Gazzew LT vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gazzew LT linear switch to the Cherry MX Red linear switch, there are some key differences to consider. The LT is best known for its enticing lilac hue and the auditory symphony of deep, resonant "thockiness" it provides with every keystroke. On the other hand, the MX Red is a classic Cherry switch known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. While both switches are categorized as "thocky" and "low-pitched", the MX Red also brings a "textured" element to the table. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and Cherry MX Red both use different materials for both their top and bottom housing, with the LT's proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing being described as delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, while the MX Red's nylon top and bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile also due to its softer plastic. Both switches share the quality of creating a duller and rounder sound due to the sound-absorbing properties of their respective housing materials.
However, the Gazzew LT's proprietary plastic blend top and bottom housing, sometimes referred to as "boba plastic," may have a slightly richer and deeper sound profile compared to the MX Red's nylon housing. This could be attributed to the specific blend of plastics used in the Gazzew LT, which is designed to enhance sound quality. On the other hand, the MX Red's nylon housing may offer a more classic and traditional typing experience, with a deep and full sound profile that is beloved by many keyboard enthusiasts.
While both the Gazzew LT and Cherry MX Red utilize different housing materials for their switches, they ultimately serve to enhance the overall typing experience. The split between the qualities each housing material brings, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when a key is released, allows for a nuanced and dynamic typing experience with both switches. Whether you prefer the slightly richer sound profile of the Gazzew LT or the classic typing feel of the Cherry MX Red, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that caters to a variety of preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences to the user. The Gazzew LT has a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience but not listing an actuation force. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter in comparison, but does not have a specified bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cherry MX Red switch, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Gazzew LT switch with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the right fit for their typing needs.
Travel distance
The Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it shorter than the Cherry MX Red linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The LT offers a quicker key press response due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers seeking faster reaction times. On the other hand, the MX Red provides a more substantial key press feel with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced actuation. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distance, catering to different preferences for keyboard users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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
When it comes to sound, both the Gazzew LT and Cherry MX Red switches offer a thocky and low-pitched profile, providing a deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. The LT switches lean towards a bassier sound with their lilac hue, adding a touch of uniqueness to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Red switches are known for a slightly heftier sound profile, offering a robust and satisfying depth to each keystroke. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard layout, case material, keycap material, and typing technique.
Moving on to feel, while information about the LT switches is not readily available, the Cherry MX Red switches are described as textured, which means they provide a noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may appreciate this texture for added tactility, while others may prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. The tactile feedback of a switch plays a crucial role in how users perceive the typing feel and can significantly impact typing speed and accuracy.
Overall, both the Gazzew LT and Cherry MX Red linear switches offer unique sound profiles, with the LT switches boasting a bassier and thockier tone compared to the Cherry MX Reds slightly heftier sound. In terms of feel, while the LT switches lack information regarding their tactile experience, the Cherry MX Red switches are known for their textured feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference, as each offers a distinct typing experience that caters to different user preferences. Whether you prefer a deeper and more bass-heavy sound or a slightly textured tactile feel, both the Gazzew LT and Cherry MX Red switches can deliver similar results in terms of linear switch performance.
Conclusion
In summary, when it comes to choosing between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a unique deep, resonant "thocky" sound profile with a lilac hue, then the Gazzew LT switch might be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel, a robust typing experience, and a classic deep "thocky" sound profile, then the Cherry MX Red switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing experience. Make sure to test out both switches before making your final choice.
Mentioned in this article
