KTT Grapefruit vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Grapefruit and HMX Lotus (Heavy) are two compelling linear options that cater to different typing preferences. The KTT Grapefruit switches are celebrated for their soft and light feel, complemented by a unique "baritone" sound profile that strikes a balance between being low-pitched and neutral, rendering them ideal for users who appreciate a smooth and gentle typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches offer a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, resulting in a bouncy and responsive keystroke that is accompanied by a bright, resonant sound, perfect for those who seek a more pronounced tactile feedback with their typing. While both switches provide linear actuation, they each present distinctive characteristics that suit different users—whether you prefer a softer touch with a nuanced acoustic profile or a heavier, more lively keystroke experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
POM
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-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Grapefruit and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) utilize different materials for their top housing, which significantly affects sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. The Grapefruit’s polycarbonate top housing is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffer plastic composition. This material not only enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound but also allows for luminous RGB lighting effects because of its translucence. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) features a nylon top housing, which is characterized by producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs sound rather than amplifying it, resulting in a more muted, rounder sonic experience. These distinct materials create markedly different auditory experiences when typing on the respective switches.
Interestingly, both switches share the same material for their bottom housings: nylon. This consistency leads to a unified sound profile when considering the bottom-out feel and sound during gameplay or typing. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound for both switches, ensuring that the bottoming action retains a satisfying auditory feedback. With the bottom housing influencing the tactile feel more than the top, users may find that despite the differences in top housing, the deep characteristics introduced by nylon at the bottom provide a common ground, allowing for an overall cohesive typing experience across both switches.
When evaluating the combined effect of the housing materials, it becomes evident that the duality of housing differences and similarities creates a unique interplay in the user experience. The KTT Grapefruit's crisp sound from its polycarbonate top can be perceived as a sharp attack while the nylon bottom provides a solid foundation that enriches the overall sound profile with a sense of depth. Conversely, the HMX Lotus (Heavy), with its softer nylon top and bottom, might appeal to users who prefer a more subdued, rounded feel. Regardless of the contrasting top materials, both switches promise strikingly fulfilling tactile and auditory feedback thanks to their matching nylon bottoms, showcasing how the interplay of materials can lead to varied, yet enjoyable experiences.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Grapefruit switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, along with a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer typing experience ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) has a firmer actuation force of 55 grams and a higher bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to those who appreciate a stronger push feel and a more substantial interface while typing. Thus, the Grapefruit switch is the lighter option, while the Lotus switch offers a heavier feel. These differences in force specifications indicate that while both switches can provide satisfying typing experiences, the Grapefruit suits lighter, longer use, while the Lotus caters to those who prefer a stronger resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, the Grapefruit boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Lotus (Heavy) measures 3.5 mm. This means that the Grapefruit has a longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial depth in their keystrokes, providing a tactile experience that feels more pronounced. On the other hand, the Lotus (Heavy), with its shorter 3.5 mm travel distance, caters to gamers and users seeking quicker response times, potentially enabling faster actuation during intense gameplay scenarios. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for either a deeper, more deliberate key press or a snappier, more responsive action.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) for $2.99.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Grapefruit linear switches present a distinctive low-pitched, baritone quality that contributes to a mellow and somewhat deep auditory experience, offering a balance of richness without overwhelming bass. This sound profile makes them suitable for various environments, whether at home or in an office, providing a neutral tone that can seamlessly fit into both casual and professional settings. The HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches, while not specifically detailed in terms of sound descriptors, are noted for their bright and resonant nature. Given their lively character, it's likely that they will provide a more pronounced auditory experience compared to the Grapefruit, though the exact contrasts can be influenced by the choice of keyboard, keycaps, and acoustics of the workspace.
When evaluating the feel of these switches, the Grapefruit linear switches shine with their polished touch, yielding a smooth, refined typing experience characterized by reduced friction and effortless key travel. This smoothness often stems from high-quality materials and potentially factory lubing, making them appealing for prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches boast a medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g and are described as providing a bouncy feeling which enhances the tactile feedback during key presses. This could result in a more engaging typing experience, allowing users to enjoy a sense of responsiveness that is less prevalent in lighter switches like the Grapefruit.
In summary, the KTT Grapefruit and HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switches present unique attributes that cater to different user preferences. While the Grapefruit offers a soft, polished feel along with a mellow, low-pitched sound suitable for versatile settings, the Lotus (Heavy) provides a more substantial actuation force combined with a bright and resonant sound, enhancing the sensory engagement during typing. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer a lighter, smoother experience with a deeper sound or a more tactile, bouncier feel with a brighter acoustic profile.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a softer, lighter typing experience with a unique sound profile that is relaxed yet pleasantly deep, the KTT Grapefruit is the right choice for you. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams makes it ideal for quicker, more responsive typing, particularly if you often engage in fast-paced gaming or typing tasks. The polished feel of the Grapefruit adds an extra layer of smoothness, ensuring that each keystroke is effortless and refined. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bit more resistance and appreciate a bright, resonant sound with each keystroke, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is likely your best bet. With a heavier bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, this switch provides a bouncy and satisfying tactile experience, perfect for those who favor a more substantial key press or who prefer to type with a bit more deliberate force. Ultimately, consider how you plan to use your keyboard – for fast-paced gaming, the Grapefruit may be your go-to, while for structured typing tasks, the Lotus (Heavy) could provide the robust feel you desire.
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