Kailh Plum vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Kailh Plum and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Plum and the Gazzew U4T are two popular options that offer distinct characteristics. The Plum is best known for its unique combination of heftiness and subtle tactility. Unlike many other tactile switches, the Plum does not feature a prominent tactile bump, which sets it apart from the crowd. Additionally, its sound profile is neutral and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T excels in delivering a satisfying typing experience with its harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. Every keystroke on the U4T provides both auditory and tactile satisfaction, thanks to its bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback. While these general pointers can help you narrow down your options, let's explore further to determine which switch best suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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 of the Kailh Plum and the Gazzew U4T offer distinct differences in terms of sound profile and feel. The Plum features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Due to its translucency, polycarbonate is also ideal for switches that use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the U4T utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, commonly referred to as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile. This soft plastic blend contributes to a unique typing experience by producing a fuller sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Plum employs a nylon material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the U4T also utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend for the bottom housing. This "boba plastic" contributes to a rich and deep sound profile, similar to the top housing.
Despite their differences, both switches share certain qualities. For instance, the softness of the Gazzew blend material in both the top and bottom housing ensures a more pronounced sound when keys are released. Additionally, the softness of the U4T's housing materials contributes to a more tactile typing experience. Similarly, the stiffer polycarbonate material of the Plum's top housing provides a clearer and resonant sound profile, making it suitable for those who prefer a crisper feel.
Overall, while the Kailh Plum and the Gazzew U4T have distinct housing materials, they offer comparable sound profiles and typing experiences. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences for the specific sound characteristics and feel provided by each switch's housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, both switches have an actuation force of unavailable grams, meaning that the specific force required to trigger a keystroke is unknown for both switches. However, the Kailh Plum has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Gazzew U4T has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is classified as medium.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gazzew U4T may be the preferable option as it has a lower bottom out force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This would be ideal for individuals using the keyboard for work or engaging in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, if a more substantial typing experience is desired, the Kailh Plum with its heavier bottom out force would provide a stronger push feel.
Although the actuation forces of both switches are unknown, it is likely that the results would be similar in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, it is important to consider the weight of the switches when choosing between the two.
Travel distance
The Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have different travel distances. The Plum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the U4T has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, 4.0mm is considered the most common, while 3.0mm is the shallowest. However, recent trends have seen a rise in shorter travel distances, particularly preferred by gamers for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Plum with its shorter travel distance would be the suitable choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find short travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a deeper feel. For those who enjoy more depth, the Gazzew U4T with its longer travel distance would be the better option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25, 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Plum switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. It is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using them at home or work. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile. The sound of these switches is characterized by a deeper and richer tone, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, they produce a satisfying deep "thud" or soft "knock" when pressed and released. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also dependent on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Plum switch provides a mild and stepped typing experience. This means that it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of these switches are approachable to most, as they fall in a safe middle-ground zone. Stepped switches, like the Plum, have two stages of tactility, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switch provides a sharp tactile feel. These switches are known for their high feedback intensity, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress.
In conclusion, the Kailh Plum switch stands out for its unique combination of a hefty feel and a moderate tactile bump. It offers a neutral sound profile and a mild, stepped typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switch offers a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, providing a bassy sound profile and a sharp tactile feel. The Plum and U4T switches each offer their own distinctive qualities, catering to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. However, if you are looking for similar results, the Plum can provide a moderate and approachable experience like the U4T, although with different characteristics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a switch that offers a unique combination of weightiness and moderate tactility, the Kailh Plum tactile switch may be the right choice for you. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, these switches offer a medium-heavy feel that can provide a satisfying typing experience without overwhelming tactile feedback. The Plum switches also have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you intend to use them at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer switches that deliver a deep and bassy thock sound profile along with assertive tactile feedback, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch may be more up your alley. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, these switches offer a medium weight that is comfortable for most typists. The U4T switches are known for their harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, providing both an auditory and tactile satisfaction with each keystroke.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Plum and Gazzew U4T tactile switches comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize weightiness and a more neutral sound profile, the Plum switches may be a great fit. However, if you value a bassy thock sound profile and a sharp and intense tactile bump, the U4T switches may better suit your typing style. Consider your preferred typing experience, sound preferences, and intended use to make an informed decision on which switch is best for you.
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