Outemu Purple vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Purple and the Gazzew U4 are two popular options to consider. The Outemu Purple is known for its smooth tactile feedback, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 is highly praised for its silent tactile switches that offer a sharp tactile bump and a plush bottom-out sensation, ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing environment. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Purple and the Gazzew U4 switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Purple features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the U4 comes with a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing that delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While the Purple's top housing allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the U4's top housing creates a more mellow sound experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Purple utilizes nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness. This material absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Gazzew U4 also incorporates a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, delivering a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. Both bottom housings contribute to the overall sound experience of the switches, providing a unique typing feel for users.
Overall, the different housing materials of the Outemu Purple and the Gazzew U4 switches offer distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. While the Purple's polycarbonate top housing creates a crisper sound, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing delivers a deeper tone. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing in the Purple offers a fuller sound, while the Gazzew blend bottom housing in the U4 provides a rich sound experience. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences for typing enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Outemu Purple has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gazzew U4's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Gazzew U4 is 62 grams, while the bottom out force of the Outemu Purple is unknown. This means that the Gazzew U4 provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Outemu Purple for extended typing sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the Gazzew U4 for a more satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is evident that the Purple has a slightly longer travel distance at 4 mm compared to the U4's 3.6 mm. In terms of response time, gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the U4 for quicker key presses, while those who prefer a more substantial depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Outemu Purple. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Purple on the longer side and the U4 on the shorter side. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Purple comes in at $3.10, whereas the Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50.
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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Purple tactile switch does not have a specific descriptor mentioned, which may indicate a more standard mechanical keyboard sound. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is known for its muted and low-pitched sound profile. This means that the U4 will produce a softer, quieter, and more bass-heavy sound compared to the Purple switch. However, it's important to note that the actual sound produced by a switch is influenced by various factors including the keyboard's case and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Purple switch does not have a specific descriptor provided. On the contrary, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is renowned for its sharp tactile feedback. This means that the U4 switch offers a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress, providing a distinct and intense tactile experience compared to the Purple switch.
In conclusion, the Outemu Purple and Gazzew U4 tactile switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Purple switch may provide a more standard mechanical keyboard sound and feel, the U4 switch stands out for its muted, low-pitched sound profile and sharp tactile feedback. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, you can choose between these two switches to enhance your typing experience accordingly. However, if you prefer a quieter, bass-heavy sound with intense tactile feedback, the Gazzew U4 switch would be the ideal choice for you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a switch with a light bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a unique tactile experience, the Outemu Purple may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a sharp and intense tactile bump with a plush bottom-out sensation, the Gazzew U4 may be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique characteristics and it's important to choose based on what feels best for you.
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