HC Studio Crabapple vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Grapefruit are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, yet they offer distinct experiences for the user. The Crabapple, crafted entirely from POM, provides an effortlessly frictionless typing journey with a dry smoothness and subtle texture felt with each downstroke. Its sound signature is mild and understated, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Grapefruit switches from KTT showcase a soft and light type feel with a low-pitched, neutral sound profile. Their polished feel and "baritone" sound add a unique touch to the typing experience. While both switches offer their own set of unique features, such as frictionless typing with the Crabapple and a polished feel with the Grapefruit, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Grapefruit feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Crabapple's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Grapefruit's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing experience for users, with the Crabapple providing a more subtle typing experience compared to the Grapefruit's more pronounced sound.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Crabapple utilizes POM, which again leads to a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted. On the other hand, the Grapefruit's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This means that typing on the Grapefruit may feel different compared to the Crabapple, as the sound and feel of the switch will be influenced by the bottom housing material.
While the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the KTT Grapefruit differ in terms of POM and polycarbonate for the top housing, as well as POM and nylon for the bottom housing, they both offer unique and satisfying typing experiences. This means that while the sound profiles may vary between the two switches, users can still expect quality and satisfying performance from both the Crabapple and the Grapefruit, albeit with some differences in sound and feel.
Weight
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is lighter in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Grapefruit linear switch. The Crabapple requires 37 grams of force to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the Grapefruit switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option. The Crabapple would be ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Grapefruit switch would cater to those who prefer a slightly stronger push feel for a more substantial typing feedback. Overall, the Crabapple switch provides a lighter typing experience, while the Grapefruit switch offers a slightly heavier but still relatively light feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the KTT Grapefruit switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the HC Studio Crabapple switch. The HC Studio Crabapple switch offers a shorter distance, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switch, with its longer travel distance, may be more suitable for those who prefer a deeper key press feel. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HC Studio Crabapple has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crabapple for $4.70.
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 Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued and mild sound that is understated and smooth, providing a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Grapefruit linear switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, giving off a deep and mellow tone suitable for various environments. Both switches offer different sound qualities, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a quieter or more impactful typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Crabapple linear switch boasts a frictionless and mild typing experience with a subtle texture felt on each key press. It offers a smooth and effortless journey for the fingers, minimizing any resistance or friction when typing. In contrast, the Grapefruit linear switch is described as polished, providing a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Each switch offers a unique tactile feel, catering to users who prefer either a smooth or slightly textured typing sensation.
Overall, while the Crabapple and Grapefruit linear switches differ in sound and feel qualities, both provide a premium typing experience tailored to individual preferences. Whether one prefers a subdued and frictionless typing journey with the Crabapple switch or a low-pitched and polished feel with the Grapefruit switch, both options offer distinct characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for sound and feel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, you should consider the bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing experience that best suits your preferences. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a frictionless, mild typing experience with a subdued sound profile, the Crabapple switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force, a polished typing feel, and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile, then the Grapefruit switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and typing style.
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