Huano Grape Orange vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Huano Grape Orange and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Grape Orange and the KTT Mint both offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Grape Orange switch is renowned for its exceptionally light actuation force of just 40g, making it an ideal choice for those who value effortless keystrokes, particularly during extended typing sessions. This linear switch allows for rapid inputs without the strain, appealing to gamers and typists alike who appreciate a smooth glide. In contrast, the KTT Mint switch features a long pole stem that delivers a satisfyingly smooth linear feel, complemented by a poppy thockiness that can enhance the auditory experience of typing. It strikes a balance with its light and fleeting type feel, categorized as low-pitched and polished, making it a suitable option for users who enjoy a subtle yet responsive feedback with each keystroke. While both switches excel in providing smooth and enjoyable typing experiences, they cater to different tactile preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Huano Grape Orange and KTT Mint both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which establishes a significant similarity in the sound profile and aesthetic appeal of the two switches. Polycarbonate, being a relatively stiff plastic, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This shared material choice enhances resonance, allowing both switches to deliver a clean auditory experience that makes them well-suited for RGB lighting setups. The translucence of polycarbonate allows for vibrant lighting effects to shine through, ensuring that users of both switches can enjoy a visually striking interface when incorporated into their keyboards.
In contrast, the bottom housing for both the Grape Orange and KTT Mint employs nylon, which leads to the production of a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon’s unique characteristics, stemming from its relatively softer nature, enable it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic quality compared to its polycarbonate counterpart. This difference in material influences the overall typing experience; while the top housing contributes to the sound made when releasing a key, the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel during actuation. Consequently, the sound dynamics differ when pressed versus released, providing a nuanced auditory profile that is distinct yet complementary.
Thus, the combination of materials in the Grape Orange and KTT Mint offers a balanced auditory experience, where the high-pitched clarity of the polycarbonate top is matched with the rich, rounded tones of the nylon bottom. Users can expect a cohesive performance in terms of sound, where the combined materials create a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches exemplify how variations in housing materials can influence sound profiles while serving a similar purpose, ensuring that enthusiasts appreciate the distinctive attributes without sacrificing the overall synergy that these combinations can produce.
Weight
The Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch differ in both actuation force and bottom out force, giving users distinct feel experiences. The Grape Orange has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Mint's 45 grams, making it easier to press and suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming—ideal for users who prefer less strain on their fingers. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Grape Orange is 50 grams, which is also lighter than the Mint's 53 grams. This slight difference in bottom out force suggests that the Grape Orange is more forgiving during sustained keystrokes. Therefore, for those who favor a lighter switch with less resistance for a more comfortable experience during prolonged use, the Huano Grape Orange would be the better choice. In contrast, the KTT Mint offers a slightly heavier feel, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a firmer push when keystrokes are fully engaged.
Travel distance
The Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch differ in travel distance, with the Grape Orange measuring 3.6 mm and the Mint at 4.0 mm. This means that the Grape Orange offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Mint, making it potentially more suitable for gamers seeking quicker response times, as shorter distances can enhance speed and efficiency during rapid keystrokes. In contrast, the KTT Mint’s longer travel distance may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced feel when pressing down on keys, offering a more substantial experience that some may find less abrupt. Overall, while the Grape Orange delivers a snappier performance, the Mint provides a deeper, more tactile engagement, catering to different preferences in typing and gaming experiences.
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 Mint comes in at $2.91 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 linear switch is notably silent, catering to those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. This makes it an ideal choice for office environments or shared spaces where noise could be distracting. In contrast, the KTT Mint linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile characterized as more bass-heavy and mellow. This gives the Mint a rich auditory feel, complemented by its neutral tonal quality, making it versatile for various typing scenarios, whether at home or in a more professional atmosphere. Overall, while the Grape Orange remains quietly unobtrusive in its acoustics, the Mint provides a satisfying depth that can enhance the typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Grape Orange switch is renowned for its exceptionally light actuation force of just 40g, providing an effortless typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during prolonged use. This makes it particularly appealing for users who prioritize speed and comfort. On the other hand, the KTT Mint boasts a mild feel, granting a gentle typing experience that is accessible to nearly everyone. Additionally, its polished finish contributes to a smooth and refined key travel, leading to a pleasurable tactile sensation. While both switches deliver a level of comfort, the Grape Orange focuses on a lightweight operation, whereas the Mint emphasizes a smoother feel with a touch of enhanced feedback.
In conclusion, both the Huano Grape Orange and KTT Mint linear switches cater to different preferences and styles in mechanical keyboard usage. The Grape Orange excels in creating a silent and effortlessly lightweight typing environment perfect for long sessions, while the Mint intrigues with its deeper sound profile and polished feel for those seeking a smoother typing experience. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference, but both will provide enjoyable typing results, making them strong contenders in the world of linear switches.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch largely depends on your personal typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you’re someone who enjoys typing for extended periods and values an ultra-light and effortless feel, the Grape Orange’s 40g actuation force will surely enhance your comfort during long sessions. It’s particularly suitable for users who prioritize speed and lightness, making it a top choice for fast typists or those who prefer a less tactile experience. On the other hand, if you appreciate a bit more resistance for a more controlled typing feel, the KTT Mint with its 53g bottom-out force may be the better option for you. The Mint provides a satisfying poppy thockiness thanks to its long pole stem, which can make your typing experience more enjoyable, especially if you prefer a polished and mild feel. Its low-pitched sound profile makes it versatile for both home and work environments without drawing too much attention. Ultimately, your decision should reflect how you envision your keyboard experience—whether you lean towards lightweight and speedy typing with the Grape Orange or a smooth, refined feel with the Mint.
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