KTT Grapefruit vs. Gazzew U4Tx

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the KTT Grapefruit and the Gazzew U4Tx. The KTT Grapefruit is a linear switch that offers a soft and light type feel. Known for its low-pitched yet neutral sound profile, this switch is perfect for those who prefer a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx is a tactile switch that combines the best of both worlds. With a refined sound profile featuring a deep resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out, the U4Tx ensures a luxurious and acoustically pleasing typing experience. Its sharp tactile bump adds an extra level of satisfaction to each press. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Grapefruit Linear

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$3.41 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The KTT Grapefruit and the Gazzew U4Tx have contrasting housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Grapefruit utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer plastic compared to the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing. Due to its stiffness, polycarbonate creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, resulting in clearer and more resonant typing experience. Additionally, the Grapefruit's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx's top housing, made from the proprietary "boba plastic" blend, provides a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. This softness absorbs sound, resulting in a softer and more muffled typing sound compared to polycarbonate.

When it comes to the bottom housing, the Grapefruit features a nylon material, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder typing sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx also utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, similar to its top housing. Being made from the "boba plastic" blend, the U4Tx's bottom housing contributes to its rich and deep sound profile, thanks to its softness.

Although the top and bottom housings of the Grapefruit and the U4Tx differ, they both deliver unique sound experiences. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit creates a sharper and more resonant sound when keys are released, while the soft "boba plastic" top housing of the U4Tx produces a rich and deep sound in a similar scenario. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Grapefruit results in a deeper and fuller sound upon keypress, while the "boba plastic" bottom housing of the U4Tx contributes to a similarly rich and deep sound. Despite their differences, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience based on personal preferences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, some notable differences arise. The Grapefruit has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a medium-light push feel, while the actuation force of the U4Tx is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare. However, it is clear that the bottom out force of the Grapefruit is 53 grams, which remains medium-light. In contrast, the U4Tx boasts a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, giving it a medium-heavy push feel.

Considering the weight of these switches, individuals may have their own preferences based on their specific needs. Some may find a lighter actuation force desirable, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This lightweight characteristic is particularly advantageous for keyboards used in professional settings or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who seek a more substantial typing experience may opt for a switch with a heavier force. For them, the Gazzew U4Tx with its medium-heavy bottom out force could provide the desired resistance and feedback during typing.

While the actuation force for the U4Tx is unknown in this context, it is crucial to note that the comparison between the two switches becomes difficult without this information. If the actuation forces were similar, it would result in a comparable typing experience in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. Nevertheless, the identified differences in bottom out forces indicate that the Grapefruit is lighter overall, while the U4Tx is on the heavier side.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is clear that the Grapefruit has a longer travel distance at 4 mm compared to the U4Tx's 3.6 mm. The Grapefruit falls into the more traditional range of travel distances at 4.0 mm, while the U4Tx is slightly shorter than the norm at 3.6 mm. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, typically prefer shorter travel distances. So, if you are looking for a more responsive switch, the U4Tx with its shorter travel distance would be a better option. However, for those who enjoy a deeper and more substantial keypress, the Grapefruit's longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The KTT Grapefruit linear switch is known for its soft and light feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. It has a low-pitched sound profile that is described as having a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work.

On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch combines the best of both worlds. It provides a sharp and satisfying tactile bump with each press, ensuring a luxurious typing experience. When bottoming out, the U4T switch produces a deep and resonant "thock" sound, while the topping out sound is whisper-quiet and stealthy. The U4Tx has a bassy sound, characterized by a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It is also described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches.

Based on the available information, it can be concluded that the Grapefruit and U4Tx switches offer different subjective qualities. The Grapefruit switch provides a soft and light feel with a low-pitched, neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the U4Tx switch offers a sharp tactile bump and a deep, resonant "thock" sound coupled with a whisper-quiet topping out sound. While the Grapefruit switch is described as polished and smooth, the U4Tx switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback. Whether you prefer a softer and lighter typing experience or a more pronounced tactile feedback with deeper sound, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a soft and light linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Grapefruit switch is the way to go. These switches offer a unique, tarty feel and produce a deep yet not overwhelming sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a cleaner and refined sound profile with a deeper and richer tone, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is your best bet. With its medium-heavy bottom out force, these switches provide a satisfying tactile bump and a whisper-quiet topping out sound. Additionally, the Grapefruit switch offers a polished and smooth typing experience, while the U4Tx switch provides a sharp and intense tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force. Whether you are a beginner or advanced user, at home or work, both switches provide excellent options for an acoustically pleasing and luxurious typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Grapefruit Linear

$3.41 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more