TTC Gold Silver vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver and KTT Grapefruit mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique benefits for different preferences. The Gold Silver is celebrated for its rapid responsiveness, providing a satisfying bottom-out with each keystroke and a resonant sound signature that signifies quick action. On the other hand, the Grapefruit switches offer a soft and light touch with a subtle deep sound profile, making them ideal for those who prefer a low-pitched and polished typing experience. While the Gold Silver excels in speed, sound, and fluidity, the Grapefruit switches stand out for their unique feel and sound. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.40 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
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
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the KTT Grapefruit, particularly the polycarbonate top housing, share many similarities in terms of sound profile. Both switches use polycarbonate in their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate is a common feature in switches with clear housings, emphasizing its importance in enhancing the overall look of the switch.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Gold Silver uses a nylon bottom housing, while the Grapefruit also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that is distinct from the sharper sound profile created by the polycarbonate top housing. Despite both switches sharing the same bottom housing material, the slight differences in manufacturing and design may lead to variations in sound and feel when typing on each switch.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the TTC Gold Silver and KTT Grapefruit switches highlights the importance of housing materials in influencing sound profiles and typing experiences. While the similarities in the polycarbonate top housing result in comparable sound characteristics, the differences in the nylon bottom housing material may lead to varying levels of depth and fullness in sound. Understanding the unique qualities of each housing material is crucial in selecting the right switch for your specific typing preferences and needs.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Silver switch has an unknown weight while the Grapefruit switch has a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams. The Gold Silver switch is lighter in terms of bottom out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the Grapefruit switch offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Both switches offer similar actuation forces, so users can expect comparable results in terms of keystroke activation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Gold Silver switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Grapefruit switch, making it preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Grapefruit switch provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Silver being on the shorter end and the Grapefruit being on the longer end. In terms of overall performance, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference for travel distance when typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver 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 Silver 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 Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switch offers a more neutral and low-pitched sound, delivering a mellow and bass-heavy tone. Both switches offer a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various settings, whether it be at home or in a professional environment.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch is praised for its polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience, showcasing a smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall typing feel. In comparison, the KTT Grapefruit switch is also described as polished, suggesting a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a gentle and approachable typing experience that is suited for a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch excels in providing a rapid and responsive typing experience with a thocky sound profile and polished feel that emphasizes fluidity and precision in each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch offers a soft and light feel with a low-pitched sound profile, showcasing a unique typing experience that marries comfort with a mellower tone. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can achieve similar levels of satisfaction regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Silver linear switch or the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, a solid bottom-out, and a resonant sound signature, the TTC Gold Silver may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer and lighter typing feel with a unique sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit switch might be the more suitable choice. Both switches offer their own set of characteristics and it ultimately comes down to personal preference when making a decision.
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