KTT Grapefruit vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the HMX KD200 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 HMX KD200 both offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The KTT Grapefruit is celebrated for its soft and light feel, combining a neutral typing experience with a distinct "baritone" sound profile that strikes a balance between subtlety and clarity; it’s an ideal choice for those seeking a gentle touch without sacrificing auditory feedback. On the other hand, the HMX KD200 boasts a reputation as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, making it suitable for typists who revel in pronounced keystrokes and a more dynamic soundscape. While the Grapefruit appeals to users looking for a polished and refined experience, the KD200 caters to those who appreciate noticeable audio feedback with each press. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
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
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the KTT Grapefruit and the HMX KD200, one of the most notable contrasts lies in their top housing materials. The Grapefruit utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which results in a sharper, clearer, and more resonant sound profile. This characteristic is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows it to transmit sound more effectively, creating an enhanced auditory experience. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate also makes it an excellent choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it enhances the visual impact of backlighting. On the other hand, the KD200 features a nylon top housing known for producing a warmer, deeper sound profile. Nylon’s softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a fuller and rounder auditory output. Thus, while the Grapefruit provides a crisper response, the KD200 offers a rich and warm tonal quality.
The bottom housings of both switches present a unique situation, as both the Grapefruit and the KD200 employ nylon for this component. This commonality means that the bottom-out sound and feel will be notably similar across both switches. Since nylon is a classic switch housing material that dampens sounds effectively, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile when bottoming out on both switches. The nylon material in the bottom section softens the auditory experience, resulting in a consistent key feel and sound character that appeals to users who enjoy the mellow and rounded tones typically produced by nylon.
In summary, while the KTT Grapefruit and HMX KD200 differ significantly in their top housing materials—polycarbonate versus nylon—their identical bottom housing material ensures a similar auditory experience in terms of the bottom-out sound. The polycarbonate top of the Grapefruit enhances clarity for the release sound, making it a better option for users seeking a more pronounced acoustic response. In contrast, the KD200’s nylon top provides a warmer sound that complements its soft bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preferences regarding sound profiles and tactile feedback, as the two designs cater to different auditory aesthetics.
Weight
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch exhibit some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to their bottom out forces, the Grapefruit switch has a slightly higher value at 53 grams compared to the KD200's 50 grams. This gives the KD200 the edge in terms of feeling lighter overall, making it a preferable choice for users who favor longer typing sessions or extended gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the Grapefruit, with its heavier bottom out force, might cater to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while both switches provide a similar actuation experience, the KD200 is lighter and offers a slightly softer landing, while the Grapefruit offers a firmer feel at the bottom.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch exhibit different travel distances, with the Grapefruit measuring 4 mm and the KD200 measuring 3.5 mm. As such, the KD200 has the shorter travel distance, while the Grapefruit offers a more traditional depth that some users may find more satisfying. The difference in travel distance means that gamers seeking quicker response times may prefer the KD200 for its shallower press. Conversely, those who favor a more substantial key feel may gravitate towards the Grapefruit. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize speed or tactile feedback in your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
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 comparing the sound profile of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, the Grapefruit presents a unique auditory experience characterized by its low-pitched and neutral qualities. This switch emits a deeper sound, described as having a mellow tone that suggests a baritone quality, making it a suitable choice for both home and work environments. On the other hand, the KD200 stands out as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, suggesting that it produces a more pronounced and audibly sharper sound. As sound can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard case and keycap materials, keyboard enthusiasts may find these differences playing a significant role in their overall acoustic experience.
In terms of feel, the KTT Grapefruit switch shines with its polished quality that promises a smooth and refined typing experience. This characteristic is likely attributed to either the materials used or factory lubing, which results in reduced friction and pleasant key travel. In contrast, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the KD200, leaving a gap in direct comparison. Without detailed metrics on its tactile feedback or smoothness, we can only suggest that the Grapefruit's superior smoothness may stand as a notable advantage over the KD200, depending on the personal preferences of the user.
Overall, while both switches serve the same purpose as linear options for mechanical keyboards, they cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. The KTT Grapefruit offers a soft and polished typing experience coupled with a smooth low-pitched sound, making it ideal for those who appreciate a refined feel. Conversely, the KD200 appeals to users who favor a clackier auditory response, potentially making it more suitable for those who prioritize sound in their typing experience. Given these distinct qualities, enthusiasts can choose between the Grapefruit's mellow charm and the KD200's pronounced acoustics based on their individual typing preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between KTT Grapefruit linear switches and HMX KD200 linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you find yourself drawn to a switch that offers a medium-light feel with a polished touch, the KTT Grapefruit is likely the better option for you. With its unique combination of a soft and light typing experience, along with a low-pitched sound profile, these switches excel in providing a refined typing experience suitable for a variety of environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force coupled with a more pronounced auditory feedback, the HMX KD200 is well-suited to your needs. Its standing as the clackiest switch in the HMX Film family makes it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a more aggressive, engaging typing experience, often favored among gamers or those who appreciate the auditory cues in their typing. Ultimately, your decision should align with what you value most in a switch—be it a smooth and mellow experience with the Grapefruit or the dynamic clackiness offered by the KD200.
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