TTC Speed Silver vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the TTC Speed Silver and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are many options to choose from that cater to different preferences and typing styles. Two popular choices are the TTC Speed Silver and the Gazzew U4Tx switches. The Speed Silver is best known for its fast and precise typing experience, making it ideal for those who value speed and accuracy. With a light-medium level of resistance and a reduced travel distance, these linear switches allow for quick and effortless actuation. Additionally, they have a pristine sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer a different experience, marrying the best of both worlds. With a refined sound profile that combines the deep "thock" of the U4T when bottoming out and the whisper-quiet stealth of the U4 when topping out, typing on these tactile switches is a luxurious and acoustically pleasing experience. Each press provides a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, enhancing the overall typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
Partial box
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Speed Silver and the Gazzew U4Tx differ in their composition and their impact on sound profiles. The Speed Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. In contrast, the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic," to deliver a rich and deep sound profile. While the Speed Silver's polycarbonate housing lends itself well to RGB lighting due to its translucency, the U4Tx's top housing is known for its softness, allowing for a more mellow sound experience.
In terms of bottom housing, the Speed Silver incorporates nylon, a classic switch housing material. Nylon produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softness that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the U4Tx makes use of its own Gazzew blend bottom housing, which also capitalizes on its softness to deliver a rich and deep sound. This "boba plastic" bottom housing contributes to the switch's overall sound and feel upon bottoming out a key.
Although the TTC Speed Silver and the Gazzew U4Tx employ different housing materials, both switches aim to provide an enhanced auditory experience. While the Speed Silver's polycarbonate top housing offers a clearer and more resonant sound, the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing produces a deeper and richer sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Speed Silver and the "boba plastic" blend bottom housing of the U4Tx both contribute to a fuller sound profile, albeit with slight variations. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality from both switches, albeit with nuanced differences that cater to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offer different options for keyboard enthusiasts. The Speed Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which falls into the medium-light category. In contrast, the U4Tx's actuation force is currently unavailable, making it difficult to determine its exact characteristics. However, its bottom out force is 65 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows for longer typing sessions, which is beneficial for work-related or extended gaming activities. In this aspect, the Speed Silver would be the lighter option. On the other hand, there are those who crave a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. For these individuals, heavier forces are preferable. In this case, the U4Tx with its medium-heavy bottom out force would be a suitable choice.
It is important to note that without the specific information on the actuation force of the U4Tx, it is difficult to compare it directly with the Speed Silver. However, if the actuation force of the U4Tx is similar to the Speed Silver, the overall typing experience would likely yield similar results. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience one is seeking to achieve.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is 3.4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of the traditional range, both switches fall within the shorter travel distance category. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances for quicker response times. Therefore, if you prioritize a highly responsive typing or gaming experience, the TTC Speed Silver with its shorter travel distance would be the more suitable choice. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt or lacking in depth. For those who prefer a more substantial keystroke experience, the Gazzew U4Tx with its slightly longer travel distance would provide a more satisfying tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 U4Tx 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 TTC Speed Silver is known for its neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a moderate sound that is suitable for most users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists, and can be used in various settings such as at home or at work. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx offers a different sound experience. These switches have a bassy sound profile, which means that they produce a deeper and richer sound during key presses. Additionally, the U4Tx switches are also described as muted, meaning that they produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches. It is important to note that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board used and the keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the TTC Speed Silver switches provide a mild typing experience. This means that they offer a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of these switches fall within a safe middle-ground zone that is approachable to most users. The Speed Silver switches are also described as polished, which means that they have a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience. This smoothness is achieved through the use of quality materials and possibly factory lubrication, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer a sharp tactile feel. These switches are known for their high feedback intensity, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress.
In conclusion, the TTC Speed Silver and Gazzew U4Tx switches offer distinct sound and feel experiences. The Speed Silver switches are characterized by a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel. On the other hand, the U4Tx switches offer a bassy and muted sound profile, coupled with a sharp and intense tactile feel. Depending on your preferences, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. If you prefer a fast and precise typing experience with a moderate sound and gentle feel, the Speed Silver switches would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a cleaner sound profile with deeper tones and a sharp tactile feel, the U4Tx switches would be a great option. Regardless of your choice, the overall sound and feel can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it's important to consider your preferences for typing experience. The Speed Silver is ideal for those who prioritize speed and precision in their typing. With a light-medium level of resistance and reduced travel distance, these switches enable quick and effortless actuation. They also offer a pristine sound profile that is neutral and suitable for a variety of environments.
On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches offer a luxurious typing experience with a sharp and satisfying tactile bump. These switches marry the best of both worlds, providing a deep and resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet stealth when topping out. They have a bassy sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range, and are muted to minimize noise.
When it comes to feel, the Speed Silver switches provide a mild and polished experience. They offer a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the U4Tx switches have a sharp tactile bump that is felt distinctly with each keypress, providing high feedback intensity.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Speed Silver and Gazzew U4Tx switches depends on your personal preferences for typing speed, precision, sound profile, and tactile feedback. Consider what qualities are most important to you and select the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer unique features that can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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