Huano Grape Orange vs. KTT Grapefruit

Overview

When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Grape Orange and the KTT Grapefruit both offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Grape Orange switches are celebrated for their exceptionally light actuation force of just 40g, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience that can make marathon typing sessions feel less strenuous. This makes them an excellent choice for writers or gamers who prioritize speed and comfort. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit switches deliver a soft and light feel with a unique "baritone" sound profile, which adds a pleasant auditory experience while typing. This combination of a smooth action and a nuanced sound can appeal to users who value both tactile and auditory feedback. While both switches are linear and designed for simplicity, their distinct characteristics cater to varied typing styles and 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

Huano Grape Orange Linear

KTT Grapefruit Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$3.41 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of both the Huano Grape Orange and the KTT Grapefruit switches demonstrate considerable similarities that contribute to their performance and sound profile. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which enhances the crispness and clarity of sound due to polycarbonate's properties as a relatively stiff plastic. This shared top material ensures that users can expect a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, which is particularly beneficial for those who enjoy RGB lighting effects. The translucence of polycarbonate in the top housing not only promotes aesthetic appeal when illuminated but also showcases a uniformity in sound characteristics between the two switches when it comes to releasing keys.

In contrast, the bottom housings of the Grape Orange and KTT Grapefruit switches are made from nylon, a traditional material known for its sound-dampening qualities. Since nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs sound more effectively than its harder counterparts, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material choice in the bottom housing plays a crucial role during the key press, as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel. As a result, while both switches use polycarbonate and nylon in their respective top and bottom housings, the combination of these materials results in a unique performance aspect, emphasizing the broader sound experience when typing.

Ultimately, while the Grape Orange and KTT Grapefruit share identical materials for both their top and bottom housings, the way these materials interact with each other defines their overall sound and feel. The polycarbonate top housing enhances the initial key release with its crisp sound, while the nylon bottom housing provides a rounded, muted response at the bottom of each key press. Therefore, despite the similarities in materials, the variance in their impact—top versus bottom—leads to a nuanced typing experience that combines clarity and depth, appealing to a wide range of keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Grape Orange features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which makes it suitable for prolonged typing sessions, appealing to users who prefer a softer touch. In contrast, the Grapefruit has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, classified as medium-light, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who appreciate a stronger push. As such, users looking for a lighter feel should gravitate toward the Huano Grape Orange, while those attracted to a firmer touch might prefer the KTT Grapefruit. Both switches exhibit comparable bottom out forces, but the Grape Orange remains the lighter option overall.

Travel distance

The Huano Grape Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Grapefruit linear switch offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means the Grape Orange provides a more responsive feel, which can be preferable for gamers seeking faster response times; however, some may find this shorter distance too abrupt and may favor the more pronounced depth of the Grapefruit's travel. Ultimately, the Grape Orange's 3.6 mm is shorter compared to the Grapefruit's 4 mm, making it more aligned with the recent trend towards shorter travel distances for better speed. For those who value a hearty depth in their keystrokes, the KTT Grapefruit would be the more suitable choice.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Huano Grape Orange switch remains unspecified, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons. In contrast, the KTT Grapefruit switch offers a distinct low-pitched tone that leans towards a mellow and bass-heavy sound. This deep sound profile gives the Grapefruit a unique auditory presence, while its neutral characteristics make it versatile for various typing environments, whether at home or in an office setting. Ultimately, your choice of keyboard, materials, and keycaps can further influence the final sound profile, adding another layer of customization to your typing experience.

When it comes to feel, the Grape Orange switch is noted for providing an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience, thanks to its ultra-low 40g actuation force. This makes it ideal for extended typing sessions, as it requires minimal effort to press the keys. The KTT Grapefruit, on the other hand, is described as polished, delivering a smooth and refined typing experience. This quality minimizes friction, which can enhance the overall feel. Both switches are designed to make typing comfortable, but while the Grape Orange focuses on lightness, the Grapefruit complements this with a polished touch.

In summary, while the Huano Grape Orange and KTT Grapefruit have distinct characteristics, they also embody qualities that can cater to similar preferences. The Grape Orange is excellent for those who prioritize an effortless and light touch, perfect for long typing sessions. Meanwhile, the Grapefruit offers a polished and smooth feel along with a low-pitched sound profile, which may appeal to users looking for a more refined auditory experience. Both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, but your choice will ultimately depend on whether you value the light actuating force or a polished feel in your keyboard.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, your specific needs and preferences will greatly guide your choice. If you prioritize a feather-light typing experience for extensive hours of use, the Grape Orange is the switch for you, thanks to its ultra-light 40g actuation force and a bottom-out force of just 50 grams. This makes it an excellent option for those who engage in prolonged typing without experiencing fatigue. On the other hand, if you seek a balance between lightness and a slightly firmer feel, the KTT Grapefruit, with its 53-gram bottom-out force and polished finish, provides a smooth and refined typing experience. The Grapefruit's low-pitched sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element, making it suitable for both work environments and casual gaming. In essence, if you favor a softer touch with a mellow sound, opt for the Grapefruit; conversely, if effortless key presses are your main goal, the Grape Orange will serve you well. Ultimately, your choice should align with what you find most comfortable and satisfying in your typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

KTT Grapefruit Linear

$3.41 per 10

Learn more