KTT Grapefruit vs. TTC Ice
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the TTC Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Grapefruit and the TTC Ice each offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The KTT Grapefruit switches are celebrated for their soft and light feel, providing a smooth linear typing experience accentuated by a low-pitched, polished sound profile that adds a touch of elegance to your typing. Perfect for those who enjoy a quieter environment while still seeking tactile satisfaction, these switches strike a balance between responsiveness and comfort. In contrast, the TTC Ice switches present a vibrant, crystal-clear aesthetic and deliver a clacky yet feathery typing experience, making them a popular choice for gamers and everyday typists alike. Their satisfying bottom-out sound contributes to an engaging typing experience that feels both luxurious and dynamic. Both switches have their unique strengths, appealing to different user preferences, whether you favor a subtle, refined touch or an exciting, auditory flair. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you perfectly.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Grapefruit and TTC Ice switches share a commonality in their top housing materials, both utilizing polycarbonate. This shared choice leads to a distinctly sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate ensures that sound waves resonate more clearly, resulting in a more pronounced auditory experience for users. Furthermore, the translucence of the material is particularly advantageous for those who enjoy RGB lighting, as it beautifully diffuses the colors and enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches. Since both switches employ polycarbonate in their top housing, users can expect similar sound characteristics stemming from this material choice, ensuring a consistent performance in lighting and sound clarity.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the KTT Grapefruit and TTC Ice switches diverge significantly, with the Grapefruit featuring nylon and the Ice made from polycarbonate. This difference leads to contrasting sound profiles when typing. The nylon bottom housing of the Grapefruit produces a deeper and fuller sound, as its softer plastic nature helps to absorb sound, resulting in a more muted auditory experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Ice reinforces the sharper sound profile established by its top housing, emphasizing clarity and resonance. Consequently, while both switches may share a lively top-end sound, the bottom housing material creates a fundamental difference in the overall sound signature and typing experience between the two.
When considering the combined effects of both housing materials, it becomes clear that the experience of typing on the KTT Grapefruit and TTC Ice switches will vary significantly. The Grapefruit, with its nylon bottom housing, may appeal to those who prefer a warm and fuller sound, particularly during bottom-out moments. Conversely, the TTC Ice, characterized by its two polycarbonate housings, offers a more consistent and bright sound profile throughout the key press. In essence, while the top housings provide similar auditory qualities due to their polycarbonate construction, the impact of the differing bottom materials transforms the overall sound and feel of each switch when typing, ultimately catering to different preferences amongst users.
Weight
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch both feature an identical actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, they diverge in their bottom out forces, with the Grapefruit offering a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Ice has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that while both switches will feel similar during the keystroke initiation, the Ice switch provides a more substantial resistance when fully pressed down, catering to those who prefer a firmer typing experience. As a result, for users seeking a lighter overall feel, the Grapefruit would be the better choice, whereas the Ice would appeal to those who appreciate a more robust tactile feedback when bottoming out.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Grapefruit and the TTC Ice linear switches, a clear distinction emerges between the two. The KTT Grapefruit features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is more traditional and provides a noticeable depth with each keystroke, catering to those who appreciate a more deliberate typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Ice has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, which aligns with the growing preference among gamers for quicker response times and more immediate feedback. This means that if you seek a snappier input, the TTC Ice would be the better choice due to its reduced travel distance. Consequently, while the Grapefruit offers the longer distance at 4 mm, the Ice's 3.6 mm travel distance provides a faster engagement, appealing to those who prefer a more efficient typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice for $5.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch produces a low-pitched sound profile that is characterized as deep and mellow. This baritone tone adds a subtle richness to the typing experience, making it pleasant for users who prefer a quieter and less intrusive auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the TTC Ice linear switch offers a clacky sound that is sharp, bright, and percussive. It provides a more distinct auditory feedback with each keystroke, resulting in a more prominent and lively typing experience. The contrast between the Grapefruit's low-pitched sound and the Ice's clacky nature can cater to different preferences depending on whether one seeks a more muted or an energizing sound while typing.
In terms of feel, the KTT Grapefruit switch is polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience that minimizes friction and allows for effortless key travel. This makes it a delight for users who prioritize a sleek and seamless feel during their typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Ice switch is characterized by its feathery touch, which requires minimal effort to actuate. This lightweight nature can greatly reduce finger fatigue, making the Ice a comfortable choice for prolonged use, whether for gaming or everyday tasks. While both switches offer unique advantages in terms of feel, the Grapefruit leans more towards a smooth and elegant experience, while the Ice promotes ease and comfort with its feather-light actuation.
Considered together, both the KTT Grapefruit and TTC Ice linear switches cater to distinct typing preferences while showcasing their own unique qualities. If you prefer a deeper, more mellow sound, the Grapefruit is ideal, while the Ice is suited for those who enjoy a sharp and bright auditory feedback. On the feel front, the Grapefruit offers a polished and smooth experience, whereas the Ice focuses on light actuation for comfort during extended use. Ultimately, either switch can provide a satisfying experience, but the choice hinges on your personal preference for sound and feel. Exploring both options could yield a rewarding typing experience based on what qualities resonate most with you.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the KTT Grapefruit and the TTC Ice linear switches, consider your personal preferences for feel, sound, and usage context. If you prefer a lighter touch and a softer, baritone sound for a pleasant, less intrusive typing experience, the KTT Grapefruit switches are an excellent choice. They are particularly suited for those who type extensively and desire a more relaxed keystroke that minimizes finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium resistance and a brighter, clacky sound that can add a lively character to your keystrokes, the TTC Ice switches would be the way to go. These switches provide a smooth and responsive feel that balances well for both gaming and everyday tasks, making them ideal if you want a switch that offers versatility without compromising on sound or responsiveness. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your unique typing style, the kind of sounds you find enjoyable, and how much effort you wish to exert during typing or gaming sessions.
Mentioned in this article
