KTT Orange vs. Gazzew U4Tx

Overview

The KTT Orange and Gazzew U4Tx are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinctive typing experiences. The KTT Orange switches are known for their bouncy feel and low-pitched sound profile. With a polycarbonate milky top housing, POM stem, and orange nylon bottom housing, these switches provide a slick and frictionless typing experience. The excellent factory-lubing ensures refined and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches combine the best of both worlds with a refined sound profile. The U4Tx switches offer a deep and resonant "thock" when bottoming out, accompanied by a whisper-quiet topping out sound. Each press on the U4Tx provides a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, resulting in a luxurious typing experience. While the KTT Orange offers a bouncy and frictionless experience, the Gazzew U4Tx provides a bassy and muted yet sharp tactile sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Orange Linear

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Orange and the Gazzew U4Tx differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Orange utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which lends itself to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to its relatively stiffer nature, the polycarbonate creates a clearer and more resonant sound, making it particularly suitable for switches that utilize RGB lighting. In contrast, the U4Tx 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, thanks to its softness.

While the Orange and U4Tx have distinct housing materials, their respective top and bottom housings contribute differently to the overall sound and feel of the switch. When interacting with the Orange switch, the qualities of the polycarbonate bottom housing are predominant, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing of the Orange switch has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This division allows for a nuanced sound experience depending on the specific action performed.

In terms of similarities, both the Orange and U4Tx housing materials are designed to enhance the sound quality of the switches. While the materials differ, they are each carefully selected to produce specific sonic characteristics. Both the polycarbonate and the Gazzew blend aim to deliver a satisfying sound profile, albeit with distinct qualities. Regardless of the housing material chosen, users can expect an enhanced auditory experience when typing on either the KTT Orange or the Gazzew U4Tx.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Orange switch has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the U4Tx switch's actuation force is unavailable, but its bottom out force is 65 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category.

Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as it can greatly impact one's typing experience. Some individuals prefer a lighter switch, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This is especially beneficial for those who use their keyboards for work or engage in prolonged gaming sessions. In contrast, there are individuals who prefer a stronger push feel, as it provides a more substantial typing experience. For them, selecting switches with heavier forces is ideal.

In the case of the KTT Orange linear switch, its medium-light actuation force and bottom out force provide a balanced feel. The actuation force determines the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force needed to press the key all the way down. This combination offers a comfortable typing experience for those who don't require a particularly heavy or light feel.

On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch's actuation force is unspecified, but its bottom out force of 65 grams is considered medium-heavy. This indicates that the switch requires a relatively stronger push to trigger a keystroke and fully depress the key. For individuals who prefer a more substantial and pronounced typing experience, the U4Tx switch may be the preferable choice.

In summary, while the KTT Orange linear switch offers a medium-light actuation force and bottom out force, providing a balanced and comfortable typing experience, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch leans towards the medium-heavy side, offering a stronger push and more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the individual's preference for lighter or heavier switches.

Travel distance

The KTT Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Orange switch is slightly shorter than the U4Tx switch. For those who prefer a shorter travel distance, the Orange switch would be the ideal choice as it provides a faster response time, which is favored by gamers. On the other hand, the U4Tx switch with a longer travel distance may be preferable for individuals who prefer a deeper key press sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Orange switches have a low-pitched profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches provide a refined sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sound. This combination results in a pleasing acoustical experience that is as satisfying as it is quiet. Note, however, that the sound produced by the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the KTT Orange switches are described as bouncy and frictionless. This means that typing on these switches will provide a spring-like feedback and a lively feel, with a rebound effect when keys are pressed. Additionally, the Orange switches offer a smooth and effortless typing experience due to their frictionless nature. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches are characterized by a sharp tactile bump. These switches provide a high feedback intensity, allowing users to distinctly feel the tactile bump with each keystroke.

In conclusion, the KTT Orange switches offer a low-pitched sound profile, bouncy feel, and frictionless typing experience. They are known for their excellent factory-lubing, which enhances the smoothness of key travel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches provide a refined sound profile with a deep and resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a quiet topping out sound. They offer a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, ensuring a luxurious typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a low-pitched, bouncy, and frictionless experience, the KTT Orange switches will suit you well. If you prefer a refined sound with a sharp tactile bump, the Gazzew U4Tx switches will provide an exceptional typing experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a bouncy and frictionless feel, the KTT Orange linear switch is the way to go. With its 53g bottom out force, the Orange switch offers a smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The bouncy feel and spring-like feedback provide a lively sensation, giving you rebound when pressed. Additionally, the low-pitched sound profile of the Orange switch creates a bass-heavy and mellow tone, enhancing your typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a sharp tactile bump, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is the better choice. With its 65g bottom out force, the U4Tx switch provides a high feedback intensity, allowing you to distinctly feel the strong and crisp tactile bump with each and every keypress. In terms of sound, the U4Tx offers a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Furthermore, the U4Tx switch produces a softer and quieter sound, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.

Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Orange linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch boils down to your personal preferences. Consider factors such as bottom out force, feel, and sound to determine which switch aligns with your typing style and desired typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Orange Linear

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more