Huano Grape Orange vs. Gazzew U4T

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a crucial role in achieving the ultimate typing experience. The Huano Grape Orange switch, characterized as a linear switch, offers an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience with its ultra-low 40g actuation force, making it ideal for those who engage in extended typing sessions and prefer smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T switch caters to users who seek tactile feedback, boasting a bassy 'thock' sound profile that's coupled with assertive tactile response, providing both auditory and tactile satisfaction with each keystroke. While the Grape Orange is perfect for users prioritizing a fluid typing experience without the distraction of tactile bumps or noise, the U4T appeals to those who enjoy the satisfying feedback and acoustics associated with each keypress. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The Huano Grape Orange switch features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Gazzew U4T employs a proprietary plastic blend for both its top and bottom housings. The polycarbonate top housing of the Grape Orange is noted for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance. This is particularly beneficial for users who enjoy RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate accentuates the illumination effects. In contrast, the U4T’s top housing, crafted from a softer proprietary blend, tends to deliver a richer, deeper sound profile. This difference in material composition significantly influences the auditory experience, highlighting how the choice of housing material can dramatically shape the sound characteristics of a switch.

Looking deeper into the bottom housing, the Grape Orange's nylon contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile, acting as a sound absorber and yielding a more subdued auditory experience. This softness allows for a rounder sound that emphasizes the tactile response when bottoming out. On the other hand, the U4T's bottom housing, using the same proprietary Gazzew plastic blend found in its top, results in a similarly rich and deep sound profile. Thus, while both switches employ different materials for their top housings, the shared characteristics of softness in their bottom housings link the overall sound output to a degree. This indicates that even if the top housings differ, the consistent use of softer materials in the bottom housing can produce comparable results in the sound experience during key presses.

Ultimately, the combined effects of the housing materials can create an interesting interplay between sound and feel in both the Grape Orange and the U4T. The distinct top housing materials contribute unique tonal qualities—sharpness and clarity in the Grape Orange versus richness and warmth in the U4T—while the similar bottom housing composition allows for a deep, resonant sound end. Users who appreciate specific auditory profiles may prefer one switch over the other, but they will find that both options present satisfying overall experiences, highlighting the impact of material choice on keyboard switches and offering users a varied yet complimentary selection.

Weight

The Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch present notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which greatly influence typing experience. The Grape Orange has a comparatively lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially during long sessions. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T has an unknown actuation force but features a significantly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a more substantial tactile feedback and requiring more effort to press down completely. As a result, typists who favor a lighter switch for more prolonged usage should gravitate towards the Grape Orange. Meanwhile, those who enjoy a firmer typing experience with a noticeable resistance should consider the U4T. Overall, the Grape Orange is the lighter option, while the U4T emerges as the heavier choice.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Grape Orange features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the U4T boasts a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This slight difference indicates that users who prefer a more responsive typing experience might lean towards the Grape Orange due to its shorter travel distance, which can facilitate faster key presses, especially beneficial for gamers. On the other hand, the U4T's longer travel distance may appeal to those who appreciate a more pronounced key feel, offering a more tactile and hearty depth when typing. Thus, for those who prioritize responsiveness, the Grape Orange is the superior choice, whereas the U4T caters to users who favor a more traditional typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Huano Grape Orange switch is not detailed specifically in terms of auditory qualities, leaving its character somewhat uncertain; however, it typically falls within the linear switch category, which often translates to a quieter operation compared to tactile or clicky switches. Conversely, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is well known for its distinct auditory profile, characterized by its bassy and thocky sound. This means that when you press the U4T switch, it delivers a satisfying, deep sound reminiscent of a solid thud, providing an auditory experience that many users find enjoyable and rewarding.

When considering feel, the Huano Grape Orange switch is recognized for providing an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience, complemented by its ultra-low 40g actuation force. This lightness benefits users engaged in prolonged typing sessions, reducing fatigue. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T offers a pronounced tactile experience, blending sharp tactile feedback with a deep thock sound. This duality gives users a more involved typing sensation where each keypress feels precise and deliberate, catering to those who enjoy a strong connection to their actions on the keyboard.

Overall, when comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch with the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, you'll find that they cater to different preferences. The Grape Orange excels in providing a lightweight, quiet typing experience ideal for those who prioritize efficiency and comfort during long use. Meanwhile, the U4T stands out with its rich, thocky sound and satisfying tactile feedback, appealing to users who derive pleasure from auditory and tactile responses. Depending on your typing style and preference for sound and feel, you'll find either switch can deliver a rewarding experience, though they speak to different aspects of keyboard enjoyment.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, your personal preferences in typing style and sound experience should guide your decision. If you value a smooth, almost effortless typing experience, especially for long typing sessions, the Grape Orange is the better choice. With its low actuation force of 40 grams and light bottom-out force of 50 grams, this switch is designed for those who prioritize speed and comfort without much resistance. Conversely, if you desire pronounced tactile feedback along with a satisfying auditory experience, the U4T's heavier actuation of 65 grams and pronounced 'thocky' sound will provide that gratifying response with each keystroke. Its combination of tactile sensation and deep acoustic characteristics makes it a delight for those who enjoy the thrill of tactile switches while typing or gaming. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the effortless smoothness of the Grape Orange or the tactile richness of the U4T, both switches have unique features tailored to different typing experiences, ensuring that you can find the right fit for your preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more