KTT Grapefruit vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may find yourself deliberating between the KTT Grapefruit and the Durock Lupine. Both switches are linear, providing a smooth and consistent typing experience. The KTT Grapefruit stands out for its soft and light type feel, accompanied by a low-pitched sound profile that is reminiscent of a baritone, yet not quite bass. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine offers a unique sensation with its two-stage long springs, providing a balanced weight distribution on the press and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. The Lupine also emits a classic clacky sound when activated. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Durock Lupine are quite similar. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housings of both switches allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate material is translucent, making it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Grapefruit and the Lupine will offer similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics due to their polycarbonate top housing.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Grapefruit and the Lupine utilize nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Unlike polycarbonate, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing will provide a unique experience, as the softer material absorbs more sound. Therefore, the Grapefruit and the Lupine will offer similar sound profiles due to their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing.
It is important to note that when a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material will be apparent in different aspects of the typing experience. When pressing down on these switches, the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that the nylon bottom housing of both the Grapefruit and the Lupine will contribute to the overall typing experience, providing a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing will have more influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while both switches share similarities in their housing materials, the specific qualities of each material will be experienced differently during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, it is evident that they have some noticeable differences. The actuation force of the Grapefruit is 45 grams, providing a medium-light feel, while the actuation force of the Lupine is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Grapefruit requires 53 grams, while the Lupine demands a slightly heavier 62 grams. This makes the Grapefruit lighter in terms of actuation force but similar in terms of bottom out force, providing a balance for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, for users who prefer a stronger push feel, the Lupine offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces. It is worth noting that both switches offer a medium rating for their bottom out force, ensuring a consistent and satisfying keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, it is clear that there is a slight difference between the two. The Grapefruit has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional length, while the Lupine has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Grapefruit offers a slightly deeper key press experience compared to the Lupine. However, it's important to note that both switches fall within a range that is commonly used and accepted. If you prioritize faster response times and enjoy a more sensitive feel, the Lupine with its shorter travel distance may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial key press, the Grapefruit with its slightly longer travel distance would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch is best known for its soft and light type feel, offering a unique and enjoyable typing experience. The sound profile of these switches is described as a "baritone" tone, not yet reaching a deep bass level. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a treat to type on due to its two-stage long springs. Pressing down on the Lupine switch offers a consistent weight distribution, while the rebound provides a more powerful upward movement. The sound profile of the Lupine switch is described as classic and clacky.
Considering sound, the Grapefruit switch has a low-pitched profile, characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. In contrast, the Lupine switch has a neutral sound profile, suitable for most purposes, and a high-pitched option for those who prefer a sharp and crisp sound. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Grapefruit switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. It provides reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Lupine switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable. Like the Grapefruit, the Lupine switch also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, while the Grapefruit and Lupine switches have their own unique characteristics, they both offer enjoyable typing experiences. The Grapefruit switch provides a soft and light feel with a baritone sound profile, while the Lupine switch offers consistent weight distribution and a powerful rebound, accompanied by a classic clacky sound. The choice between these switches will ultimately depend on the personal preferences of the user. However, if you are looking for similar results in terms of sound, you can expect a more mellow tone from the Grapefruit and a moderate sound profile from the Lupine. Both switches provide a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a soft and light typing experience with a subtle sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is a great choice. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it offers a medium-light actuation force that is suitable for most purposes. The Grapefruit is known for its polished feel, providing smooth key travel and reduced friction. Additionally, its low-pitched sound adds a mellow and bass-heavy tone to your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more powerful upward movement and a classic clacky sound, the Durock Lupine linear switch is worth considering. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, it offers a medium actuation force that is suitable for both beginners and advanced users. The Lupine also features a polished finish, ensuring a sleek typing experience with smooth key travel. Its neutral sound profile gives you a crisp and sharp sound when pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Grapefruit and the Durock Lupine depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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