KTT Pine vs. Gazzew U4Tx

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Pine and the Gazzew U4Tx. The KTT Pine is a linear switch that is best known for its medium-heavy build and buttery smooth typing experience. With its polished, factory-lubed finish, these switches minimize friction and offer effortless key travel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx is a tactile switch that marries the best of both worlds. It features a refined sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sound. The U4Tx provides a sharp and satisfying tactile bump with each press, ensuring a luxurious typing experience. Despite these general characteristics, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

KTT Pine Linear

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$4.60

$4.15 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Pine and the Gazzew U4Tx exhibit notable differences. The Pine utilizes polycarbonate in both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound output. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the U4Tx employs a proprietary Gazzew blend in both its top and bottom housings, often referred to as "boba plastic." This unique plastic blend offers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, providing a different auditory experience compared to the Pine.

While their housing materials differ, both the Pine and the U4Tx aim to deliver satisfying sound experiences in their own distinct ways. The Pine's polycarbonate top housing and bottom housing work together to create a cohesive sound profile. When pressing down on a key, the bottom housing's impact becomes evident, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, when releasing a key, the top housing's effects become more prominent, affecting the sound produced. Similarly, the Gazzew U4Tx's top and bottom housings share the responsibility of sound production, with the softness of the proprietary Gazzew blend contributing to a rich and deep sound quality throughout the keystroke. Both switches prioritize sound quality, but their chosen housing materials and designs result in different characteristics.

Despite their differences, the Pine and the U4Tx may offer similar results in terms of sound quality. This is because the Pine's polycarbonate top and bottom housings both contribute to a sharper and crisper sound profile. Similarly, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housings work in unison to deliver a rich and deep sound experience. While the specific qualities and nuances may vary, both switches prioritize providing satisfying and immersive auditory experiences for keyboard enthusiasts. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific sound profile that individuals seek in their typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Pine linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Pine requires 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the U4Tx has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches fall into the medium range in terms of actuation force. On the other hand, when it comes to bottom out force, the Pine requires 58 grams, which is slightly lighter than the U4Tx's 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy.

Considering weight can be important for individuals who have specific preferences. Some may prefer a lighter actuation force, like that of the Pine, as it allows for longer and more comfortable typing sessions. This is particularly beneficial for those who use their keyboards for work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards switches with a heavier actuation force, such as the U4Tx, as it provides a stronger and more satisfying push feel.

In conclusion, while the actuation forces of the KTT Pine linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch differ, both switches offer a medium actuation force. However, the Pine is slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force compared to the medium-heavy U4Tx. Ultimately, preferences for typing experiences will differ between individuals, and the choice between these switches will depend on whether they desire a lighter or heavier push feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Pine linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, we can see that they have slightly different measurements. The Pine has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered the more traditional length. On the other hand, the U4Tx has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Pine switch offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the U4Tx.

In general, a 4.0 mm travel distance provides a more standard and typical experience, while a 3.6 mm travel distance is slightly shallower. Gamers, who value fast response times, often prefer switches with shorter travel distances. In this case, the U4Tx would be a suitable choice, as its 3.6 mm travel distance offers a quicker press down. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press and a deeper feeling, the Pine switch's longer travel distance may be more satisfying.

Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on individual preference. If you prioritize a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the U4Tx is the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a longer travel distance and desire a more substantial key press, the Pine switch would be the more suitable choice. Both switches offer their own advantages, and understanding your specific needs can help determine which one will provide the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, both the KTT Pine linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch have a bassy sound profile. This means that they offer a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. However, the Pine has a low-pitched sound that is more mellow, while the U4Tx has a muted sound that is softer and quieter compared to a regular mechanical switch. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

In terms of feel, the Pine linear switch is known for its buttery and creamy typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The Pine switch is factory-lubed, reducing friction for a more comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a sharp tactile bump with high feedback intensity. With each keypress, you can distinctly feel the strong and crisp tactile bump.

In conclusion, the KTT Pine linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch has a bassy, low-pitched sound and a buttery, creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx switch has a bassy, muted sound and a sharp tactile feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a luxurious typing experience. If you prefer a deeper and richer sound with a smooth keystroke, the Pine switch would be a suitable choice. If you prefer a softer and quieter sound with a prominent tactile bump, the U4Tx switch would be a great option. It's important to consider your personal preferences and factors such as keyboard board and keycap selection to achieve the desired typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy linear switch that provides a smooth and effortless typing experience, the KTT Pine switch is an excellent choice. With its factory-lubed finish, it minimizes friction and allows for smooth key travel. The Pine switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, which can provide a deeper and richer sound during key presses. Additionally, its buttery and creamy feel ensures a seamless and uniform typing sensation.

On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a cleaner and refined sound profile, the Gazzew U4Tx switch is the way to go. This medium-heavy switch combines the deep and resonant "thock" of the U4T when bottoming out with the whisper-quiet stealth of the U4 when topping out. Each press offers a satisfying tactile bump, enhancing the typing experience. The U4Tx switch also provides a bassy sound profile but with a muted characteristic, making it softer and quieter compared to regular switches.

Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Pine and Gazzew U4Tx switches depends on your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as the desired sound and feel. Consider what type of typing experience you enjoy and whether you prioritize a smoother linear switch or a cleaner tactile switch. Both switches offer unique features and can provide a luxurious typing experience in their respective categories. In the end, it's all about finding the switch that suits your preferences and enables you to type comfortably and enjoyably.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Pine Linear

$4.60

$4.15 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more