HC Studio Crabapple vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it becomes clear that both offer unique typing experiences. The Crabapple, crafted entirely from POM, provides an effortlessly frictionless journey with a dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each keystroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, making it perfect for those seeking a subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches marry the best of both worlds by offering a clean and refined sound profile. They provide a deep, resonant thock when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out, coupled with a sharp, satisfying tactile bump. While the Crabapple switch is categorized as frictionless, mild, subdued, and textured, the U4Tx switch falls under bassy, muted, and sharp. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gazzew U4Tx both offer unique sound profiles that are rich and deep. The Crabapple features a POM top housing, which creates a relatively more muted and deeper sound profile. On the other hand, the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," to produce a similarly deep and pleasing sound. Both housing materials contribute to a satisfying typing experience with their softness and rich tones, making them ideal choices for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a premium feel.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the Crabapple's POM bottom housing and the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing continue to deliver deep and rich sound profiles. The POM bottom housing of the Crabapple complements the top housing, providing consistency in the sound output and further enhancing the overall typing experience. Similarly, the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4Tx contributes to the softness and depth of the sound, ensuring a harmonious balance between the top and bottom housings. This cohesive combination of housing materials results in a uniform and satisfying typing sound for both switches.
Although the POM and Gazzew blend housing materials used in the Crabapple and U4Tx switches are different, they share similarities in that they both create deep and pleasing sound profiles. Both switches offer a unique sound experience that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted, providing a premium typing experience for users. Whether you choose the Crabapple with its POM housing or the U4Tx with its Gazzew blend housing, you can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and overall typing satisfaction. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for the specific sound profile and feel each housing material offers.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, whose actuation force is unknown. On the other hand, the Crabapple has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is also lighter than the U4Tx's bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This means that the Crabapple switch would provide a smoother and easier typing experience, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming where lighter key presses are preferred. In contrast, the U4Tx switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel when typing. Both switches provide different typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with different preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is equal, both measuring at 3.6 mm. This means that both switches provide a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels from the top to bottom. Users can expect similar results and tactile feedback from both switches despite their differences in design and functionality. Whether you choose the Crabapple or the U4Tx, you can be assured of a smooth and efficient typing experience with a travel distance of 3.6 mm for both switches.
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 U4Tx 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 understated sound profile, providing a more subtle acoustic experience during typing. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch produces a deep and rich "thock" sound when bottoming out, combined with a quiet topping out noise, creating a luxurious and satisfying auditory experience. The U4Tx switches are characterized by a bassy and muted sound, which differs from the more mild and subdued sound of the Crabapple switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Crabapple linear switch is lauded for its frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless journey with each key press. The switch provides a mild and textured feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch delivers a sharp and intense tactile bump, providing a distinct feedback with every keystroke. This sharp tactile feedback sets the U4Tx apart from the more subtle and smooth feel of the Crabapple switch. Again, the decision between the two switches will be influenced by individual typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Overall, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch each offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Crabapple switch provides a subtle and smooth typing experience with a subdued sound profile, while the U4Tx switch offers a more intense tactile feedback and a deep, rich sound profile. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, so choosing between them will depend on whether you prefer a frictionless, mild feel with understated sound or a sharp, tactile feel with a bassy and muted sound. Ultimately, experimenting with both switches on your specific keyboard setup will allow you to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences for a truly satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a light bottom out force and enjoy a frictionless, dry smooth typing experience with a subtle texture, as well as a mild and understated sound signature, then the Crabapple switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and seek a luxurious typing experience with a sharp, satisfying tactile bump, deep "thock" sound profile, and whisper-quiet topping out sound, then the Gazzew U4Tx switch would be a great fit. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel, so consider what typing experience you value most before making your decision.
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