KTT Darling vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Darling and the KTT Grapefruit mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that both offer unique typing experiences. The Darling, a linear switch, stands out for its chewy and substantial feel, providing a bouncy and springy responsiveness with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Grapefruit offers a softer and lighter typing sensation, accompanied by a deep yet polished sound profile. While the Darling is described as 'bouncy,' 'clacky,' and 'high-pitched,' the Grapefruit is labeled as 'low-pitched,' 'neutral,' and 'polished.' Ultimately, both switches have their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the KTT Grapefruit, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. The similarities in top housing material suggest that users can expect similar sound characteristics and visual effects from both the Darling and Grapefruit switches.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Darling and Grapefruit switches differs as the Darling features a nylon bottom housing while the Grapefruit utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Darling produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Grapefruit's polycarbonate bottom housing may result in a crisper and more resonant sound. This distinction in bottom housing material may impact the overall typing experience and sound output of each switch.
In terms of typing experience, the combination of different housing materials in the Darling and Grapefruit switches influences the sound and feel when typing. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, will affect the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. Conversely, the top housing material, predominantly polycarbonate for both switches, will influence the sound when releasing a key. Understanding these differences in housing materials can help users make informed choices based on their preferred sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch have identical actuation and bottom out forces, both having an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making them medium-light switches. This means that users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of the force required to press the keys. Some may prefer these switches for longer typing sessions or gaming due to the lighter weight, which reduces fatigue. However, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may find switches with heavier forces more suitable. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of the Darling and Grapefruit switches offer a balance between ease of use and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Darling linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the travel distance of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is 4 mm. In this case, the Grapefruit switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Darling switch. A 0.5 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in how the keys feel when typing or gaming. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Darling switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press might opt for the Grapefruit switch. Overall, both switches offer different travel distances to cater to different preferences, and selecting one over the other would depend on the individual's typing or gaming style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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
The KTT Darling linear switch is known for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, accompanied by a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. Acoustically, the Darling delivers a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, providing a blend of tactile and auditory feedback that can be described as clacky and high-pitched. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch offers a soft and light typing feel with a unique "baritone" sound profile that is not quite bassy. The Grapefruit switch is characterized by its low-pitched and neutral sound, providing a more mellow tone compared to the higher-pitched Darling. When it comes to feel, the Darling is noted for its bouncy feedback, while the Grapefruit offers a polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, the Darling and Grapefruit switches offer distinct typing experiences with their own unique sound profiles and tactile feedback, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched sound, the KTT Darling may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a soft and light typing feel with a baritone sound profile and a polished finish for smooth key travel, the KTT Grapefruit switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
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