Huano Grape Orange vs. KTT Wine Red

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between various options, each offering unique benefits. Two notable contenders in the linear switch category are the Huano Grape Orange and the KTT Wine Red. The Grape Orange is celebrated for its exceptionally light actuation force of just 40g, delivering an effortless typing experience that is ideal for long sessions spent on the keyboard. In contrast, the KTT Wine Red switches provide not only a pillowy light touch but also a satisfyingly deep sound profile, categorized as 'Bassy' and 'Low-pitched,' which many users find enjoyable and immersive. Both switches cater to distinct preferences—one focusing on a feather-light touch and the other on auditory satisfaction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your typing experience.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

KTT Wine Red Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$2.71 per 10

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Housing materials

The Huano Grape Orange and the KTT Wine Red share a significant similarity in their top housing material: both utilize polycarbonate. This material choice results in a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness, which enhances resonance and clarity. The translucence of polycarbonate also makes it highly suitable for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows light to pass through effectively, creating an appealing visual effect. Aesthetically, both switches are likely to offer a similar appearance, especially when illuminated, while providing an enhanced acoustic performance thanks to their common top housing material.

However, the bottom housing materials of the two switches diverge significantly. The Grape Orange employs nylon, a plastic known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile. This softness contributes to a duller, rounder auditory experience when typing, which contrasts sharply with the KTT Wine Red’s polycarbonate bottom housing. The latter maintains the crisp sound profile characteristic of polycarbonate, leading to a more resonant bottom-out experience. Thus, both switches will produce distinct auditory sensations during use—where the Grape Orange focuses on warmth and depth in sound, the Wine Red emphasizes sharpness and clarity.

When pressed, the differing materials contribute to the overall performance of each switch. The nylon bottom housing of the Grape Orange will make its impact more pronounced during the bottoming-out phase, creating a muffled sound that contrasts with the sharper click of the Wine Red’s polycarbonate base. Conversely, when releasing a key, the polycarbonate top of both switches will shine, contributing similarly to a clear and resonant sound. Therefore, despite their differences in housing materials, the Grape Orange and KTT Wine Red will still evoke a comparable auditory experience from the top while offering distinct auditory characteristics from the bottom during their respective typing experiences.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are notable differences in both 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, making it well-suited for extended typing sessions or lengthy gaming marathons, as it requires less effort to actuate. In contrast, the Wine Red requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 44 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which caters to those who prefer a more substantial key press experience. While both switches provide specific tactile sensations, if a user were to try both, they would likely notice the Grape Orange feels lighter and easier to actuate compared to the medium-light sensation of the Wine Red. Overall, the Grape Orange is the lighter option, while the Wine Red is on the heavier side, fulfilling different preferences based on typing or gaming habits.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Grape Orange has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Wine Red boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, which is the longer of the two. This means that the Grape Orange is likely to provide a quicker response time, appealing to gamers and those who prefer a more responsive feel in their keystrokes. In contrast, the Wine Red's greater travel distance may offer a more substantial tactile experience for users who enjoy a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding response speed versus typing feel, with the Grape Orange suited for quicker actions and the Wine Red catering to those who favor depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Huano Grape Orange switch is yet to be characterized, leaving room for speculation about its acoustic profile. However, the KTT Wine Red switch boasts a notably bassy and low-pitched sound, offering a deeper and richer auditory experience during key presses. This bass-heavy tone not only enhances the typing experience but also contributes to a sense of satisfaction, making each keystroke feel more melodic. Keep in mind, though, that the overall sound may vary significantly based on the keyboard build and keycap material you choose, so trying the switches in various settings may yield different results.

In terms of feel, the Huano Grape Orange is recognized for providing an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience due to its ultra-low actuation force of only 40g. This makes it particularly suitable for those who spend extended periods typing, as the light resistance can minimize finger fatigue. Conversely, the KTT Wine Red switch is described as offering a pillowy light feel, which suggests that while it may not match the extreme lightness of the Grape Orange, it still provides a comfortable typing experience that is enjoyable to use for long durations. Both switches prioritize a smooth actuation, catering to users who prefer a gentle touch.

In conclusion, while the Huano Grape Orange switches excel with their incredibly low actuation force, the KTT Wine Red switches offer their own allure with a bass-rich sound and a pillowy typing feel. If you're looking for a lighter typing experience, the Grape Orange may be your go-to. However, if you appreciate a deeper acoustic profile combined with softness under your fingers, then the Wine Red could be more appealing. Ultimately, both switches deliver a compelling typing experience, making them suitable for various preferences depending on your typing style and aesthetic inclinations.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between Huano Grape Orange linear switches and KTT Wine Red linear switches ultimately depends on your personal typing style and preferences. If you prefer a lighter, more effortless typing experience, especially during extended sessions, the Grape Orange switches are an excellent choice due to their ultra-low actuation force of just 40 grams. Their light feel allows for quick, fluid keystrokes that can enhance productivity and reduce fatigue. In contrast, if you appreciate a slightly firmer key press coupled with a deep, rich auditory feedback, the Wine Red switches with their 55-gram bottom-out force present a more substantial typing feel. Their bassy sound profile and pillowy touch can add a satisfying depth to your typing experience. Therefore, when you want a swift, lightweight action, go for the Grape Orange; but when you're seeking a more pronounced feel and sound, the KTT Wine Red will be your best bet. Ultimately, it’s about aligning your choice with how you intend to use your keyboard, whether for gaming, typing, or a mix of both.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

KTT Wine Red Linear

$2.71 per 10

Learn more