KTT Grapefruit vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Grapefruit and Gazzew U4T are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique experiences for different preferences. The Grapefruit switches are best known for their soft and light type feel, with a "baritone" sound profile. They fall into the categories of being low-pitched, neutral, and polished. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switches embody a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, providing a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback. They are categorized as being bassy, thocky, and sharp. Each switch offers distinct benefits, allowing you to tailor your typing experience to your personal preference. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision in choosing the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 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
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 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the KTT Grapefruit and the Gazzew U4T switches differ significantly, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Grapefruit features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Its relatively stiffer plastic allows for clear and resonant sound production. Additionally, the Grapefruit's polycarbonate top housing works well with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the U4T utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," which produces a rich and deep sound. This unique plastic blend's softness contributes to the switch's sonic characteristics.
The bottom housings of the Grapefruit and U4T switches also differ in material. The Grapefruit employs a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. On the other hand, the U4T implements its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, providing a similar rich and deep sound due to its softness.
When considering the overall sound experience, it is crucial to understand the influence of both top and bottom housings. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down a key, while the top housing significantly affects the sound produced upon key release. Therefore, while the KTT Grapefruit and Gazzew U4T differ in their specific housing materials, the use of soft plastics in both switches contributes to their rich and deep sound profiles. However, the Grapefruit's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing produces a distinct and unique sonic character.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it becomes evident that they have different characteristics. The Grapefruit has a medium-light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. In contrast, the U4T's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare. However, its bottom out force is 62 grams, placing it in the medium range.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer lighter switches may find the Grapefruit more appealing. Its lower actuation force allows for longer typing sessions without excessive finger fatigue. This makes it suitable for tasks like office work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces. The U4T, with its higher bottom out force of 62 grams, provides a stronger push feel.
While the actuation force of the U4T remains unknown, it is likely that the Grapefruit's lighter actuation force will yield a similar result. However, it is important to note that without specific information about the U4T's actuation force, a direct comparison in this regard is impossible.
In conclusion, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch offers a medium-light actuation force and a slightly lighter bottom out force. Meanwhile, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a medium bottom out force, potentially providing a more substantial typing feel. Those seeking lighter switches for extended usage may gravitate towards the Grapefruit, while those desiring a heavier push may prefer the U4T.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when you press down on a key. Interestingly, both the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance of travel. This similarity in travel distance ensures a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch you choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41, whereas the Gazzew U4T 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
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch is best known for its soft and light feel, offering a gentle typing experience. Its sound profile is often described as "baritone," with a deep but not quite bassy tone. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch combines thockiness with sharp tactility. It produces a bassy "thock" sound that provides a satisfying auditory experience. Its tactile feedback is assertive, with a distinct and strong tactile bump felt with every keypress.
When comparing the sound qualities of the two switches, the Grapefruit switch has a low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This creates a deeper and richer sound during key presses. In contrast, the U4T switch has a bassy thock sound, resembling a deep "thud" or soft "knock" when keys are pressed and released. The Grapefruit switch's sound is more neutral, while the U4T switch's sound is characterized by its bass tones and thockiness.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Grapefruit switch provides a polished typing experience. This means that it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the U4T switch offers a sharp tactile feel. This means that it has a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress.
In conclusion, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Grapefruit switch has a lighter and softer feel, with a more neutral sound profile. In contrast, the U4T switch provides a sharper tactile feel and a bassy thock sound. Both switches offer satisfying auditory and tactile experiences, but with distinct differences. It is important to consider personal preferences and the desired typing experience when choosing between these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a soft and light typing experience with a gentle sound profile, the Grapefruit switches would be a great choice for you. They offer a polished feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you seek auditory and tactile satisfaction with a deeper and richer sound profile, the U4T switches are the way to go. With their bassy 'thock' sound profile and sharp tactile feedback, every keystroke will provide a satisfying experience. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics, so it's important to consider your own preferences and needs when making a decision.
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