Gateron Aliaz vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices are the Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, and the KTT Grapefruit, a linear switch. The Aliaz switch is ideal for quiet environments such as the office, as it boasts a silent design. With a medium-heavy weight and a substantial feel to each keystroke, the Aliaz switch is perfect for those who prefer a more pronounced typing feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switch stands out for its unique qualities. These linear switches offer a soft and light typing feel, accompanied by a "baritone" sound profile. While the Aliaz switch is categorized as 'Silky', 'Muted', 'Polished', the Grapefruit switch is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Polished'. If you're trying to decide between the two, consider these general pointers; 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and KTT Grapefruit switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, these switches offer more clear and resonant sound profiles compared to softer plastics. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. While both switches have similar top housings, the differentiation lies in their bottom housings.
On the other hand, the Aliaz switch features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the KTT Grapefruit switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than polycarbonate. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. The use of different bottom housing materials in these switches allows for a unique typing experience, with the qualities of each material impacting the overall sound and feel of the switch.
In terms of performance, the qualities of the housing materials for the Gateron Aliaz and KTT Grapefruit switches are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing material will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles based on the materials used in their construction.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences in weight. The Aliaz is the heavier of the two, with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams. On the other hand, the Grapefruit is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. The Aliaz offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Grapefruit provides a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer a different tactile feedback experience, with the Aliaz requiring a higher force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Grapefruit. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same level of key travel. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer a similar typing experience, with neither being shorter or longer than the other. As a result, whether you choose the Aliaz or Grapefruit switch, you can expect to receive comparable results in terms of key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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 Gateron Aliaz tactile switch offers a muted sound profile, ensuring a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular mechanical switches. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch provides a low-pitched sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, contributing to a unique auditory feedback. Both switches offer a quiet typing experience, but the Grapefruit switch adds a deeper undertone to the sound, giving it a distinct characteristic.
When it comes to feel, the Aliaz switch boasts a silky and polished typing experience, offering smooth key travel and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Similarly, the KTT Grapefruit switch also provides a polished feel, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches prioritize a refined typing experience, enhancing overall comfort and precision during typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch each offer distinct subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Aliaz switch excels in providing a medium-heavy weight and a substantial typing feedback in a quiet environment, the Grapefruit switch stands out with its unique "baritone" sound profile and light type feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a heavy bottom out force and a quiet typing experience, the Gateron Aliaz switches are the way to go. These switches provide a substantial feel to each keystroke, making them perfect for those who prefer a more pronounced typing feedback without the noise, especially in office settings. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a lighter bottom out force and a unique sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit switches are a great choice. These switches offer a soft and light typing feel, along with a special "baritone" sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.
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