Huano Grape Orange vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Huano Grape Orange and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often hinges on the subtle interplay of feel, sound, and actuation force, as exemplified by the Huano Grape Orange and the KTT Rose. The Grape Orange switches are celebrated for their ultra-light actuation force of just 40g, providing a remarkably smooth and effortless typing experience that is ideal for prolonged use without fatigue. This makes them a fantastic option for users who prioritize speed and comfort in their typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switches offer a visually appealing design complemented by their unique progressive springs, delivering a typing experience that is substantial yet not overly heavy. The result is a pleasant tactile feedback coupled with a low-pitched, bassy sound reminiscent of raindrops, adding a layer of auditory satisfaction to the typing experience. While both switches are linear and designed for smooth keystrokes, the choice between the extremely light Grape Orange and the more robust KTT Rose ultimately depends on personal typing preferences and desired sensory experiences. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in both the Huano Grape Orange and KTT Rose switches exhibit notable similarities, particularly in their top housings, both made from polycarbonate. The use of polycarbonate in both switches contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate’s characteristic stiffness, which enhances resonance and clarity in sound production. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate elevates the aesthetic appeal of both switches by allowing RGB lighting to shine through, amplifying the visual experience when in use. As such, users of either switch can expect similar auditory and visual results, particularly when it comes to sound clarity and illumination effects.
Contrasting the top housings, the bottom housings for both switches are made of nylon, a classic and favored material for switch construction. This choice brings a unique dimension to the overall sound profile of each switch. Unlike the polycarbonate top, which sharpens the sound, the nylon bottom housing contributes a deeper and fuller sound profile that is softer and more rounded. This is primarily because nylon has sound-absorbing properties that dampen higher frequencies, creating a more muted sound. Therefore, while the top housing keeps the auditory experience bright and clear, the bottom housing balances the sound with a deeper presence.
Together, the combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings results in switches with distinct yet complementary sound characteristics. The Grape Orange and KTT Rose will both produce a unique typing experience, highlighted by the clarity in their release sound from the polycarbonate top and the fullness in the bottom-out sound from the nylon bottom. Users can expect a harmonious blend of sharpness and depth, resulting in a well-rounded auditory experience that takes advantage of the strengths of both materials, thereby achieving similar overall sound profiles despite differences in materials used in the top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Grape Orange features a light actuation force of 40 grams, allowing for effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the KTT Rose lacks specific data on its actuation force, which leaves room for uncertainty in its feel during typing. However, it has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Grape Orange's 50 grams. This distinction indicates that while the Grape Orange provides a gentler typing experience, the KTT Rose offers a more substantial, medium-heavy feel for users who prefer a stronger push. Therefore, for lighter actuation and a softer bottoming out experience, the Huano Grape Orange is the better choice, while those who appreciate a more forceful typing sensation might lean toward the KTT Rose despite the unknown actuation force.
Travel distance
The Huano Grape Orange and KTT Rose linear switches differ significantly in their travel distances, with the Grape Orange measuring 3.6 mm and the Rose at 4 mm. This makes the Grape Orange the shorter option, potentially providing a more responsive feel that appeals to gamers and those seeking quicker actuation. On the other hand, the KTT Rose, with its longer travel distance, may be favored by users who appreciate a deeper key press, offering a more substantial tactile experience. While both switches are linear, emphasizing smooth key presses, the difference in travel distance means that they cater to different preferences: the Grape Orange for those who prefer speed and the Rose for those who enjoy a sense of depth in their keystrokes.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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 is often noted for its unobtrusive auditory profile, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, especially during lengthy sessions. In contrast, the KTT Rose switch produces a low-pitched and bassy sound akin to gentle raindrops falling, providing a more resonant auditory experience. This bass-heavy tone gives the Rose switch an appealing and soothing character while typing, making it suitable for various environments, including shared spaces, where sound levels don't want to disturb others.
In terms of feel, the Grape Orange switch offers a notably light and effortless typing experience, requiring only 40g of actuation force, which allows for quick and fluid keystrokes. This makes it especially appealing for those who engage in long typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switches provide a mild and polished tactile experience. Their progressive spring design gives them a unique substantial feeling while maintaining a gentle touch, ideal for users seeking a comfortable yet responsive typing experience. The polished nature of the Rose switch further reduces friction and enhances smooth key travel, making every press a pleasant interaction.
In summary, while both switches offer distinct auditory and tactile qualities, your choice between the Huano Grape Orange and KTT Rose largely comes down to personal preference. The Grape Orange excels in providing a lightweight and quiet experience, perfect for extended use, while the Rose brings a warm, low-pitched sound with a well-balanced and smooth typing feel. Depending on your typing style and acoustic preferences, you can expect different yet enjoyable experiences from either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, it's essential to consider your typing style and preferences. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience, especially for long hours of use, the Grape Orange is an excellent choice due to its ultra-low actuation force of 40 grams and its comfortable bottom-out force of 50 grams. This switch allows for quick keystrokes without much resistance, making it ideal for writers or gamers who value speed and ease of typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel with a moderate actuation force, the KTT Rose could be your best bet. With a bottom-out force of 63.5 grams and a story of progressive springs, the Rose offers a more refined, polished typing experience that combines a gentle touch with a satisfying heft. This is particularly suited to those who appreciate a bassy sound profile and a slightly heavier feedback that provides a foundation for more deliberate typing. In essence, if you want something breezy and light for swift action, go for the Grape Orange, whereas if you desire a more refined, beautifully balanced typing feel, the KTT Rose will serve you well.
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