KTT Grapefruit vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, look no further than the KTT Grapefruit and the Gazzew U4. While both switches offer unique benefits, they are distinct in their characteristics and typing experience. The KTT Grapefruit is a linear switch that is best known for its soft and light feel, accompanied by a distinctive "baritone" sound profile. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', these switches offer a pleasant typing experience without being too loud. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 is a tactile switch that provides a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump when typing, along with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. The U4s also boast a whisper-quiet sound profile, making them ideal for those seeking a more muted typing experience. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Grapefruit Linear

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$3.41 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Gazzew U4 differ significantly in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Grapefruit utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This makes it ideal for users who prioritize a clear and resonant sound experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While the Grapefruit's polycarbonate top housing produces a distinct and clear sound, the U4's Gazzew blend top housing offers a more mellow and soothing audio experience.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Grapefruit employs a nylon material, a classic choice known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to the nylon's relatively softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 boasts a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This "boba plastic" brings the same softness to the bottom of the switch, contributing to a rich and deep sound profile. By utilizing different materials in the top and bottom housings, both the Grapefruit and U4 achieve a balanced sound experience, with each housing material impacting different aspects of the switch's sound.

When it comes to the overall feel of the switch, the impact of the housing materials is divided between the top and bottom. Pressing down on the switch will be influenced more by the qualities of the bottom housing, while releasing a key will be more affected by the top housing. This highlights the importance of selecting appropriate housing materials to achieving the desired sound and tactile experience.

In conclusion, the KTT Grapefruit and the Gazzew U4 distinguish themselves in terms of their housing materials and resulting sound profiles. The Grapefruit utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound, combined with a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing, known as "boba plastic," for a rich and deep sound experience. Despite their differences, both switches prioritize the materials' impact on sound, showcasing the significance of housing materials in mechanical keyboards.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there are a few notable differences. The Grapefruit has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light in terms of weight. On the other hand, the U4 has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, resulting in a medium weight.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Grapefruit would be a suitable choice as its actuation and bottom out forces are lower. This lighter weight allows for comfortable and prolonged typing, making it ideal for those who use their keyboards for work or engage in long gaming sessions. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial feel and a stronger push when typing, the U4 would be a better option. Its slightly heavier bottom out force provides a more robust and tactile typing experience.

While there are differences in the actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches, it is important to note that both fall within the medium range. Therefore, if someone is seeking a similar typing experience in terms of force, they could expect comparable results from both the Grapefruit and U4 switches. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on personal preference and the desired weight for the typing experience.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Grapefruit is more traditional, offering a balanced feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the U4's 3.6 mm travel distance falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which are increasingly popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. Opting for the shorter travel distance of the U4 can provide a more responsive typing or gaming experience. However, it's important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel somewhat abrupt. For those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing, the longer travel distance of the Grapefruit switch would be a better choice. Overall, while the two switches have different travel distances, both offer their own advantages and it ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The KTT Grapefruit linear switch offers a soft and light feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. It is considered to have a "baritone" sound profile, with a deep but not overly bass-heavy tone. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch features a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, offering a high feedback intensity with each keypress. It also provides an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation for added comfort. The U4 switches have a sound profile that is whisper quiet, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches.

In summary, the Grapefruit and U4 switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Grapefruit provides a soft and light feel, with a moderately low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the U4 offers a sharp tactile bump and a plush bottom-out sensation, with a muted and low-pitched sound profile. While they have different characteristics, both switches offer unique typing experiences and can be suitable for various preferences. Depending on the desired sound and feel, the choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference. If a similar sound profile is desired, the Grapefruit can provide a comparable result to the low-pitched aspect of the U4.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a soft and light linear switch with a moderate sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit is a great choice. These switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Grapefruit has a low-pitched sound profile, which features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, the Grapefruit is considered medium-light in terms of actuation force.

On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, the Gazzew U4 is the way to go. These switches provide a plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation, adding to the typing experience. The U4 has a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, the U4 is considered medium in terms of actuation force.

Ultimately, your choice between the KTT Grapefruit and the Gazzew U4 will depend on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a softer and quieter typing experience with a light linear switch, the Grapefruit is an excellent option. However, if you enjoy a strong and crisp tactile feedback with a silent tactile switch, the U4 will suit your needs. Consider your desired sound profile, actuation force, and typing feel to make an informed decision.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Grapefruit Linear

$3.41 per 10

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Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more