HC Studio Crabapple vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there are clear differences in their characteristics and typing experiences. The Crabapple, crafted entirely from POM, offers a frictionless typing journey with a dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each downstroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, providing a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T excels in providing a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, producing a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback with each keystroke. While the Crabapple offers a smooth and subdued typing experience, the U4T delivers a more satisfying auditory and tactile experience. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gazzew U4T switches both prioritize creating a deep and rich sound profile. The Crabapple utilizes POM housing for both the top and bottom, while the U4T features a proprietary Gazzew blend for both components. The POM material in the Crabapple produces a relatively muted sound with a deeper tone, while the Gazzew blend in the U4T delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In terms of sound profile, both switches aim to provide a satisfying auditory experience for users.
One key difference between the two housing materials is the impact they have on the overall feel of the switches. The bottom housing material has a more significant effect on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down, while the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released. This means that the choice of housing material can affect both the tactile experience and the auditory feedback of typing on the switches. While the Crabapple and U4T may have different housing materials, they both prioritize creating a pleasant typing experience by taking into account both sound and feel.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gazzew U4T aim to provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience. The POM and Gazzew blend materials each contribute to a distinct sound profile, with the POM offering a more muted tone and deeper sound, while the Gazzew blend delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. Ultimately, whether using the Crabapple or the U4T, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with unique acoustics and tactile feedback that cater to individual preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is clear that the Crabapple is the lighter option. The Crabapple requires an actuation force of 37 grams and has a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a light switch overall. On the other hand, the U4T has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. The Crabapple is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the U4T caters to individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the U4T has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Crabapple. The Crabapple falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the U4T's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on the key. In terms of comparing and contrasting the two switches based on travel distance, the U4T is longer while the Crabapple is shorter, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HC Studio Crabapple has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crabapple for $4.70.
The Gazzew U4T 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 HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued and mild sound signature, providing a dampened yet subtle auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch delivers a bassy and thocky sound profile, giving a deeper and richer sound with a satisfying thud or knock sensation. While the Crabapple switch leans towards a more understated sound, the U4T switch emphasizes a more pronounced and tactile sound sensation. It is important to note that the actual sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is praised for its frictionless and textured typing experience, offering an effortless and smooth journey with a subtle texture felt during key presses. The Crabapple switch falls into the mild category, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is characterized by a sharp tactile bump, providing a distinct and intense tactile feedback with each keypress. The U4T switch offers a high feedback intensity, accentuating the tactile sensation for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile experience.
Overall, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer contrasting qualities in both sound and feel. The Crabapple switch provides a subdued sound and a frictionless, mild typing experience, while the U4T switch delivers a bassy, thocky sound and a sharp, tactile feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired outcome. It is essential to consider factors such as sound preference, tactile feedback, and overall typing feel when selecting a switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, consider the differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a mild sound signature, the Crabapple may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force, a bassy 'thock' sound profile, and a sharp tactile feedback, the U4T switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire.
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