Huano Grape Orange vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Grape Orange and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB offer two distinctive experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Grape Orange switches are celebrated for their ultra-light 40g actuation force, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless feel, ideal for those who engage in long typing sessions and prefer a linear switch that allows for rapid key presses without any tactile resistance. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches deliver a delightful blend of auditory and tactile feedback, featuring a satisfying "thock" sound upon bottoming out and a pronounced tactile bump at the actuation point, which many typists appreciate for enhancing the overall typing experience while maintaining a quieter operation. With both switches catering to varied needs—whether you prefer a swift, uninterrupted flow or a more deliberate and tactile feel—understanding their features is crucial. 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 U4Tx RGB Tactile

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Grape Orange and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches, it's clear that the two employ markedly different top housing materials, which influences their sonic characteristics. The Grape Orange utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, imparting sharper, higher-pitched audio qualities due to its stiffer structure. This material's translucency also complements RGB lighting, enhancing illumination effects. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB incorporates a proprietary blend of plastics often referred to as "boba plastic," resulting in a sound profile that is fuller and deeper. While the unique plastic composition may lead to different auditory experiences, both materials aim to enhance sound clarity in their ways, illustrating how even contrasting components can achieve defined auditory goals.

As we turn our attention to the bottom housing, there's a notable convergence between these two switches. Both the Grape Orange and the U4Tx RGB adopt softer materials, with the former using nylon and the latter featuring the same proprietary Gazzew blend as its top housing. This softness fosters a sound profile that is deeper and rounder, as softer plastics tend to absorb sound rather than project it. Consequently, both switches exhibit very similar sound qualities in this aspect, regardless of the differing materials above them. Because both employ softer plastics in the bottom housing, users can expect a corresponding impact on the bottom-out sound and feel that aligns closely between the two models.

In summary, the contrasting top housing materials of the Huano Grape Orange and Gazzew U4Tx RGB will deliver distinct auditory profiles, with polycarbonate providing a clearer and more resonant sound and the proprietary "boba plastic" contributing a richer, fuller tone. However, the use of similar soft plastics in their bottom housings effectively harmonizes the sound experience when bottoming out, allowing users to appreciate deeper timbres regardless of the unique top housing contributions. This intersection of material properties highlights how the interplay between different housing materials ultimately shapes the tactile and audible characteristics of each switch, leading to nuanced but distinct typing experiences for users.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Grape Orange features a light actuation force of 40 grams, allowing for a comfortable typing experience, especially beneficial for extended use during long workdays or gaming sessions. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB does not have a specified actuation force, making direct comparison difficult; however, it has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, which suggests a firmer feel when fully pressed down. This makes the U4Tx RGB a better choice for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Grape Orange is the lighter option, while the U4Tx RGB is on the heavier side, catering to different preferences based on typing comfort and feel.

Travel distance

Both the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that they share the same key press depth. This similar travel distance results in a comparable feel when pressing down on each key, making them suitable for users who prefer a consistent typing experience. Since both switches feature the same travel distance, you can expect similar key actuation and overall performance, providing an equal tactile response while typing or gaming.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Grape Orange switch is relatively quiet, offering a subdued typing experience that doesn't produce sharp audible feedback, making it suitable for quiet environments where noise might be a concern. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch provides a deeper, more resonant "thock" sound when bottoming out, coupled with a subtle quietness at peak actuation, creating a richer auditory profile. While one aims for a more muted experience and the other seeks a bold, satisfying acoustic response, both will ultimately depend on the keyboard construction and keycap choice to fully realize their potential sound characteristics.

When it comes to feel, the Grape Orange switch excels in providing an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience due to its ultra-low 40g actuation force, this makes it particularly suitable for long typing sessions as it minimizes finger fatigue. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch entails a tactile bump that is well-defined and satisfying, offering a luxurious typing experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. While the Grape Orange delivers a smooth linear motion, the U4Tx RGB combines smoothness with tactile feedback, positioning them for different typing preferences.

Overall, the Huano Grape Orange and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches cater to distinct tastes in both sound and feel. If you're after a light, quiet switch conducive to extended typing, the Grape Orange is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a deeper auditory feedback and tactile sensation, the U4Tx RGB suits your needs better. Each switch has its merits and potential depending on personal preference and typing style, allowing you to find the right fit for your mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch will largely depend on your typing needs and preferences. If you favor a light and effortless typing experience, especially during extended sessions, the low actuation force and smoothness of the Grape Orange switches will serve you well, allowing for quick, fluid key presses without fatigue. This makes them ideal for typists who prioritize speed and lightness, such as gamers or those who write frequently. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more tactile feedback and a richer auditory experience, the U4Tx RGB switch may be the better choice. The medium-heavy actuation force, combined with its distinctive 'thock' sound, provides a more pronounced tactile bump that can enhance your overall typing experience. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy the sensation of each keystroke and prefer a quieter yet satisfying sound during use. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you want a lighter, smoother touch or a pronounced tactile feel with auditory feedback.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more