TTC Silent Red vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, each option caters to distinct preferences and needs, and two notable choices are the TTC Silent Red and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB. The Silent Red is a linear switch celebrated for its smooth and consistent feel, making it an excellent option for users seeking a quiet typing experience—ideal for office settings or shared spaces. Its muted sound profile ensures that your keystrokes won’t disrupt others, while the padded bottom-out feel adds an extra layer of comfort during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB distinguishes itself as a tactile switch that combines the satisfying "thock" sound upon bottoming out with a discreet "stealth" when releasing. This unique feature provides an engaging tactile experience, perfect for users who enjoy the feedback of a tactile bump without excessive noise. Ultimately, while the Silent Red caters to those prioritizing silence and comfort, the U4Tx RGB appeals to those seeking tactile feedback with an elegant sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your unique typing preferences.

By the numbers

TTC Silent Red Linear

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Silent Red and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, significant differences emerge in their composition and resultant sound profiles. The Silent Red features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer properties, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This material's translucency also makes it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal when illuminated. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend, often referred to as "boba plastic," for its top housing. This softer material results in a generally deeper and richer sound profile, providing a distinctive auditory experience that contrasts with the sharper notes produced by polycarbonate.

Both switches employ unique materials for their bottom housings, contributing to their overall sound and feel during typing. The Silent Red's nylon bottom housing is renowned for its softer characteristics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This allows the switch to absorb more sound, which gives it a duller and rounder tonal quality. Similarly, the U4Tx RGB utilizes the same proprietary Gazzew blend known from its top housing for the bottom housing as well. The softness of this material also contributes to a rich sound profile, much like that of the nylon used in the Silent Red. Despite the different materials in the upper portions of the two switches, both bottom housings provide a grounding effect that affects the bottom-out sound and feel, promoting a sense of continuity in their performance.

In essence, while the TTC Silent Red and Gazzew U4Tx RGB differ significantly in their top housing materials, the sonic impact is balanced through their bottom housings. The polycarbonate top of the Silent Red and the Gazzew blend top of the U4Tx RGB create contrasting upper sound notes, with each switch's softer bottom housing providing a consistently rich and deep sound profile. Consequently, even with varying top materials, users can expect a satisfying and distinct auditory experience when actuating either switch. The design of the two switches highlights the importance of material composition in achieving desired sound characteristics, demonstrating how the interplay of different plastics can yield various auditory results in keyboard switches.

Weight

The TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch offer a comparable typing experience, though they differ in their actuation forces. The Silent Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the U4Tx RGB does not specify an actuation force, making direct comparison difficult for that aspect. However, both switches have a bottom out force that is fairly close, with the Silent Red at 63.5 grams and the U4Tx RGB at 65 grams, indicating that both switches provide a medium-heavy resistance when fully pressed down. In terms of weight, the TTC Silent Red is lighter compared to the U4Tx RGB, which is slightly heavier, essential for users who prefer a less taxing typing experience, especially during extended sessions. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial feel might gravitate towards the Gazzew U4Tx RGB for its heavier bottom out force. Overall, while they share some characteristics, the Silent Red’s lighter actuation force can make it more comfortable for prolonged use.

Travel distance

The TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you're looking for a switch that provides a more pronounced key press and a little extra depth, the Silent Red is the better option, as it offers a longer travel distance. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB, being the shorter of the two, may appeal to gamers or users who prioritize faster response times and quicker actuation. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which have become increasingly favored in recent years, but the Silent Red still retains a slight edge in depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TTC Silent Red switches excel with their muted sound profile, making them ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. These switches effectively reduce the clatter typically produced by mechanical keyboards, ensuring a softer and quieter typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches provide a refined auditory experience, characterized by a deep "thock" upon bottoming out, complemented by a quieter sound when topping out. This duality allows the U4Tx RGB to maintain a satisfying yet subdued sound, aligning well with users who enjoy a tactile bump without excess noise.

In terms of feel, the TTC Silent Red switches are celebrated for their buttery and polished characteristics, offering a smooth and seamless keystroke experience from top to bottom. This results in minimal friction and an overall gentle typing sensation, making these switches approachable and comfortable for a wide range of users. The U4Tx RGB switches, while not specifically described in terms of feel, are known for their sharp tactile bump, which enhances the typing experience by providing clear feedback without being harsh. This tactile response could potentially cater to users who crave a more engaging interface that still retains a degree of smoothness.

Both switches cater to distinct preferences in terms of auditory and tactile experiences. Those seeking a quiet and smooth typing experience might lean towards the TTC Silent Red, while users who appreciate a tactile bump and refined sound may find the Gazzew U4Tx RGB appealing. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize noise reduction and smoothness or tactile feedback and the auditory thrill of a more pronounced sound profile. Each switch provides an excellent but different experience, ensuring satisfaction based on your specific needs and preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the TTC Silent Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately hinges on your specific needs and typing preferences. If you prioritize a quiet and smooth typing experience—especially in shared spaces—then the Silent Red is your best bet. Its muted sound profile and buttery feel provide a seamless typing experience that minimizes distractions for you and those around you. This switch excels in environments where noise is a consideration, offering a comfort-oriented design that reduces the clack typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, if you desire a more tactile feedback with a satisfying 'thock' sound, the U4Tx RGB may be what you’re looking for. It combines a pronounced tactile bump with a refined sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy the sensation of hitting the switch while still keeping noise levels in check. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer a smooth and quiet experience with the Silent Red or a tactile and rich auditory response with the U4Tx RGB.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Silent Red Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more