KTT Grapefruit vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Grapefruit and KTT Lightning are two popular options to consider. The Grapefruit switch is well-known for its unique characteristics. These linear switches offer a soft and light feel, accompanied by a smooth, low-pitched sound profile. Categorized as 'Low-pitched, Neutral, and Polished,' they provide a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Lightning switches are highly sought after for their speed. Designed for situations where split-second decisions matter, these linear switches offer a slick feel and a clacky sound profile. Categorized as 'Clacky, High-pitched, Chirpy, Subtle, and Polished,' they excel in delivering quick and accurate keystrokes. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics of each switch so that you can make an informed decision about which one suits your needs best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the KTT Lightning have many similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate housing allows for the use of RGB lighting due to its translucency. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic qualities when using either switch.
However, the main difference between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The Grapefruit utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Lightning also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic composition. It absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing materials will impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when it is pressed down.
Interestingly, despite the difference in bottom housing materials, both switches will still exhibit the same qualities contributed by the polycarbonate top housing. This means that users can expect both switches to deliver a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when letting go of a key. The split between the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials only applies to the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Overall, the choice between the Grapefruit and the Lightning will depend on the user's preference for the specific type of sound they desire during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The actuation force, which is the force required to trigger a keystroke, is 45 grams for the Grapefruit and slightly lighter at 43 grams for the Lightning. This means that the Lightning switch may offer a slightly more responsive typing experience as it requires slightly less force to register a keystroke.
In terms of bottom out force, which measures the force required to press the key all the way down, the Grapefruit has a slightly heavier 53 grams compared to the Lightning's 50 grams. This means that the Grapefruit switch may offer a slightly more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
In considering weight, it is worth noting that the Grapefruit switch is slightly heavier overall in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. However, both switches fall within the medium-light to light range, making them suitable for individuals who prefer lighter switches for extended typing periods or gaming sessions.
In conclusion, while the KTT Grapefruit linear switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Lightning switch, both switches provide similar results within the medium-light to light range. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences for typing experience and desired weight.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch have different travel distances. The Grapefruit has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered the more traditional option. On the other hand, the Lightning has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This makes the Lightning switch more preferred by gamers who value faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker activation of the key, leading to improved gaming performance. However, for those who prefer a deeper sensation when pressing down on a key, the Grapefruit switch with its longer travel distance would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.41. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Grapefruit and Lightning.
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 is best known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile. Low-pitched switches like the Grapefruit tend to have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This switch strikes a balance between a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or using it at home or work. The KTT Lightning linear switch, on the other hand, is described as clacky, high-pitched, and chirpy. It produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. If you prefer a switch with a more rich and bassy sound, the Lightning may be a better choice for you.
In terms of feel, the KTT Grapefruit offers a soft and light type feel. However, the available information does not provide any specific description beyond that. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switch is described as offering a slick type feel with a subtle resistance. This implies that while it provides a light typing feel, it still maintains a gentle resistance to prevent accidental key presses. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating that they have a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This is likely due to either the materials used in their construction or factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Grapefruit and Lightning linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Grapefruit has a low-pitched sound profile and a soft and light type feel, while the Lightning has a clacky, high-pitched, and chirpy sound profile, along with a slick type feel and subtle resistance. Both switches are described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. Depending on your preferences, you can choose between the more mellow and neutral sound of the Grapefruit or the sharp and crisp sound of the Lightning. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a soft and light typing experience with a "baritone" sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit switches are the way to go. These switches have a bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a medium-light feel. They are best known for their tart and unique linear feel. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and quick response times, the KTT Lightning switches are a great choice. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, these switches are considered light and are perfect for competitive gaming or situations where milliseconds can make a difference. They offer a slick typing experience with a clacky sound profile. In terms of sound, the Grapefruit switches have a low-pitched and neutral profile, while the Lightning switches are clacky and high-pitched, with a slight chirp. As for feel, the Grapefruit switches have a polished finish, ensuring smooth and refined key travel, while the Lightning switches have a subtle resistance and a polished finish. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
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