KTT Phalaenopsis vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB each offer unique traits that cater to different typing preferences. The KTT Phalaenopsis is celebrated for its light actuation force of 37g, making it an excellent choice for those who value an effortless typing experience, especially during marathon writing sessions. Its 50g tactile force provides a satisfying and noticeable tactile bump, delivering a "thocky" feel that many users find delightful. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB stands out with its combination of a deep "thock" sound upon bottoming out and the quietness of its topping out, resulting in a refined acoustic profile. This switch offers a sharp tactile bump, appealing to those who enjoy a luxurious typing experience in a more subdued sound environment. While both keyboards are tactile and provide distinct auditory sensations, their actuation forces and sound profiles set them apart. 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 RGB 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 RGB switches reveal fundamental differences in their construction and the acoustics they produce. The Phalaenopsis utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. This material is known for its stiffness, which leads to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The clear, translucent quality of polycarbonate complements RGB lighting and enhances the visual effect, making it not only a functional choice but also an aesthetically pleasing one. By contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB features a proprietary blend referred to as "boba plastic," which is softer than polycarbonate. As a result, the U4Tx RGB produces a rich and deep sound profile, providing a more muted and mellow auditory experience compared to the punchy characteristics of the Phalaenopsis.

When analyzing the bottom housing components, a similar contrast emerges. The Phalaenopsis again employs polycarbonate, contributing to a higher-pitched and clearer bottom-out sound due to its rigidity. This choice allows for a consistent sound across both the top and bottom of the switch, potentially leading to a more harmonious auditory experience when activated. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB’s bottom housing, made from the proprietary Gazzew blend, offers a deeper sound that can soften the bottom-out impact. The combination of a softer material below and a different composition above may result in a different tactile and auditory feedback when the switch is engaged and released.

Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the KTT Phalaenopsis and Gazzew U4Tx RGB suggest that they cater to distinct preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. For those who favor a sharper, crisper sound with pronounced RGB effects, the Phalaenopsis stands out. In contrast, users who prefer a warmer, more subdued sound may gravitate toward the Gazzew U4Tx RGB. However, if one aims for similar auditory results, careful tuning of the switch and test configurations could provide a blend of the two characteristics, potentially allowing users to fine-tune their keyboard experience by mixing and matching different housing materials while focusing on sound and feel preferences.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, there are significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Phalaenopsis has a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB switch lacks a specified actuation force but features a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, suggesting it provides a more substantial feel that some typists may find desirable. This difference indicates that while the Phalaenopsis is the lighter option, the U4Tx RGB is the heavier one, offering a more resistant typing experience. Thus, users looking for a lighter switch should lean towards the Phalaenopsis, while those who prefer a stronger push should consider the U4Tx RGB.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, we see that the Phalaenopsis has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the U4Tx RGB measures 3.6 mm. This makes the U4Tx RGB the shorter option, appealing to gamers or users who favor quicker response times. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis, with its longer travel distance, caters to those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke feel. While both switches offer unique benefits based on user preferences, the choice ultimately depends on whether one values the speed of actuation or a more substantial depth during keypresses. Thus, if you're looking for responsiveness, the U4Tx RGB could be the better fit, whereas the Phalaenopsis would be ideal for a richer typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch produces a deep, resonant "thock" that is both satisfying and rich. This auditory quality can create an immersive typing experience, appealing to users who enjoy the classic mechanical keyboard sound. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB offers a more refined audio profile characterized by its muted qualities and deep bass undertones. While the U4Tx's sound is quieter and more understated compared to the Phalaenopsis, it maintains a depth that provides a luxurious typing atmosphere. This means that users looking for a loud and present typing experience may prefer the Phalaenopsis, while those who appreciate a more subdued and refined sound might lean towards the U4Tx, though both switches ultimately cater to different design preferences that can be influenced by external factors like the keyboard casing and keycap material.

In terms of feel, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch has a distinctive stepped tactile bump, providing a sensory experience where users can perceive two distinct stages of key travel. This feature allows for a mild yet noticeable tactile feedback that can help improve typing accuracy and comfort over extended use. The U4Tx RGB, on the other hand, does not have any specific descriptors regarding its tactile feedback, leaving its feel largely open to interpretation. This absence of information suggests that while it may still deliver a comfortable typing experience, it may lack the defined tactile character that the Phalaenopsis switch offers. Thus, users who prioritize a clear tactile bump in their mechanical switches may find the Phalaenopsis more appealing compared to the U4Tx.

In summary, both the KTT Phalaenopsis and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches provide unique auditory and tactile experiences tailored to different preferences. The Phalaenopsis stands out for its robust thocky sound and stepped tactile feedback, making it a great choice for those who enjoy an engaging typing experience. Meanwhile, the U4Tx offers a muted, bassy sound profile that excels in quieter environments, albeit with less defined tactile feedback. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize an engaging sound and tactile feel or a quieter, more understated typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switches should hinge on your specific typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize a lighter actuation force and a satisfying feel that minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, the Phalaenopsis is an excellent choice. Its transparent design not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also creates a rich, thocky sound that can add a pleasing auditory element to your typing experience. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more robust and refined experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the U4Tx RGB may better suit your style. The U4Tx RGB’s muted yet bassy sound, combined with its sharp tactile bump, offers a luxurious typing experience that is both quiet and richly satisfying. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what you value most—whether it's the effortless feel and thocky sound of the Phalaenopsis or the refined, deep sound of the U4Tx RGB that elevates your typing to the next level.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Phalaenopsis Tactile

$4.73

$4.15 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more