KTT F2 vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to preferences in sound, feel, and overall typing experience. The KTT F2, a linear switch, offers a unique hollow sound signature that sets it apart in the auditory realm. With a medium-light weightiness and lightly textured feel, each keystroke on the F2 provides a comfortable yet tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4, a tactile switch, boasts a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump accompanied by a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. Its whisper-quiet sound profile adds a touch of subtlety to its overall performance. Each switch is categorized differently; the F2 as 'Feathery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Subdued', 'Subtle', and the U4 as 'Muted', 'Low-pitched', 'Sharp'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preferences in sound, feel, and typing style. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Gazzew U4, both switches feature polycarbonate in their top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of a switch is especially beneficial for showcasing RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 utilizes a proprietary plastic blend known as "boba plastic" in its top housing, which delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate in the F2 leans towards a clearer and more resonant sound, while the "boba plastic" in the U4 provides a deeper and richer tone.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the KTT F2 and the Gazzew U4 feature polycarbonate in their respective bottom housings. Just like in the top housing, polycarbonate in the bottom housing of a switch contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 utilizes its proprietary "boba plastic" blend in the bottom housing, which delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. Despite the difference in materials used, both switches benefit from the unique sound characteristics brought by their respective bottom housings.
Overall, while the housing materials used in the KTT F2 and the Gazzew U4 offer distinct sound profiles, they both excel in creating high-quality and unique typing experiences. The polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the F2 contribute to a sharper, clearer sound profile with a hint of resonance, while the proprietary "boba plastic" blend utilized in the U4's top and bottom housings deliver a rich, deep sound profile. Both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in creating an enhanced typing experience, with each material bringing its own unique qualities to the table. Whether you prefer a crisper sound or a deeper tone, both switches offer a premium typing experience through their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, the F2 has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the U4's 45 grams. Additionally, the F2 has a lower bottom out force of 53 grams, while the U4 requires a heavier 62 grams to bottom out. The F2 provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons where fatigue is a concern. On the other hand, the U4 offers a more substantial typing feel with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push sensation for their keystrokes. Overall, the F2 is lighter in actuation and bottom out force compared to the U4, making it a better choice for those seeking a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, making them popular choices for those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be significant in terms of feeling the difference when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference, with those favoring a slightly longer travel distance potentially opting for the Gazzew U4 tactile switch for a slightly more pronounced feeling when typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT F2 comes in at $3.90, whereas the Gazzew U4 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 F2 linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch provides a muted and low-pitched sound, creating a quieter and bass-heavy typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the F2 being more versatile and the U4 leaning towards a quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the KTT F2 switch provides a feathery and mild typing experience, offering a comfortable and gentle typing feel suitable for extended use. The lightly textured feel adds a subtle tactile nuance to every keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 switch offers a sharp tactile bump that provides high feedback intensity, making each keypress distinct and crisp. The plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation of the U4 adds a luxurious feel to the typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the F2 excels in providing a neutral and comfortable typing experience with a subtly textured feel, the U4 stands out with its sharp tactile feedback and plush bottom-out sensation. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, providing a unique typing experience for users. Whether you prefer a more versatile and subdued sound profile or a quieter and pronounced tactile feedback, both the F2 and U4 switches offer high-quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT F2 linear switch or the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it really comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-light switch with a distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel, then the F2 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a plush bottom-out sensation and a whisper quiet sound profile, then the U4 could be the better option. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so ultimately, the decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and satisfying to you as a typist.
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