KTT Mint vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

Introducing two mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mint and the Gazzew U4, we have two distinct options to consider. The Mint is a linear switch known for its satisfyingly smooth typing experience, characterized by a poppy thockiness and a light and fleeting feel. On the other hand, the U4 is a tactile switch that offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, accompanied by an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. With a whisper-quiet sound profile, the U4 combines style with subtlety. While these general descriptions provide some insight into the switches, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best choice for your needs.

By the numbers

KTT Mint Linear

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$2.91 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The KTT Mint and Gazzew U4 differ in their choice of materials for the top housing of the switches. The Mint utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting purposes. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 features a proprietary plastic blend referred to as "boba plastic" for its top housing. This unique material produces a rich and deep sound profile as it possesses a softness that enhances the overall typing experience.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the KTT Mint employs a nylon material. Nylon is considered a classic choice as it contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a unique typing experience. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 utilizes its proprietary "boba plastic" blend for the bottom housing as well. Similar to the top housing, this material enhances the sound profile of the switch, offering a rich and deep tone due to its softness.

While the materials used for the top and bottom housings differ between the KTT Mint and Gazzew U4, both switches aim to deliver exceptional sound profiles. Although the Mint's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing create a distinct dynamic, the Gazzew U4's "boba plastic" blend for both housings ensures consistency in their rich and deep sound profile. In terms of the tactile experience, the bottom housing has a more pronounced impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing primarily influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether choosing the Mint or the U4, both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences.

Weight

The KTT Mint linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch have differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Mint has an actuation force of 45 grams, slightly higher than the U4's 43 grams. However, the Mint is lighter in terms of bottom out force with 53 grams compared to the U4's heavier 62 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mint would be a suitable choice as it requires a slightly lighter actuation force. This allows for smoother and quicker keystrokes, making it ideal for tasks that require long periods of typing. Additionally, the Mint's lower bottom out force provides a softer landing when pressing the keys fully down, reducing the strain on the fingers during extended typing sessions.

On the other hand, the U4 is better suited for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. With its heavier actuation force, the U4 provides a stronger push feel, giving a sense of reliability and satisfaction with each keystroke. The higher bottom out force adds to this robust typing experience, providing a solid and firm sensation when fully pressing the keys down.

It is worth mentioning that although the forces differ between the two switches, they both fall under the medium category. This means that while the U4 may have a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force, the overall feel and typing experience may still be quite similar to the Mint. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, whether it be a lighter and smoother feel or a heavier and more substantial touch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is evident that the Mint has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the U4 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. 4.0mm is considered a more traditional travel distance, offering a deeper key press feeling, while 3.6 mm is shallower but still provides a satisfying tactile feedback. Gamers, in particular, often prefer switches with shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the U4 a potentially more suitable choice in that regard. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Mint's longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying depth. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on individual preferences and the desired level of responsiveness or key press feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Mint linear switch is characterized as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. The low-pitched tone gives it a bass-heavy and mellow sound, while the neutral profile means it has a moderate sound level suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the U4 tactile switch is described as having a muted and low-pitched sound. The muted characteristic reduces the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, resulting in a softer and quieter sound. Like the Mint, it also has a bass-heavy and mellow tone. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Mint linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. The mild switch offers a gentle typing feel that falls in a safe and middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the polished finish of the Mint switch ensures smooth and refined key travel with reduced friction. On the other hand, the U4 tactile switch offers a sharp tactile experience. The sharp tactile bump of the U4 switch provides intense feedback that can be distinctly felt with each keypress.

Taking all the available information into consideration, the Mint linear switch stands out for its smoothness, poppy thockiness, light type feel, low-pitched sound, and polished feel. It offers a satisfying typing experience that is approachable and suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a silent switch option with a sharp tactile bump, plush bottom-out sensation, muted sound, and low-pitched tone. Both switches offer unique qualities and it ultimately comes down to personal preference when deciding between them. Those seeking a smooth linear switch experience may prefer the Mint, while those looking for a sharp and exhilarating tactile feel could opt for the U4. Additionally, it's worth noting that the U4 switch may provide similar results to the Mint in terms of low-pitched sound, although the tactile feel would be distinct.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and linear typing experience with a lighter bottom out force, the KTT Mint linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its long pole stem, you can expect a satisfyingly smooth and poppy thockiness while typing. The Mint also offers a light and fleeting type feel, making it a comfortable option for extended typing sessions.

On the other hand, if you prefer a sharper and more tactile typing experience with a slightly higher bottom out force, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch would suit you well. The U4 provides a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. Additionally, it offers an unexpectedly plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation, adding to the overall typing experience.

In terms of sound, the Mint has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, while the U4 has a muted and low-pitched sound profile. If you prefer a quieter typing experience, the U4's muted sound profile would be more appealing. However, if you enjoy a more moderate and mellow tone, the Mint's low-pitched sound profile would be a good fit.

In terms of feel, the Mint offers a mild and polished typing experience. Its mild characteristic provides a gentle and approachable feel, suitable for most users. The polished finish ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the U4 provides a sharp tactile response with its high feedback intensity. For those seeking a more pronounced tactile bump, the U4 would be an excellent choice.

Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Mint linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch boils down to personal preference. Consider factors such as typing style, preferred sound profile, and desired level of tactility to choose the switch that best suits your needs.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Mint Linear

$2.91 per 10

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Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more