TTC Silent Red vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one for your needs can greatly enhance your typing experience. Two popular options to consider are the TTC Silent Red, a linear switch, and the Gazzew U4, a tactile switch. If you're looking for a switch that delivers a smooth and seamless typing experience without all the noise, the Silent Reds are the perfect choice. With a muted sound profile, these switches are perfect for office or shared living space use. The switch has a smooth, consistent feel from top to bottom, and there's a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfiness. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile typing experience, the Gazzew U4 switches are a great option. When typing on them, you'll experience a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, coupled with an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. Despite their tactile nature, the U4 switches have a whisper-quiet sound profile, making them suitable for quieter environments. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Silent Red Linear

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the TTC Silent Red and the Gazzew U4 differ significantly in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Silent Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. In contrast, the U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. While both materials contribute to unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the Silent Red creates a more resonant and clear sound, while the Gazzew blend produces a deeper and fuller sound.

When it comes to the bottom housing, the Silent Red incorporates a nylon material, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the U4 utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, which also delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. Both nylon and the Gazzew blend contribute to enhanced sound profiles, making typing on switches featuring these materials a more immersive and satisfying experience.

While the top and bottom housings of these switches differ, it is worth noting that the nature of each housing material remains consistent. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, allowing both the Silent Red and the U4 switches to deliver a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing primarily affects the sound when releasing a key. In terms of similarities, both the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Red and the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4 contribute to creating unique sound profiles that enhance the overall typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have similar actuation and bottom out forces. The TTC Silent Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Gazzew U4 has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches fall into the medium force category, providing a balance between ease of typing and a satisfying typing experience. Therefore, individuals looking for a lighter switch that allows for extended typing sessions may find both switches suitable. Similarly, those who prefer a stronger push feel may also appreciate the moderate forces of both switches. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of the TTC Silent Red and Gazzew U4 switches offer similar results, catering to a variety of typing preferences.

Travel distance

The TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch have a slight difference in terms of travel distance. The Silent Red has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the U4 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm.

In general, a switch's travel distance can greatly impact the overall typing or gaming experience. Traditional travel distance is typically around 4.0 mm, while shallower distances of around 3.0 mm have become more common. However, the trend towards shorter travel distances has also gained popularity, especially among gamers who value faster response times. In this case, the slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm offered by the Gazzew U4 tactile switch may be more appealing.

On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt or lacking in depth. For those who prefer a more substantial key press, the TTC Silent Red linear switch with its slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm may be the better choice.

Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize quick response times and a lighter touch, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch with its slightly shorter travel distance may be more suitable. Alternatively, if you prefer a more solid and deliberate key press, the TTC Silent Red linear switch with its slightly longer travel distance may provide a better typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, both the TTC Silent Red and Gazzew U4 switches are described as muted, meaning they produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. This makes them both suitable choices for office or shared living spaces where noise can be a concern. The U4, however, is also described as having a low-pitched sound profile, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to the Silent Red. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Silent Red switch is described as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, it is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that most people would find approachable due to its middle-ground qualities. The Silent Red switch is also polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish resulting in sleek key travel and reduced friction. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switch is described as sharp, indicating a high feedback intensity with a prominent and distinct tactile bump felt with each keypress.

In conclusion, both the TTC Silent Red and Gazzew U4 switches offer a muted sound profile, making them suitable for quieter environments. While the Silent Red switch provides a buttery and mild typing experience with a polished finish, the U4 switch offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump along with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. The choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference for sound and feel. It's worth mentioning that although they have different qualities, both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, if you're looking for a switch that delivers a smooth and seamless typing experience without all the noise, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is the perfect choice. With its muted sound profile and padded bottom-out feel, it is ideal for office or shared living space use. The Silent Red has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a comfortable and consistent feel from top to bottom. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is the way to go. It offers an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation and a whisper-quiet sound profile. With a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, the U4 strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of typing. Ultimately, the decision between the TTC Silent Red and the Gazzew U4 boils down to personal preference for either a smooth and comfortable typing experience or a sharp and tactile one.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Silent Red Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more