KTT Grapefruit vs. TTC Honey
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the TTC Honey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Grapefruit and TTC Honey are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique experiences for users. The Grapefruit switches are highly regarded for their soft and light type feel and distinct "baritone" sound profile, although not reaching the depth of a true "bass" sound. Classified as being low-pitched, neutral, and polished, these linear switches provide a tarty sensation that sets them apart. On the other hand, the Honey switches from TTC boast a smooth and creamy feel, accompanied by a deep and pleasant sound profile. With a categorization of subdued, creamy, frictionless, buttery, subtle, and polished, these linear switches offer a different kind of typing experience. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to help you make the best decision for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the TTC Honey differ in terms of their bottom housing. While the Grapefruit features a nylon bottom housing, the Honey utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, contributing to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Therefore, the choice between the two depends on the desired sound experience.
However, both the Grapefruit and the Honey share the same polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for its ability to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is especially useful when paired with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for a visually appealing illumination. Thus, users can expect similar results when it comes to the sound and aesthetic aspects of the switches.
When comparing the overall sound and feel of the switches, the bottom housing of each switch plays a significant role. The qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent when pressing down on the switch, as they greatly impact the bottom-out sound and feel. Since the Grapefruit uses nylon for its bottom housing, it will provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Honey, with its polycarbonate bottom housing, will produce a sharper and crisper sound. On the other hand, the top housing of the switch will have a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice between the two switches should consider both the desired bottom-out feel and the sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, there are notable similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, the Grapefruit requires 45 grams of force, while the Honey requires a slightly lighter 42 grams. Both switches fall within the light to medium-light category, making them suitable for those who prefer a gentler touch while typing.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Grapefruit has a slightly higher requirement at 53 grams compared to the Honey's 50 grams. Although the difference is minimal, it suggests that the Grapefruit switch may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to the slightly higher force required to fully press the keys.
In terms of weight, both switches can be deemed relatively light. However, if one prefers an even lighter typing experience, the Honey switch would be the lighter option. This could be advantageous for those who prefer extended typing sessions or engage in lengthy gaming sessions, as the lighter weight can minimize fatigue and strain on the fingers.
On the other hand, individuals seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback may opt for the Grapefruit switch. The slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force of the Grapefruit can provide a more satisfying push and a sense of solidity while typing.
Overall, while the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and TTC Honey linear switch share similarities in being light to medium-light switches, the minor variances in their actuation force and bottom out force offer users the choice between a lighter typing experience with the Honey or a slightly more substantial feel with the Grapefruit. Ultimately, the selection between the two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch have different travel distances. The Grapefruit has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, which is considered a more traditional option. On the other hand, the Honey has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. While both switches offer a relatively similar experience, with the Grapefruit providing a slightly deeper key press, the difference in travel distance may be significant for certain individuals. Gamers, for instance, generally prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. In this case, the Honey switch would be more suitable. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the longer travel distance of the Grapefruit switch may be preferred. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired level of responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
The KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41 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
The KTT Grapefruit and TTC Honey linear switches have distinct sound profiles. The Grapefruit switches offer a low-pitched sound that is "baritone" but not yet "bass" deep. This means that they have a mellow and bass-heavy tone, providing a pleasant sound experience. On the other hand, the Honey switches have a subdued sound, meaning they produce a dampened and more subtle sound compared to most switches. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, but it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Grapefruit switches are described as having a polished feel. This indicates that they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel of the Grapefruit switches provide an effortless typing sensation. The Honey switches, on the other hand, offer a creamy and frictionless feel. They provide a smooth and buttery typing experience, making it feel like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. The Honey switches also have a subtle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel. Both switches provide a polished and smooth typing experience, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing session.
In conclusion, the KTT Grapefruit and TTC Honey linear switches have their own unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Grapefruit switches offer a low-pitched sound that is mellow and bass-heavy, while the Honey switches provide a more dampened and subdued sound. In terms of feel, the Grapefruit switches have a polished feel with reduced friction, and the Honey switches offer a creamy and frictionless typing experience with a subtle resistance. Both switches provide a smooth and refined typing experience, ensuring an effortless and enjoyable typing session. Whether you choose the Grapefruit or Honey switches, you can expect similar results in terms of a smooth and pleasant typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a soft and light feel and a "baritone" sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it provides a medium-light typing experience. Additionally, the Grapefruit switch offers a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience with reduced friction.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a smooth and creamy feel and a deep and pleasant sound profile, the TTC Honey linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, it offers a lighter typing experience compared to the Grapefruit switch. The Honey switch provides a buttery and frictionless typing sensation, making your keystrokes feel effortless and fluid.
In terms of sound, the Grapefruit switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, as well as for use in various environments such as home or work.
On the other hand, the Honey switch has a subdued sound signature, producing a dampened and subtle sound when pressed. This makes it a great option for shared spaces where a quieter typing experience is desired.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch depends on your preferred typing feel and sound profile. Whether you prioritize a soft and light feel with a "baritone" sound (Grapefruit) or a smooth and creamy feel with a deep and pleasant sound (Honey), both switches offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences.
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