TTC Gold Red Pro vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch are both popular choices among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Gold Red Pro is admired for its versatility and ease of press, offering a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature. On the other hand, the Grapefruit switches stand out for their unique tarty feel and "baritone" sound profile. While the Gold Red Pro is more polished and subtle, the Grapefruit is known for its low-pitched and polished characteristics. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Grapefruit feature polycarbonate top housings, which create sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This material allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon bottom housings of both switches contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics to create a duller and rounder tone. Despite these differences in bottom housing material, both switches offer a unique typing experience with a combination of sharpness and depth in sound.
While the top housing of both the Gold Red Pro and Grapefruit switches is made of polycarbonate, providing a clear and crisp sound profile, the bottom housing material varies between the two. The Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper sound profile with a softer touch, while the Grapefruit's nylon bottom housing provides a similar experience in terms of sound. This difference in bottom housing material affects the overall sound and feel of each switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Despite these nuances, both switches ultimately offer a balance of sharpness and fullness in sound.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the TTC Gold Red Pro and KTT Grapefruit switches plays a significant role in shaping the typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the variation in bottom housing material leads to subtle differences in sound depth and feel. The nylon bottom housing of the Gold Red Pro emphasizes a softer and fuller sound, while the Grapefruit's nylon bottom housing provides a similar experience. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in each switch results in a unique and satisfying typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The Gold Red Pro has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Grapefruit's 45 grams, making the Gold Red Pro slightly easier to initiate a keystroke. However, the Gold Red Pro lacks information on its bottom out force, while the Grapefruit has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is considered medium-light. This means that the typing experience on the Grapefruit switch may feel more substantial and provide a more tactile feedback when fully pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the switches would depend on personal preference, with the Gold Red Pro being lighter in actuation force and the Grapefruit offering a more pronounced bottom out force for those seeking a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, the Gold Red Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Grapefruit has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may seem insignificant, but it can have a notable impact on typing or gaming experience. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Gold Red Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress feel may opt for the Grapefruit. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, making them suitable for various preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound that is satisfying and deep, making it suitable for a variety of environments. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch also provides a low-pitched sound profile, offering a mellow and deep tone that complements the light and soft typing experience it provides. Both switches feature a neutral sound profile, making them versatile options for different types of users. When it comes to feel, both switches are described as polished, resulting in a smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Gold Red Pro also offers a silky, mild, and subtle typing feel, while the Grapefruit provides a light and gentle typing experience. Overall, both switches present themselves as excellent choices for users looking for a versatile and pleasant typing experience, with the Gold Red Pro leaning slightly towards a subtler sound and feel, and the Grapefruit offering a lighter touch with a similar polished finish. Whether you choose the TTC Gold Red Pro or the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience that caters to various preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a switch with no bottom out force and a versatile, neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a unique low-pitched sound profile, the Grapefruit switch may be more suited to your tastes. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct benefits, so it really comes down to personal preference and what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and preferences for the best overall typing experience.
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