KTT Phalaenopsis vs. Gazzew U4Tx

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two top contenders in the tactile switch category are the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Gazzew U4Tx. The Phalaenopsis switches are renowned for their beautiful translucent appearance and light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue even during long typing sessions. With a satisfying tactile bump of 50g, every keystroke becomes a delightful experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx switches marry the best of both worlds by offering a refined sound profile. Typing on them provides a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out, combined with the whisper-quiet stealth when topping out. With a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, the U4Tx switches ensure a luxurious typing experience that is as acoustically pleasing as it is tactile. 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 Phalaenopsis Tactile

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$4.73

$4.15 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Gazzew U4Tx differ in their composition and the resulting sound profiles they produce. The Phalaenopsis utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the U4Tx features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often called "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. The softness of this material imparts a distinct warmth to the sound, resulting in a more rounded and robust experience.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Phalaenopsis boasts a polycarbonate composition, similar to its top housing. This ensures consistency in sound profile throughout the switch. As mentioned earlier, the stiffness of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound when bottoming out a key. In contrast, the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing. This blend, referred to as "boba plastic," imparts a unique softness that directly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The softness of the material provides a more cushioned experience, absorbing the impact when pressing down on a key and producing a distinct sound that is rich and deep.

While the housing materials of the Phalaenopsis and the U4Tx differ, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to specific preferences. The polycarbonate used in the Phalaenopsis provides a sharper and crisper sound, while the proprietary Gazzew blend used in the U4Tx delivers a rich and deep sound. Despite their differences, both materials excel in providing a satisfying typing experience. The clear housing options of both switches allow for the integration of RGB lighting, enhancing the visual aesthetics of the keyboard. Therefore, whether you prefer the clarity and resonance of polycarbonate or the softness and richness of the Gazzew blend, both switches offer distinct qualities that are sure to elevate your typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Phalaenopsis has an actuation force of 37 grams, while the U4Tx's actuation force is unspecified. In terms of bottom out force, the Phalaenopsis requires 50 grams, while the U4Tx has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Phalaenopsis provides a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the U4Tx offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, which may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel. Although the exact actuation force for the U4Tx is unknown, it can be assumed that the difference in bottom out force suggests that it is relatively heavier compared to the Phalaenopsis.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is clear that there is a difference in length. The Phalaenopsis has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the U4Tx has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Phalaenopsis offers a deeper press and a more pronounced tactile response compared to the U4Tx. The 4.0mm travel distance is considered to be the more traditional option, providing a satisfying depth for those who prefer a more substantial keystroke experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx, with its 3.6mm travel distance, offers a slightly shallower press, which can be favored by gamers seeking quicker response times. It is important to note that both switches provide a tactile feel, but the U4Tx offers a slightly smaller distance to travel, resulting in a potentially faster and more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and individual typing style.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is best known for its effortless typing experience and minimized finger fatigue. With a light actuation force of 37g, typing on these switches is smooth and easy, even during long typing sessions. The 50g tactile force provides a satisfying and discernible tactile bump, ensuring that every keystroke is a delightful experience. In terms of sound, the Phalaenopsis switch is described as having a bassy and thocky sound profile. The deep and rich sound of the switch resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones, creating a satisfying "thud" or "knock" sound when pressed and released. The feel of the Phalaenopsis switch is described as stepped, providing a mild tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation.

On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch combines the best of both worlds. These switches are designed for a cleaner and refined sound profile. When typing on them, you can expect a deep, resonant "thock" sound when bottoming out, similar to the sound of a thud or knock. The U4Tx switch also offers a whisper-quiet stealth sound when topping out, ensuring a quiet typing experience. The tactile bump of the U4Tx switch is sharp and satisfying, providing a high feedback intensity with each keypress.

Taking all the available information into consideration, the Phalaenopsis and U4Tx switches offer different subjective qualities. The Phalaenopsis switch provides an effortless typing experience, minimal finger fatigue, and a satisfying tactile bump with a bassy and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, the U4Tx switch offers a refined sound profile with a deep "thock" sound when bottoming out and a quiet sound when topping out. The U4Tx switch also delivers a sharp tactile bump. If you prefer a deeper and richer sound with a milder tactile feel, the Phalaenopsis switch might be more suitable for you. If you prefer a cleaner, refined sound with a sharper tactile feel, the U4Tx switch would be a great choice. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, and your choice may also depend on other factors such as your keyboard and keycaps.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a lighter bottom out force and a delightful typing experience, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switches would be a great choice for you. These switches feature a bottom out force of 50 grams, making them light and effortless to type on. With a satisfying tactile bump and minimal finger fatigue, the Phalaenopsis switches ensure a pleasant typing session even during prolonged use. In terms of sound, they offer a deep and rich "thocky" profile, resembling a soft and satisfying "thud" when pressed. As for feel, the Phalaenopsis switches provide a stepped experience, meaning they have a mild and subtle tactile response.

On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a luxurious typing experience with a refined sound profile, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switches would suit you well. These switches have a bottom out force of 65 grams, offering a medium-heavy feel. The U4Tx switches produce a deep and resonant "thock" sound when bottoming out, coupled with a quiet and muted sound when topping out, making them acoustically pleasing. With a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, these switches ensure a premium typing experience. The U4Tx switches also provide a high feedback intensity, allowing you to distinctly feel the tactile bump with each keypress.

In conclusion, the KTT Phalaenopsis switches are ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch, a delightful typing experience, and a "thocky" sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches are perfect for individuals who prefer a slightly heavier feel, a luxurious typing experience, and a refined, muted sound profile. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches comes down to your personal preference in terms of weight, typing experience, sound, and feel.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Phalaenopsis Tactile

$4.73

$4.15 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more