KTT Grapefruit vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch, you are faced with a decision between a soft and light linear experience and a creamy smooth tactile typing adventure. The Grapefruit switch offers a low-pitched and neutral typing feel, along with a unique sound profile that falls somewhere between baritone and bass. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile switch provides a silky smooth typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump, making every keystroke a satisfying and tactile delight. 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
45g
Actuation force
58g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Durock Ice King Tactile offer different characteristics that affect the sound profile and feel of the switches. The Grapefruit features a polycarbonate top housing, which gives it a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a more clear and resonant sound. In comparison, the Ice King Tactile has a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone.
Both the Grapefruit and Ice King Tactile switches have nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs sound, resulting in a rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The difference in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches means that each housing material's qualities are split between the top and bottom, impacting the sound and feel differently. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key.
While the housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Durock Ice King Tactile are different, both switches offer unique sound characteristics based on their specific housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit produces a sharp and clear sound, ideal for those looking for a crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing results in a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to users who prefer a rounder tone. Despite their differences, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in achieving distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch differ in weight, with the Grapefruit being lighter and the Ice King Tactile being heavier. The actuation force of the Grapefruit is 45 grams, while the Ice King Tactile requires 58 grams for actuation. In terms of bottom out force, the Grapefruit has a force of 53 grams, while the Ice King Tactile bottoms out at 68 grams. This means that the Grapefruit switch offers a medium-light typing experience, while the Ice King Tactile provides a medium-heavy feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their force requirements, catering to users who prefer lighter or heavier switches for their keyboards.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Ice King Tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Grapefruit switch offers a slightly longer key travel, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper press when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile switch provides a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for fast-paced action. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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 offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various environments and levels of typing expertise. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch presents a subdued sound, delivering a dampened and subtle sound signature that enhances the typing experience with a touch of finesse. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that can be further affected by the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel. In comparison, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offers a silky and frictionless feel, enhancing smoothness and minimizing resistance during key presses. Additionally, the Ice King Tactile switch is characterized as stepped, providing a mild tactile experience with distinct stages during key presses. Both switches aim to deliver an exceptional typing experience through their unique tactile and smooth characteristics.
In conclusion, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Grapefruit switch provides a soft and light feel with a low-pitched sound profile, while the Ice King Tactile switch offers a creamy smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump and a subdued sound. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, but with differing characteristics to suit individual needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a softer and lighter typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the Grapefruit may be the right choice for you. The Grapefruit's low-pitched sound profile and polished feel provide a unique and pleasing typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile bump and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Ice King Tactile might be more suitable. The Ice King Tactile offers a subdued sound profile and a silky, frictionless typing feel, creating a satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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