Huano Acacia vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the Huano Acacia and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Acacia and KTT Grapefruit both present compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a linear switch experience. The Huano Acacia is celebrated for its medium-light weight, generous factory lubrication, and minimal stem wobble, resulting in a remarkable typing experience right out of the box. Its ease of use makes it a great choice for those who prioritize comfort and smooth operation in their typing. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit offers a distinct sensory experience with its soft and light key feel, complemented by a low-pitched, neutral sound profile that provides a polished auditory feedback. This switch can be particularly appealing for users who appreciate a balanced and refined tactile experience while enjoying the nuances of sound. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Huano Acacia and the KTT Grapefruit switches share a considerable degree of similarity, with both featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The use of polycarbonate for the top housing in both switches results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the material's stiffness, which creates a clear and resonant audio experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced visual effects when RGB lighting is applied, making both switches aesthetically appealing. Consequently, users can expect a consistent auditory and visual performance with both the Acacia and Grapefruit when utilizing RGB lighting.
In contrast, the disparity in sound profiles can be found within the bottom housings of these switches. Both the Acacia and Grapefruit utilize nylon for their bottoms, which is known for its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder materials. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile—one that is described as duller and rounder. While both switches produce a softer sound during typing, the nylon bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and the feel of the switches when pressed down. Therefore, while the top housing of both switches may yield a similar sound quality revolution through the properties of polycarbonate, the bottom housing—through the characteristics of nylon—introduces a contrasting warmth and depth to the overall auditory experience.
Ultimately, as the top and bottom housings differ between the two switches, the impact each housing material has on the sound can lead to varied auditory results. The polycarbonate top contributes to the clarity and brightness, particularly during the release of a key, whereas the nylon bottom shapes the overall depth and impact of a keystroke. Users can maintain consistent performance in auditory quality between the two models by recognizing that while the top housings deliver a sharpness typical of polycarbonate, the nylon bottom provides a fullness that complements the overall sound profile, resulting in a dynamic and enjoyable typing experience in both the Huano Acacia and KTT Grapefruit switches.
Weight
The Huano Acacia linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch both present a similar actuation force of 45 grams, making them equal in this aspect, which can lead to comparable typing experiences favored by those who prefer a lighter touch. However, their bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Acacia at 55 grams and the Grapefruit at 53 grams. This means that while both switches are designed to be comfortable for prolonged use, the Acacia's heavier bottom out force may provide a slightly more substantial feel compared to the Grapefruit. Overall, both switches are medium-light, catering to users looking for a balance between ease of actuation and tactile feedback, but the Acacia is marginally heavier in the bottom out phase, which may appeal more to typists seeking a more pronounced push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Acacia linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Acacia has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Grapefruit features a travel distance of 4 mm, positioning it as the longer switch. This difference can significantly impact your typing or gaming experience. If you prefer a more responsive feel with quicker actuation, the Acacia could be the better choice; however, it may feel somewhat abrupt for those who enjoy a deeper keystroke. Conversely, the Grapefruit's longer travel distance provides a more pronounced depth that some users find comforting and satisfying. Ultimately, your preference will guide which switch suits your style best, as the varying travel distances can lead to notably different performances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Huano Acacia comes in at $3.39, whereas the KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41.
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
In terms of sound, the Huano Acacia linear switch offers a balanced auditory experience that is designed to be unobtrusive, making it suitable for both office and home environments. While a specific sound profile isn't detailed, the generous factory lubrication likely contributes to a muted and pleasant keystroke, ensuring that it won't be disruptive during use. In contrast, the KTT Grapefruit features a distinctive low-pitched sound that leans towards a bass-heavy and mellow tone, potentially providing a more satisfying auditory feedback for users who appreciate deeper sounds. The neutrality of the Grapefruit's sound profile makes it versatile enough for varied contexts, whether casual typing or more intense gaming sessions.
When it comes to feel, the Huano Acacia offers a notable experience characterized by medium-light weight and minimal stem wobble, contributing to a reliable and satisfying keystroke. This combination allows for a consistent typing experience right out of the box, catering to a range of users from beginners to more seasoned typists. The KTT Grapefruit, on the other hand, boasts a polished feel with a soft and light typing experience that emphasizes smooth key travel. This refined finish reduces friction effectively, enhancing the overall typing comfort and fluidity. The tactile quality of the Grapefruit could appeal to jaded typists seeking a more luxurious typing interaction.
In summary, while both the Huano Acacia and KTT Grapefruit linear switches provide enjoyable typing experiences, they cater to slightly different preferences. The Acacia excels with its balanced sound and reliable feel, making it great for everyday use. The Grapefruit impresses with its lower-pitched sound profile and polished sensation that enhances typing fluidity. Ultimately, both switches offer robust experiences, so your choice will depend on your auditory and tactile preferences, with potential for a satisfying performance from either option.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended usage. If you prioritize a smooth and refined typing experience right out of the box, the Acacia is an excellent choice. Its 55-gram bottom-out force strikes a balance that many typists appreciate, especially those who prefer a responsive feel with minimal stem wobble. This switch is particularly suited for all-day typing sessions, whether you’re at work or gaming, as it delivers a reliable, pleasant sound that won’t overwhelm your surroundings. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to a lighter, softer typing experience with a unique sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit switch might be more to your liking. With its 53-gram actuation force and low-pitched, mellow tone, it offers a fresh take on linear switches, providing a polished feel that can enhance both casual typing and gaming. Ultimately, both switches feature medium-light actuation forces and some distinct characteristics; your choice should reflect your typing style and the environments in which you plan to use your keyboard.
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