Outemu Purple vs. Gazzew U4T

Overview

When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Purple and the Gazzew U4T offer unique experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Outemu Purple is a tactile switch, appreciated by users who enjoy a pronounced tactile bump without any defining features that set it apart. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T is renowned for its harmonious blend of thockiness and sharp tactility, delivering a rich, bassy sound profile that enhances the auditory experience of each keystroke. The U4T's assertive feedback provides not just satisfying tactile responses but also contributes to a more immersive typing experience. While both switches present their own merits in tactile satisfaction and user experience, they ultimately serve different needs and desires in a mechanical keyboard context. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Purple Tactile

Gazzew U4T Tactile

$3.10 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the Outemu Purple and Gazzew U4T switches, a noticeable contrasting characteristic lies in the materials used for their top housing. The Outemu Purple features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and ability to produce a higher-pitched, crisper sound profile. Its translucency also makes it an excellent choice for RGB lighting effects, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T employs a proprietary plastic blend, often called "boba plastic," which is softer than polycarbonate. This composition results in a sound profile that leans towards rich and deep tones, prioritizing a more rounded auditory experience. Thus, the differences in top housing materials significantly influence the sound and visual characteristics of each switch.

On the bottom housing front, both switches employ materials that contribute distinctly to their overall auditory experiences. While the Outemu Purple utilizes a nylon bottom housing, recognized for its ability to deliver a softer, fuller sound profile, the Gazzew U4T also features a proprietary blend that mirrors this softness. The similarities in their bottom housing materials suggest that both switches will absorb sounds efficiently, leading to a duller and deeper auditory response during keystrokes. This shared trait emphasizes that, despite the differences in the top housing, both switches are designed to create a rich sound experience wherein the bottom housing plays a critical role in shaping the overall sound profile and feel during use.

When considering how the characteristics of each switch's housing impact performance, it’s clear that they have been crafted with thought to achieve particular auditory results. The polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Purple creates a sharper release sound, while the softer top of the Gazzew U4T nurtures a more muted release. Conversely, both switches feature bottom housings that enhance the richness and depth of sound, underlining the importance of both components in how the switches feel and sound overall. Even though their top housing materials create contrasting effects, the resulting sound profiles can be harmoniously blended together when considering the complete design of the switches. Ultimately, each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences, with shared traits in the bottom housing uniting them in a rich auditory experience.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Purple tactile switch with the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, we find notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Purple features an actuation force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option that could appeal to typists and gamers looking for a more effortless keypress experience. However, the exact actuation force for the U4T is unknown, which means we cannot directly compare it. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T has a bottom out force of 65 grams, classified as medium-heavy. Since the bottom out force of the Outemu Purple is unavailable, it is unclear how it would compare to the U4T in that aspect. Overall, the Outemu Purple is positioned as the lighter choice based on its known actuation force, which may be more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Gazzew U4T offers a heavier feel that could provide a more substantial tactile experience for those who prefer a stronger push.

Travel distance

Both the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have identical travel distances, measuring 4 mm from top to bottom. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel, leading to similar tactile feedback and overall performance. With these specifications being equal, users can expect a consistent keypress experience regardless of which switch they choose.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Purple switch is notably less characterized than the Gazzew U4T switch, which stands out for its unique acoustic qualities. The U4T is known for producing a bassy sound profile coupled with a thocky resonance. This results in a deeper, richer auditory experience, akin to a soft "knock" or "thud." With every keystroke, the U4T delivers a satisfying auditory feedback that can truly enhance the typing experience. In contrast, without specific descriptors for the Purple switch, it is unclear how its sound quality measures up to the U4T, but we can infer it lacks the same depth and richness.

When it comes to feel, the Gazzew U4T excels in providing a sharp tactile sensation during each key press. Its distinct tactile bump offers high feedback intensity, ensuring that users can easily feel the actuation point with clarity. The strength and crispness of the tactile response contribute to a more engaging typing experience. In comparison, the Outemu Purple switch does not have available information about its tactile qualities, so we cannot ascertain how it may compare in terms of tactile feedback; however, it doesn’t appear to offer the same pronounced tactile characteristics as the U4T.

Overall, while the Gazzew U4T switch provides a rich sound profile and a sharp tactile feel, the qualities of the Outemu Purple remain undefined. Therefore, if you’re looking for an immersive and satisfying typing experience that resonates both audibly and tangibly, the U4T is undoubtedly a more compelling choice. The lack of information on the Purple suggests that it may not deliver the same level of satisfaction, leaving potential users wanting more clarity on its performance. If sound and tactile feedback are essential components for you, the U4T clearly stands out.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between Outemu Purple and Gazzew U4T tactile switches largely depends on your personal preferences for both sound and feel, as well as the typing experience you seek. If you prefer a switch that delivers a satisfying auditory experience with a bassy, thocky sound profile and pronounced tactile feedback, the Gazzew U4T may be your ideal option. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams adds a level of weight that can enhance your sense of control while typing, making it particularly well-suited for those who enjoy a more deliberate typing experience. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter, more traditional tactile switch and seek a more subdued keystroke experience, then the Outemu Purple may be a better fit, provided you appreciate a softer feedback without the robust response of the U4T. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing preferences, whether that's a satisfying thocky sound with a sharper tactile feel or a more gentle, understated approach to key presses. Take the time to try both switches if you can, as firsthand experience is invaluable in determining which switch truly resonates with your style.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Purple Tactile

$3.10 per 10

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Gazzew U4T Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more