KTT Strawberry vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB
An in-depth look at the KTT Strawberry and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between linear and tactile switches can significantly impact your typing experience. The KTT Strawberry switches are celebrated for their smooth, frictionless actuation and polished feel, making them an excellent choice for those who prefer a quiet and seamless typing experience. With their attractive pink and clear housings, the Strawberry switches not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your keyboard but also offer reliable performance suited for both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches provide a delightful tactile bump combined with a deep "thock" sound that many users find satisfying. Known for their refined sound profile and a quiet topping-out action, these switches are ideal for those who appreciate tactile feedback without excessive noise. Whether you're looking for the silky smoothness of the KTT Strawberry or the luxurious feel of the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, each switch offers unique advantages suited to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that’s right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Strawberry and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches exhibit significant differences that influence their sound profiles and overall user experience. The KTT Strawberry utilizes a polycarbonate material for both the top and bottom housings, which is known for its rigidity and translucency. This stiffer plastic contributes to a sharp, high-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for producing clearer and more resonant tones. Additionally, polycarbonate's clear nature makes it a highly desirable choice for RGB lighting applications, enhancing the visual aspect of the switches when illuminated.
In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches feature a proprietary blend of plastic referred to as "boba plastic" for both the top and bottom housings. This unique material, being softer than polycarbonate, produces a richer and deeper sound profile that contrasts with the crisper notes of the Strawberry. The softer nature of the Gazzew blend allows for a more muted and dampened sound, contributing to a different tactile experience. While both switches showcase a commitment to enhancing auditory aesthetics, the U4Tx RGB's softer materials lend themselves to a more comfortable and subdued keypress feel compared to the sharper response offered by the KTT Strawberry.
Despite the contrasting materials, both the KTT Strawberry and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB create acoustic experiences based on the interaction of their respective housing components. When the different materials of the top and bottom housings come into play, the effect of the softer Gazzew blend in the U4Tx RGB results in a more plush feeling upon keypress, with a bottom-out sound characterized by warmth. Meanwhile, the rigid polycarbonate of the Strawberry reinforces a more pronounced auditory feedback, especially noticeable during release. Therefore, for users seeking a balance of sound and tactile feel, tuning either switch could yield complementary qualities; achieving a harmonious blend of clarity and depth in their keyboard experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Strawberry linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, notable differences emerge. The Strawberry switch has a defined actuation force of 43 grams, while the U4Tx RGB does not specify an actuation force. This ambiguity leaves users to speculate about the U4Tx RGB's actuation feeling, as it could be either lighter or heavier than the Strawberry switch. However, both switches share a close bottom out force, with the U4Tx RGB at 65 grams and the Strawberry at 62 grams. This suggests that while both switches provide a medium to medium-heavy typing experience, the Strawberry will feel comparatively lighter during operation due to its lower actuation force. Those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions may find the KTT Strawberry more appealing, while users seeking a more substantial feel may lean toward the U4Tx RGB's heftier bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Strawberry linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, we find that they differ notably in their dimensions. The KTT Strawberry features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference highlights the preferences of users: those who prefer a more traditional, tactile feel might gravitate towards the KTT Strawberry, which provides a deeper press for a more substantial experience. On the other hand, gamers or individuals seeking quicker response times may benefit from the shorter travel of the U4Tx RGB. Overall, if you prioritize depth in your keystrokes, the KTT Strawberry is the superior option, whereas for a snappier, more responsive touch, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is the way to go.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91, whereas the Gazzew U4Tx RGB comes in at $6.50.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Strawberry linear switch provides a low-pitched audio profile that is typically more mellow and bass-heavy, creating a subtle yet pleasant acoustic experience. This characteristic contributes to a quieter environment while typing, making it ideal for settings where noise levels need to be kept in check. On the other hand, while details about the sound profile of the Gazzew U4Tx RGB are not provided, it is known for blending a deep "thock" sound when bottoming out along with a quieter top-out. This suggests that the U4Tx RGB offers a refined and distinct sound experience that adds a layer of auditory sophistication during use. Each switch has its unique sound quality, and factors such as the choice of keyboard structure and keycap materials can further influence the overall acoustic output.
In terms of feel, the KTT Strawberry linear switch excels with its range of characteristics, including a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. This means that the switch not only facilitates smooth key travel but also minimizes resistance and friction, making each keystroke feel effortless and fluid. The result is a luxurious typing sensation that can make prolonged typing sessions enjoyable. In contrast, there is no specific description of the tactile feel of the U4Tx RGB, leaving its experiential quality somewhat unknown. However, the U4Tx is known for its tactile bump, which suggests that it provides a distinct feedback during actuation, potentially contributing to a different but pleasant typing experience.
In conclusion, while both the KTT Strawberry and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches cater to different preferences, their attributes offer distinct advantages. The Strawberry’s low-pitched sound and smooth tactile experience promote quiet and comfortable typing, making it suitable for users prioritizing a serene environment. Meanwhile, the U4Tx RGB's "thock" sound and tactile feedback could cater to users looking for a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference regarding sound and feel, as users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the KTT Strawberry linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you favor a smooth and frictionless keystroke with a mellow, low-pitched sound, the Strawberry switch is an ideal choice. Its 62-gram actuation force provides a comfortable feel that's particularly suited for users who prefer a more fluid typing experience without any tactile bumps. This makes it great for long typing sessions or gaming where quick, uninterrupted keystrokes are essential. On the other hand, if you desire a more tactile response and a deeper acoustic profile, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch would be more appropriate. With its slightly higher actuation force of 65 grams, it delivers a luxurious typing experience characterized by a pronounced tactile bump and a refined "thock" sound when bottoming out. This switch caters well to those who appreciate the feedback of a tactile switch and enjoy a subtle yet satisfying auditory experience. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal typing style, the type of work or gaming you engage in, and the sensory feedback that you find most enjoyable.