Huano Grape Orange vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the Huano Grape Orange and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up are the Huano Grape Orange and the KTT Kang White, both of which are linear switches designed for a smooth typing experience. The Grape Orange is celebrated for its ultra-light 40g actuation force, making it exceptionally effortless to type on, which is especially beneficial for those long typing sessions where comfort is paramount. In contrast, the KTT Kang White offers a unique auditory experience with its low-pitched typing sound, complemented by its self-lubricating materials that promote remarkable smoothness with every keystroke. While the Grape Orange excels in weight and comfort, the Kang White shines in acoustic satisfaction and tactile fluidity. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Huano Grape Orange and the KTT Kang White both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which contributes to a similar auditory experience characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate promotes resonance and clarity, making it an ideal choice for switch housings, particularly when RGB lighting is involved. This translucency allows the light to demonstrate its full potential, enhancing aesthetic appeal as well as sound quality. Therefore, users can expect consistent performance in terms of sound clarity and visual elements from both switches thanks to their identical top housing material.
In stark contrast, the bottom housing materials differ between the two switches. Both the Huano Grape Orange and the KTT Kang White feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which significantly influences the overall sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer qualities, providing a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This material absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a rounder and duller auditory experience. Because of this, users will notice that both switches offer a rich typing feel attributed to the nylon bottom while the sound characteristics will be secondary to the sharpness imparted by the polycarbonate top.
Combining the characteristics of both switches reveals a complementary relationship between the materials used. The Grape Orange’s polycarbonate top produces a crisp sound during keystroke release, while the nylon bottom generates a warmer sound profile when the key bottoms out. This synergy results in a unique typing experience that combines the best elements of both sound profiles. Consequently, while both switches feature the same type of top housing and the same type of bottom housing, they collectively provide a dual-layered sound experience: clarity when pressing a key and depth upon its release. Users can expect an overall harmonious sound experience from both models due to this consistent material usage in both the top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The Huano Grape Orange features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for long typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the KTT Kang White has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. This means that while the Grape Orange is better for extended use due to its lighter feel, the Kang White may provide a more tactile experience for users who favor a firmer push. Overall, if one prefers a lightweight switch, the Huano Grape Orange is the ideal choice, whereas the KTT Kang White offers a medium level of resistance, catering to those who prefer a heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch differ, with the Grape Orange measuring 3.6 mm and the Kang White at 4 mm. This means that the Grape Orange offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Kang White, making it potentially more responsive for users who favor quick key presses, such as gamers. Conversely, the Kang White's longer 4 mm travel distance provides a more substantial feel, which may appeal to users who prefer a deeper key press for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will hinge on individual preferences for responsiveness versus key depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 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
When it comes to sound, the Huano Grape Orange switch does not have specific auditory characteristics detailed, meaning its sound profile remains somewhat ambiguous. In contrast, the KTT Kang White switch delivers a low-pitched tone, which provides a rich, bass-heavy sound that many users find satisfying. Additionally, the Kang White is noted for having a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for various environments, whether for casual use at home or during focused work sessions. Therefore, while the Grape Orange’s acoustic qualities are less defined, the Kang White’s pronounced sound characteristics make it a more decisive choice for those who prioritize auditory feedback in their typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Grape Orange switch is distinguished by its ultra-low actuation force of 40g, which gives it a light and effortless typing experience, making it particularly suited for long typing sessions without fatigue. The Kang White, although it does not have a specific weight or actuation force mentioned, is known for its smoothness, attributed to its self-lubricating material. This results in a pleasant and uninterrupted typing experience, making it appealing for users who appreciate a gliding motion in their keystrokes. While the Grape Orange emphasizes a lighter touch, the Kang White focuses on luxurious smoothness, catering to different preferences within the linear switch category.
In conclusion, both the Huano Grape Orange and KTT Kang White switches cater to distinct user preferences while offering a linear switch experience. The Grape Orange's exceptionally light feel facilitates extended typing comfort, while the Kang White excels in its auditory appeal and buttery smoothness. If you prioritize effortless typing, the Grape Orange is an excellent choice, whereas if you seek a more enriched acoustic vibe paired with a luxurious glide, the Kang White would likely delight you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value a light actuation or a smooth and captivating typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Huano Grape Orange and KTT Kang White linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience, especially for extended sessions, the Grape Orange switch is your best bet with its ultra-low 40g actuation force and a bottom-out force of just 50 grams. This makes it ideal for those who value a smooth, low-resistance feel without the fatigue that can accompany heavier switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium resistance that provides a balanced typing experience with a bit more feedback, the Kang White switch, with its 58 grams bottom-out force, will cater to your needs. The Kang White is also characterized by its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in the office. Additionally, its self-lubricating material ensures a consistently smooth typing experience. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with your typing style, sound preferences, and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard to make the most informed choice.