TTC Iron vs. Gazzew LT
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Gazzew LT switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up are the TTC Iron and the Gazzew LT, both linear switches. The TTC Iron is praised for its distinctive clacky sound signature, making each press a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT stands out with its deep, resonant thockiness and smooth keystrokes. The Iron is categorized as ['Easy-to-press', 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Neutral'], while the LT is designated as ['Bassy', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched']. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences, whether you prioritize a light actuation for swift typing like the Iron or a more bass-heavy thockiness like the LT. 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
41g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Iron and the Gazzew LT switches both offer unique sound profiles, with the Iron's POM top and bottom housings creating a deep and pleasing sound that is relatively more muted. On the other hand, the LT's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housings provide a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While both switches offer a deep sound profile, the LT's boba plastic blend may have a softer and more pleasant sound compared to the POM material of the Iron.
The difference in housing materials between the TTC Iron and the Gazzew LT switches also affects the overall feel of the switches. The bottom housing material has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, with the Iron's POM bottom housing offering a more muted sensation compared to the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the LT. On the other hand, the top housing material plays a larger role in the sound when letting go of a key, with the Iron's POM top housing providing a deeper sound profile compared to the Gazzew blend top housing of the LT.
In conclusion, while both the TTC Iron and the Gazzew LT switches offer unique and pleasing sound profiles, the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch. The POM material of the Iron provides a more muted and deep sound profile, while the Gazzew blend material of the LT offers a softer and richer sound profile. Ultimately, the difference in housing materials between the two switches can cater to different preferences in sound and feel for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Iron linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Iron switch has a light actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the LT switch lacks information on its actuation force but boasts a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, offering a more substantial and satisfying keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Iron switch would be the ideal choice, allowing for longer typing sessions with ease. In contrast, the LT switch would cater to individuals who enjoy a more robust and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Gazzew LT has a shorter travel distance compared to the TTC Iron. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may result in a slightly different typing experience. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Gazzew LT with its shorter travel distance, while individuals who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the TTC Iron with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer their own unique feel and performance, so the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
The Gazzew LT 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 Iron linear switch is characterized by a sharp and snappy "clacky" sound, adding a crisp and bright dimension to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT linear switch offers a deep and rich "bassy" sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience with its resonant thockiness and low-pitched tones. While both switches deliver distinctive sound qualities, the Iron leans towards a sharper and more pronounced sound, while the LT offers a deeper and more mellow sound experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired auditory feedback during typing sessions.
Moving on to the feel, the TTC Iron linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press actuation, requiring minimal force to activate and resulting in a gentle and effortless typing experience. This light actuation force reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, enhancing overall comfort and responsiveness. In contrast, information regarding the feel of the Gazzew LT linear switch is unavailable. Despite this, one can infer that the LT may offer a similar effortless typing experience based on its "linear thock" designation, which suggests smooth and seamless key presses. Therefore, users can expect a comfortable and low-impact typing feel with the LT switch, akin to the characteristics of the Iron switch.
Overall, both the TTC Iron linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch offer unique and appealing qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Iron excels in providing a pronounced clacky sound and an easy-to-press typing experience, while the LT stands out with its deep bassy sound profile and presumably smooth keystrokes. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will boil down to individual preferences for sound profiles, actuation force, and overall typing feel. Both switches are sure to deliver a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, albeit with slight variations in their auditory and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, your choice should ultimately depend on your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a light actuation force, buttery smooth travel, and a pronounced clacky sound, then the TTC Iron switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a deep and resonant thocky sound, and a seamless glide with every keystroke, then the Gazzew LT switch is the better option for you. Consider your sound and feel preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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