Kailh Box Royal vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Grapefruit. The Box Royal is well-known for its unbeatable tactility, providing a sharp and binary sensation with every keystroke. If you prefer an almost aggressive level of tactility, these switches are the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you're drawn towards a softer and lighter typing experience, the KTT Grapefruit is worth considering. These linear switches offer a unique "tarty" feel and produce a deep yet polished sound profile. While these general pointers are helpful, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these broad descriptions so that you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Grapefruit switches are quite different. The Box Royal features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to its relatively softer plastic, the nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Grapefruit switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. This stiffer plastic leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches employ nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. As with the nylon top housing, the relatively softer plastic of the nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, while the top and bottom housings differ between the Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Grapefruit, they both contribute to a similar sound profile due to the shared use of nylon.
When it comes to the overall impact on the sound and feel of the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing play a significant role upon pressing down. The bottom housing's impact is more apparent in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the materials used in the top and bottom housings may differ, understanding their respective impacts can help users determine the desired sound and feel they seek in a switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. Firstly, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. This similarity ensures that users will achieve similar results in terms of sensitivity and responsiveness when typing or gaming. However, the bottom out force differs between the two switches. The Box Royal has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it heavier and providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Grapefruit has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, making it more suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience based on the weight of the actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Box Royal offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Grapefruit. A 4.0 mm travel distance is the most traditional and common measurement for switches, providing a balance between depth and speed. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, especially among gamers who prefer faster response times. If quick responsiveness is a priority, the shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm in the Box Royal may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt or lacking in depth. For those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel, the Grapefruit's longer travel distance of 4 mm may be more suitable. Overall, both options offer distinct travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for speed or depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25, 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
The Kailh Box Royal and KTT Grapefruit switches have distinct differences in sound and feel. The Box Royal switches have a high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This sound profile is suitable for those who prefer a more pronounced and intense auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Grapefruit switches have a low-pitched sound, which is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to the Box Royal. This creates a deeper and smoother tone, providing a more relaxed typing experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Box Royal switches are characterized by a sharp tactile bump. These switches provide a strong and distinct feedback intensity, allowing users to feel the tactile bump with each keypress. This makes the typing experience very tactile and satisfying. In contrast, the Grapefruit switches are described as being polished. This means that they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel make the Grapefruit switches feel smooth and effortless to use.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with an aggressive tactile feedback and a higher pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box Royal switches would be a suitable choice. Their sharp tactile bump and intense feedback make them perfect for users who prefer a highly tactile typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more mellow typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the KTT Grapefruit switches would be a better option. These switches offer a polished feel and a deeper sound profile. Both switches have their own unique qualities, and choosing between them ultimately depends on your personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are someone who highly values a strong and aggressive tactile feedback from your mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch would be the perfect choice for you. With its sharp and binary tactility, each keypress will give you a distinct and intense tactile bump. Additionally, if you prefer a higher-pitched sound profile, the Box Royal will provide a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you prefer a softer and lighter typing experience, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is the way to go. These switches showcase a gentle and smooth type feel, resulting in a polished and refined typing experience. Furthermore, if you prefer a lower-pitched sound profile with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, the Grapefruit switches will suit your preferences.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal and the KTT Grapefruit switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. Whether you prefer a strong and aggressive tactile feedback with a higher-pitched sound profile, or a softer and lighter typing experience with a lower-pitched sound profile, both switches offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience.
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