and bottom housings, creating a sharper and more resonant sound profile throughout typing. In comparison, the U4Tx utilizes Gazzew's proprietary blend for both the top and bottom housings, aiming to produce a rich and deep sound that resonates with enthusiasts seeking a specific acoustic experience. Ultimately, whether through polycarbonate or Gazzew's blend, both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that cater to different user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there are notable differences in their weights. The Matcha switch has a relatively light actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with a gentle push. Additionally, it has a bottom out force of 45 grams, indicating a lightweight switch that doesn't require much force for a full depress.
On the other hand, the U4Tx switch's actuation force is unknown, so we can't directly compare it to the Matcha switch. However, its bottom out force is 65 grams, suggesting a medium-heavy switch that requires a bit more pressure to fully depress the keys.
Considering the weight factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience would likely opt for the Matcha switch, as it allows for extended typing or gaming sessions without causing excessive fatigue. Its light actuation force also enables users to type with less effort. On the contrary, the U4Tx switch would be preferred by individuals who enjoy a stronger push while typing, as the heavier bottom out force provides a more substantial and satisfying typing experience.
In summary, the Matcha tactile switch offers a lighter actuation force and bottom out force, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch falls into the medium-heavy category. Depending on individual preferences, one can choose between the two switches to achieve either a lighter or a heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Matcha tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Matcha has a longer travel distance compared to the U4Tx. The Matcha falls into the category of a more traditional travel distance at 4.0mm, while the U4Tx is slightly shorter at 3.6mm. However, it is important to note that both switches fall within the range of a moderate travel distance. Consequently, if you are looking for a standard travel distance, both options would provide similar results. However, if you prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the U4Tx would be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial key press, the Matcha, with its longer travel distance, would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing or gaming style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
The Gazzew U4Tx 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Matcha switch is known for its clean bottom-out sound, resulting in a crisp, bright, and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switch offers a deeper and richer sound profile with a lower frequency range. It produces a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out, coupled with a whisper-quiet topping-out sound. The U4Tx switch is also described as muted, meaning it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, minimizing noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Matcha switch provides a comfortable and snappy tactility. It falls under the category of an accented switch, offering a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. It also has a stepped feel, meaning it has two stages in its keystroke with some pre-travel and post-travel. With its snappy and accented characteristics, the Matcha switch offers a responsive typing experience.
On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switch is described as sharp tactile switch, known for its high feedback intensity. Each keypress provides a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt. While further specifics about the U4Tx switch's feel aren't mentioned, based on its sharp tactile nature, it offers a tactile experience with a prominent bump.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha switch offers a clacky sound with a clean bottom-out sound and provides a comfortable and snappy typing feel with accented and stepped characteristics. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switch produces a bassy sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out, coupled with a muted topping-out sound. The U4Tx switch provides a sharp tactile feedback that is intense and prominent. While each switch has its own unique qualities, if you prefer a clacky sound and a comfortable, snappy feel, the Matcha switch is an excellent choice. If you prefer a bassy sound profile, coupled with a sharp and crisp tactile feedback, the U4Tx switch is a great option to consider. Keep in mind that the overall typing experience may vary depending on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a light and snappy tactile switch with a clean bottom-out sound, the KTT Matcha would be the perfect choice for you. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, it provides a comfortable typing experience that is especially suitable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, if you prefer a clacky sound with a crisp and percussive quality, the Matcha switch will deliver.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a refined sound profile and a deeper, bassy sound during key presses, the Gazzew U4Tx switch would be the ideal option. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, it offers a medium-heavy feel that provides a satisfying tactile bump with each keystroke. The U4Tx switch also boasts a whisper-quiet topping out sound, further enhancing the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, your decision between the KTT Matcha and Gazzew U4Tx switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel. Consider whether you prefer a lighter and snappier switch with a clean bottom-out sound (Matcha) or a switch with a refined sound profile and a deeper, bassy tone (U4Tx). By taking these factors into account, you can choose the switch that will provide the most luxurious and acoustically pleasing typing experience for you.
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