KTT Grapefruit vs. Jerrzi Orange
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Jerrzi Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Grapefruit and Jerrzi Orange both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Grapefruit is praised for its soft and light type feel, along with a "baritone" sound profile that is not too overwhelming. In contrast, the Jerrzi Orange is known for its clacky and lively typing experience, providing a crisp and audible feedback with each key press. While the Grapefruit is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', the Orange is characterized as 'Feathery', 'Easy-to-press', 'Subdued', and 'Clacky'. Both switches have their own strengths making them appealing options for different users. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Jerrzi Orange are quite similar in that they both feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, the bottom housings of the two switches differ, with the Grapefruit featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Orange also adopting a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is described as creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics to create a duller and rounder sound.
While the polycarbonate top housing of both the KTT Grapefruit and the Jerrzi Orange provides similar sound characteristics, the nylon bottom housings offer a point of contrast. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will elicit a different sound experience compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing. The split between the qualities of the two housing materials impacts the overall sound profile of the switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a role in the sound when a key is released. This division of qualities between top and bottom housings can create a unique typing experience for users of both switches.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the KTT Grapefruit and the Jerrzi Orange contribute to the distinct sound profiles of each switch. While the polycarbonate top housings provide a sharp and clear sound, the nylon bottom housings alter the sound experience, creating a deeper and fuller sound. These differences in housing materials give users the opportunity to choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and typing feel. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate top housing or the softer nylon bottom housing, each material brings its own unique qualities to the overall typing experience, making for a diverse range of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, it is evident that the Grapefruit has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Orange's 37 grams, making the Grapefruit switch slightly heavier in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Grapefruit has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Orange's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Grapefruit switch slightly heavier overall in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience, the Grapefruit may be more suitable for those who prefer a medium-light feel, while the Orange's unknown bottom out force may require further testing for those seeking a specific force profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Grapefruit being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Grapefruit for its slightly longer travel distance, as it allows for a bit more depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, those looking for a quicker response time may opt for the Orange with its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches while maintaining a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange linear switch produces a subdued and clacky sound, with a dampened yet crisp and bright feedback that adds a lively and responsive element to the typing experience.
Regarding feel, the KTT Grapefruit switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Jerrzi Orange switch provides a feathery and easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal exertion and gentle resistance during key presses, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions and reducing finger fatigue.
Considering the subjective qualities of the KTT Grapefruit and Jerrzi Orange linear switches, it is evident that they offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Grapefruit switch emphasizes a soft and light feel with a low-pitched sound profile, the Orange switch focuses on delivering a lively and clacky experience with a lightweight and feathery feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feedback and tactile response, as both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience in unique ways.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a soft and light typing experience with a slightly deeper sound profile, the Grapefruit switch with its polished feel and low-pitched sound may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lively and clacky typing experience with a feathery and easy-to-press feel, the Orange switch with its vibrant feedback and subdued sound may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the Grapefruit and Orange switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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