KTT Grapefruit vs. Gateron Mars
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Gateron Mars switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the benefits of various options. The KTT Grapefruit and Gateron Mars are two noteworthy linear switches that cater to different preferences while maintaining a smooth typing experience. The KTT Grapefruit is celebrated for its soft and light feel, providing a satisfying tactile response without the resistance found in tactile or clicky switches. Its baritone sound profile delivers a pleasant auditory experience, characterized as 'Low-pitched,' 'Neutral,' and 'Polished.' In contrast, the Gateron Mars switches stand out due to their innovative POK stem and durable blend of Nylon and POM housing, which enhances both longevity and performance. While the Mars may not have a specific sound profile categorized yet, its unique design leads to a distinctly smooth keystroke that many users find appealing. Choosing between these two linear switches ultimately comes down to personal preferences in feel and sound; 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Grapefruit and Gateron Mars represent two distinct approaches to switch housing materials, each of which influences the acoustic profile and tactile experience of the switches. The Grapefruit features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffer composition that produces a sharper and more resonant sound profile. This material's translucency also enhances RGB lighting effects, making it visually appealing for those who prioritize aesthetics alongside performance. In stark contrast, the Mars utilizes a nylon top housing that naturally absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. This difference in material directly influences the character of the sound produced when each switch is engaged, with the polycarbonate yielding a crisper snap compared to the Mars's rounder sound.
When examining the bottom housings, both the KTT Grapefruit and Gateron Mars again reveal contrasting yet complementary acoustic characteristics. The Grapefruit opts for a nylon bottom housing, which continues the theme of deeper sound profiles, contributing to a fuller sound while typing. On the other hand, the Mars utilizes a POM bottom housing, renowned for its unique sound quality that also leans towards a muted and deeper auditory experience. While both switches incorporate a nylon component in their designs, the Grapefruit's nylon bottom resonates with greater depth, whereas the Mars's POM offers a distinctive sound that carves out its niche. Ultimately, the bottom housing plays an essential role in the bottom-out feel and sound, further diversifying the experience between the two switches.
In comparing these two models, one can see that while the housing materials differ greatly, these compositions yield specific sound profiles that enhance the overall typing experience. The blueprints of the KTT Grapefruit and Gateron Mars demonstrate how variations in top and bottom materials contribute to a final product that resonates differently with users. If users appreciate the deeper sounds produced by the Mars while wanting the crispness of the Grapefruit, they may find satisfaction in either switch depending on personal preference. In instances where one seeks a well-rounded soundscape while typing, these switches can provide similar overall results, albeit with different acoustic characteristics, shaped by their unique materials.
Weight
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch share the same actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that users will experience a similar ease of triggering keystrokes with both switches. This medium-light actuation force is beneficial for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it minimizes finger fatigue. However, the bottom out force differs, with the Grapefruit switch featuring a defined bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Mars switch does not provide this information. Without the bottom out force for the Mars switch, we are unable to make a direct comparison in that regard. The Grapefruit’s heavier bottom out force may give those who prefer a firmer tactile feedback a more satisfying experience, whereas the unknown bottom out force of the Mars switch leaves its overall feel somewhat ambiguous. Consequently, while both switches have the same actuation force, the Grapefruit is the heavier option overall, likely appealing to users who favor a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, there is a clear distinction: the Grapefruit features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Mars has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference of 0.4 mm may seem slight, but it can significantly affect user experience. The longer travel distance of the Grapefruit may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced feel when pressing down on keys, providing a sense of depth that can be satisfying for typing. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Mars may cater to gamers and those seeking rapid response times in their keystrokes. Ultimately, users' preferences will dictate which switch is more suitable for their needs, as the Grapefruit offers a traditional and hearty keystroke feel, while the Mars prioritizes quickness and agility for fast-paced actions.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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 stands out with a soft, low-pitched sound profile that leans towards a baritone tone, offering a bass-heavy and mellow auditory experience. This makes it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting, as it doesn’t produce a distracting noise. However, while the Gateron Mars linear switch does not have a defined sound profile available, it’s important to note that sound can greatly depend on factors like the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used. Thus, if sound quality is a priority, the Grapefruit will provide a more defined aural experience, while Mars may require further exploration to fully understand its acoustic characteristics.
In terms of feel, the KTT Grapefruit delivers a polished tactile experience, ensuring a smooth and refined typing sensation. This is enhanced by either the materials used or possible factory lubing, leading to minimal friction and a satisfying key travel. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Gateron Mars switch. This absence of data leaves an opportunity for user experimentation to find their preferred experience, as the Mars might have its own unique qualities that enhance or differ from the Grapefruit.
In conclusion, both the KTT Grapefruit and Gateron Mars switches offer distinct attributes that cater to different typing preferences. The Grapefruit excels in sound and feel, providing a polished, low-pitched experience. In contrast, the Mars switch presents an unknown yet innovative design that leaves room for discovery. While choosing between these switches, one can expect the Grapefruit to deliver a reliable and smooth typing experience, whereas the Mars may offer surprises worth exploring.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, your choice ultimately boils down to your personal preferences for sound profile and typing feel. If you enjoy a soft and light typing experience combined with a low-pitched, mellow sound, the KTT Grapefruit is likely the better option for you. With its polished feel, it guarantees a smooth and refined keystroke that enhances your overall typing experience, making it suitable for both casual use and long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you're intrigued by innovative designs and materials, the Gateron Mars, with its distinctive POK stem and a blend of Nylon and POM housing, may catch your attention. While the specifics of its sound and feel are not detailed, Gateron switches are generally recognized for their durability and unique typing sensations. Therefore, consider your priorities: go with the Grapefruit for a more traditional and pleasurable typing experience with a pleasant sound, or explore the Mars for something futuristic and potentially distinctive. Your decision should ultimately reflect what feels best for your individual typing style and environment.
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