TTC Speed Silver vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the TTC Speed Silver and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Speed Silver and the Gazzew U4 are two popular mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics. The Speed Silver is a linear switch that offers a fast and precise typing experience. With a light-medium level of resistance and a reduced travel distance, these switches allow for quick and effortless actuation. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 is a tactile switch that provides a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump when typing. It offers a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation and has a whisper quiet sound profile. Both switches have their own unique qualities, catering to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Speed Silver and the Gazzew U4 differ in composition and their resulting sound profiles. The Speed Silver's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which imparts a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for optimal RGB lighting if desired. In contrast, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often called "boba plastic," produces a rich and deep sound profile. The softness of this blend adds to the depth of the sound, resulting in a more encompassing auditory experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Speed Silver utilizes a classic material - nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottoms elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon's relative softness absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Gazzew U4's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing contributes to its rich and deep sound profile. The softness of the material allows for a more pronounced and immersive typing experience.
While the top and bottom housings differ between the TTC Speed Silver and the Gazzew U4, their respective qualities still impact the overall switch experience. Pressing down on the Speed Silver will emphasize the qualities of its nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing of the switch influences the sound when releasing a key, with the polycarbonate providing a sharper and crisper sound. Similarly, the U4's soft Gazzew blend bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing adds to the richness and depth of the overall sound. Although the materials may vary, both switches deliver a unique and immersive typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Speed Silver has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the U4's 43 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Speed Silver requires 55 grams of force, whereas the U4 requires a slightly higher 62 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Speed Silver with its lower actuation force would be a suitable choice. The lighter actuation force allows for faster and more effortless typing, making it ideal for longer periods of use, such as in a professional setting or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the U4 with its slightly heavier bottom out force provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
While the Speed Silver has a lighter actuation force than the U4, both switches fall into the medium-light category. Therefore, if the weight is a key consideration, both switches would provide similar results. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and whether one prefers a slightly lighter actuation force or a slightly heavier bottom out force for their typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Speed Silver switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become increasingly popular in recent times. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances as they allow for quicker response times. If you prioritize a highly responsive typing or gaming experience, the TTC Speed Silver switch would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper and more substantial keypress might find the slightly longer travel distance of the Gazzew U4 switch to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference regarding the desired level of keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
The Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Speed Silver switch is known for its neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound level that is suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, and whether you plan to use the switch at home or in a work environment. On the other hand, the U4 switch offers a muted sound, which means it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. Additionally, the U4 switch has a low-pitched sound profile, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Speed Silver switch provides a mild typing experience. This means that it offers a more gentle and approachable typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The switch falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of its sound and feel. Additionally, the Speed Silver switch is described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, which can enhance the overall feel of typing.
In contrast, the U4 switch offers a sharp tactile feel. It is known for its high feedback intensity, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. The U4 switch also provides an unexpectedly plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation, further enhancing the tactile experience.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Speed Silver switch and the Gazzew U4 switch offer different subjective qualities. The Speed Silver switch provides a faster and precise typing experience with a mild and polished feel, while the U4 switch offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation. Regarding sound, the Speed Silver switch has a neutral sound profile, whereas the U4 switch has a muted and low-pitched sound profile. It is worth mentioning that individual preferences can vary, and it is recommended to consider personal typing preferences, along with other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, when deciding between these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a fast and precise typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch would be the perfect choice for you. These switches have a reduced travel distance, allowing for quick and effortless actuation. In terms of sound, the Speed Silver is described as neutral, making it suitable for various settings and purposes. The feel of these switches is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle and smooth typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with an unexpectedly plush bottom-out sensation, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is the way to go. These switches provide a satisfying tactile feedback with each keypress. The U4 has a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, and offers a low-pitched tone for a more bass-heavy and mellow sound.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Speed Silver and the Gazzew U4 comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize speed and precision, along with a neutral sound profile and a mild and polished feel, the Speed Silver is the switch for you. However, if you crave a sharp tactile bump, a muted and low-pitched sound, and a plush bottom-out sensation, the U4 is the perfect fit. Consider your typing style, preferences, and environment to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. In the end, both switches offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences, allowing you to find the perfect match for your needs.
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