Durock Black Lotus vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Grapefruit. The Black Lotus is a linear switch that is renowned for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision. With reduced housing and stem wobble, typing on these switches is a pleasure. The 55g actuation weight provides a substantial but not overly hefty typing experience. Additionally, the unique light column offers in-switch lighting that can be fully removed. On the other hand, the Grapefruit switch from KTT offers a special experience. It is a linear switch with a soft and light feel, showcasing a "baritone" sound profile that is not quite bass deep. Categorized as low-pitched and neutral, the Grapefruit switch provides a polished typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Black Lotus and the KTT Grapefruit differ in their housing materials. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, while the Grapefruit utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. While both materials offer their own unique qualities, the modified PC and UPE Blend of the Black Lotus provides a premium and luxurious feel to the switches. On the other hand, polycarbonate in the Grapefruit's top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who prioritize sound clarity. Despite their differences, both options offer a satisfying typing experience, albeit with distinct characteristics.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Black Lotus and Grapefruit share the same material: nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that brings a deeper and fuller sound profile to the typing experience. Due to its relatively softer nature, nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This characteristic is present in both switches and contributes to a satisfying typing sound. The nylon bottom housing adds consistency and depth to the typing experience in both the Black Lotus and the Grapefruit.
While the top and bottom housings differ between the Durock Black Lotus and KTT Grapefruit, their impact on the overall typing experience is significant. The bottom housing has a more prominent influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, making the nylon bottom housing an essential component in both switches. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, as well as contributing to the overall aesthetics of the switch. Despite these differences, both switches provide a satisfying and premium typing experience, ensuring users will obtain similar results regardless of their choice between the Black Lotus and Grapefruit.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, we can see some noticeable differences. The Black Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it slightly heavier compared to the Grapefruit. On the other hand, the Grapefruit has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is lighter in comparison.
For those who prefer a lighter feel while typing, the Grapefruit switch would be a suitable choice as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and also has a lower bottom out force. This can be advantageous for individuals who aim for longer typing sessions or engage in extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Black Lotus provides a more substantial typing experience with its higher actuation and bottom out forces. This heavier force may be preferable for those who seek a stronger push feel when typing.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. If one prefers a lighter touch and aims for longer typing periods, the Grapefruit switch would be more suitable. On the other hand, if a stronger push sensation and a more substantial typing experience are desired, the Black Lotus switch would be the better option. However, it is important to note that both switches fall within the range of medium forces, so regardless of the choice, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the switch travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile experience when using these switches. Whether you choose the Durock Black Lotus or the KTT Grapefruit, you can be confident that the travel distance will be consistent and provide a satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Black Lotus for $4.57.
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 Durock Black Lotus linear switch is known to have an undefined sound profile, as specific details are not provided in the given information. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile. Low-pitched switches typically produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, to achieve similar sound results with either switch, it is recommended to consider these additional variables.
When it comes to the feel, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch is renowned for its silky, buttery, mild, and polished qualities. These descriptors indicate that the switch provides an exceptionally smooth, fluid, and gentle typing experience. The Black Lotus switch offers minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys, resulting in enhanced smoothness and reduced friction. Similarly, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that contributes to a sleek typing experience. Both switches are likely to offer reduced friction and smooth key travel, resulting in a satisfying typing sensation.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Durock Black Lotus and KTT Grapefruit linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While specific details regarding their sound profiles are not provided for the Black Lotus switch, it is known for its silky smooth feel, unparalleled precision, and a unique light column for in-switch lighting. On the other hand, the Grapefruit switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound profile and a polished finish. Both switches are likely to provide a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. With the available information, it is safe to say that these switches offer different experiences, but if the desired sound and feel outcomes align, similar results can be achieved with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider. If you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience and enjoy the unique light column feature, the Black Lotus may be the better choice for you. The Black Lotus offers a silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, with reduced wobble for maximum typing pleasure. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer and lighter typing experience with a deep sound profile, the Grapefruit switch could be the right fit. The Grapefruit switch is known for its tarty linear feel and "baritone" sound profile.
When it comes to sound, the Black Lotus switch has not been described, whereas the Grapefruit switch is known for its low-pitched, bass-heavy, and mellow tone. In terms of feel, both switches are described as polished, meaning they offer a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. However, the Black Lotus is also described as silky, buttery, mild, and polished, while the Grapefruit is solely described as polished.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference. If you enjoy a slightly heavier typing experience and appreciate the unique light column feature, the Black Lotus may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a softer and lighter typing experience with a deep sound profile, the Grapefruit switch could be the ideal choice. Consider your typing preferences and desired sound profile when making your decision.
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