KTT Peach vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the KTT Peach, a linear switch, and the Gazzew U4, a tactile switch. The Peach switches are highly regarded for their smooth typing experience and deep, thocky sound profile. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and mild, they provide a satisfying and consistent typing sensation. On the other hand, the U4 switches offer a more pronounced tactile bump, giving each keystroke a sharp and exhilarating feel. Additionally, they have a unique felt-like bottom-out sensation, providing a plush typing experience. The U4 switches are known for their muted, low-pitched sound profile, making them whisper quiet. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing preferences.

By the numbers

KTT Peach Linear

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$2.91 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

Comparing the housing materials of the KTT Peach and the Gazzew U4, we can see some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize unique proprietary plastic blends for their top housing, which contribute to the sound profile. The Peach's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffness, while the U4's Gazzew blend top housing provides a rich and deep sound profile owing to its softness. Although they have different characteristics, both materials play a crucial role in determining the sound when releasing a key. The Peach's polycarbonate housing is also especially useful for RGB lighting due to its translucency, which is not applicable to the U4 switch.

When it comes to the bottom housing, the Peach incorporates nylon, a classic switch housing material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder tone. Similarly, the U4 switch employs the same proprietary Gazzew blend for its bottom housing, delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to softness. This means that both switches share a common quality in terms of their bottom-out sound and feel, as the bottom housing exerts a significant influence in this aspect.

Although each switch has its own distinctive housing materials, it is important to note that their respective top and bottom housings contribute differently to the overall sound profile. Pressing down on the switch will make you feel the qualities of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the characteristics of the top housing, such as the stiffness of polycarbonate in the Peach switch or the softness of the Gazzew blend in the U4, primarily shape the sound produced. Thus, while they have different housing materials, both switches generate distinct sounds depending on the stage of keypress.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Peach linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Peach switch is slightly heavier at 45 grams compared to the U4 switch's 43 grams, making it a bit more resistant to triggering a keystroke. However, both switches fall into the medium-light range. In terms of bottom out force, the Peach switch requires 53 grams to fully press down, while the U4 switch is slightly heavier at 62 grams, placing it in the medium range.

Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the Peach switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without excessive strain. This would be ideal for keyboards used at work or during lengthy gaming sessions. In contrast, individuals seeking a more substantial and forceful typing experience may gravitate towards the U4 switch, as its heavier bottom out force provides a stronger push feel.

These differences in actuation and bottom out forces highlight the contrasting typing experiences one can expect from the KTT Peach linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch. However, it is worth noting that while the U4 switch may offer a slightly heavier typing experience, both switches fall within the medium or medium-light range, ensuring that they deliver comparable results in terms of key activation.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Peach linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is clear that the Peach has a slightly longer distance at 4.0mm compared to the U4's 3.6mm. 4.0mm is the more traditional travel distance, providing a familiar feel for typists. On the other hand, the U4 offers a slightly shallower travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers seeking quicker response times. The shorter travel distance of 3.6mm can enhance responsiveness during intense gaming sessions. However, it is essential to consider personal preferences as some individuals may find shorter travel distances too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences; those who value a hearty depth may lean towards the Peach, while those prioritizing a quicker response may opt for the U4. Regardless, both switches offer similar experiences due to their relatively close travel distances.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Peach linear switch is best known for its syrupy smooth typing experience and deep, thocky sound profile. It is described as having a low-pitched sound, which means it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The Peach switch also has a mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in the safe, middle-ground zone.

On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is best known for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump. Typing on these switches provides a distinct and intense feedback with each keypress. The U4 switch also offers an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. It has a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches.

In summary, the Peach linear switch is characterized by its smooth typing experience, deep sound profile, mild feel, and low-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch provides a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, a plush bottom-out sensation, muted sound, and a low-pitched tone. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a smoother and deeper sound with a mild feel, the Peach switch is a great choice. If you prefer a more intense tactile feedback with a muted sound, the U4 switch would be a good fit. However, it's important to note that the sound of the switches may also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth typing experience, the KTT Peach switch would be a great choice. It offers a deep and thocky sound profile, making your typing sessions enjoyable. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force, the Gazzew U4 switch is the way to go. Its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump provides a satisfying feedback while typing. Additionally, the U4 switch offers a plush and felt-like bottom-out experience. In terms of sound, the Peach switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, while the U4 switch produces a muted and low-pitched tone, minimizing the noise commonly associated with mechanical keyboards. When it comes to feel, the Peach switch offers a mild and approachable typing experience, while the U4 switch provides a sharp and distinct tactile feedback with each keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Peach and Gazzew U4 switches depends on your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as the desired sound and feel during typing.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Peach Linear

$2.91 per 10

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Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

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