KTT Grapefruit vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Grapefruit and the Zuoce Lavender are two popular options to consider. The Grapefruit is a linear switch known for its soft and light feel, paired with a unique sound profile that falls somewhere between "baritone" and "bass" tones. On the other hand, the Lavender switch stands out for its exceptional smoothness, thanks to its proprietary Ly blend, and offers a crisp and clacky sound signature for a satisfying typing experience. While the Grapefruit is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Polished', the Lavender is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Clacky'. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and Zuoce Lavender differ in terms of their top and bottom housings. The Grapefruit features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This is ideal for those who prefer a more clear and resonant sound when typing. In contrast, the Lavender comes with a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound experiences, the polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit may be more suitable for those who enjoy a sharper typing sound.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housings of the two switches, they share similarities in terms of sound profile. The Grapefruit's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Lavender's POM bottom housing also creates a deep and relatively muted sound. Both materials provide a rounder and duller sound compared to their respective top housings. Therefore, if sound is a priority for you in a switch, both the Grapefruit and Lavender offer a satisfying bottom housing experience.
Overall, the differences in top and bottom housing materials between the KTT Grapefruit and Zuoce Lavender offer a variety of sound profiles for users to choose from based on their preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit provides a sharper sound, while the POM top housing of the Lavender offers a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches share a similar experience when it comes to bottom housing materials, with nylon and POM both producing deep and full sound profiles. Whether you prefer a crisper typing sound or a more subdued one, both switches offer unique options for a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, it is clear that both switches fall within the medium-light category. The actuation force of the Grapefruit is slightly lighter at 45 grams compared to the Lavender's 48 grams, but both have a bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that the typing experience on both switches will feel similar in terms of force required for keypresses. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Grapefruit for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the slightly heavier actuation force of the Lavender for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and desired level of force.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Grapefruit has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lavender. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Grapefruit is more traditional, offering a balance between responsiveness and depth. On the other hand, the 3.4 mm travel distance of the Lavender is slightly shallower, which can be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance - whether you prefer a longer, more substantial press or a shorter, quicker response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 offers a low-pitched tone with a neutral sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow keystroke experience suitable for various uses. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch produces a clacky sound, giving off a sharp and snappy sound with each key press, creating a crisp and tactile typing sensation. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics, so choosing between them would depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and a sleek key travel. This results in a comfortable and satisfying keystroke that enhances the overall typing feel. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate each key. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
Overall, while the KTT Grapefruit and Zuoce Lavender linear switches offer different sound and feel characteristics, both provide a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer the low-pitched and neutral sound of the Grapefruit or the clacky and easy-to-press feel of the Lavender, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference in sound and feel, as both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT Grapefruit linear switch or the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, you should opt for the Grapefruit if you prefer a light and soft feel with a low-pitched sound profile. These switches offer a polished typing experience with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Lavender switch is the ideal choice for those seeking exceptional smoothness and a clacky sound signature right out of the box. These switches are easy-to-press and offer a satisfying typing experience with their crisp and bright sound. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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