Bsun Pine vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The BSUN Pine mechanical keyboard switch is renowned for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing a direct and no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switch offers a unique soft and light typing feel with a distinct sound profile. The Pine switch is best suited for those who appreciate invigorating and snappy tactility, while the Grapefruit switch is perfect for users looking for a low-pitched and polished typing experience. However, let's delve deeper beyond these general characteristics to help you make the best decision on which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the Bsun Pine and the KTT Grapefruit lies in their housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. In terms of aesthetics, the clear housing of polycarbonate is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. However, where they diverge is in their nylon bottom housing. The Pine uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate.
While the top housing of the Bsun Pine and KTT Grapefruit is made from the same material, their bottom housing sets them apart. The Pine's nylon bottom housing offers a different typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Grapefruit's nylon bottom housing provides a similar typing experience, allowing for a more muted and rounder sound. The split between the two housing materials impacts the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing of a switch has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Pine and KTT Grapefruit utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper and more resonant sound profile. However, the difference lies in their nylon bottom housing, with the Pine offering a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Grapefruit's more muted tone. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of sound profile desired. Both switches have their unique qualities and characteristics that cater to different typing experiences.
Weight
Both the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch have an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a similar initial typing sensation for users. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Bsun Pine has a heavier force of 65 grams compared to the KTT Grapefruit's 53 grams, making typing on the Pine switch a more substantial and tactile experience. The lighter bottom out force on the Grapefruit switch may appeal to users who prefer a softer and more gentle typing experience, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force on the Pine switch may be preferred by users who enjoy a more pronounced and satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the user's personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Pine offers a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance, making it a favorite among gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Grapefruit provides a bit more depth to each keystroke, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing or gaming style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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 BSUN Pine switches are often described as having a sharp and crisp sound profile, with a distinct clicky noise that can be satisfying for those who enjoy audible feedback while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switches offer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more subtle and mellow typing experience that may be preferred in quieter environments. Both switches can provide an enjoyable auditory experience, but the Pine may be more suitable for those who prefer a louder and more pronounced typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Pine switches are known for their accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feedback. These qualities create a dynamic typing sensation with a prominent tactile bump that ensures each keypress is felt distinctly. In contrast, the KTT Grapefruit switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience that reduces friction and provides a sleek key travel. While the Pine switches focus on delivering a more intense tactile feedback, the Grapefruit switches prioritize a smoother and more consistent typing feel that may appeal to those seeking a more fluid typing experience.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Pine switch excels in providing a sharp and audible typing experience with its pronounced tactile feedback, while the Grapefruit switch prioritizes a smoother and more polished feel that enhances key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. However, it is important to note that both switches are designed to deliver a satisfying typing experience and can be suitable options for newcomers looking to explore different mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, the Pine switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer and lighter typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Grapefruit switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for. Consider trying out both switches to see which one suits your typing style best.
Mentioned in this article
