KTT Grapefruit vs. Durock Medium Tactile
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Durock Medium Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up are the KTT Grapefruit and the Durock Medium Tactile. The Grapefruit switches, as their name suggests, boast a unique and delightful experience. These linear switches offer a soft and light touch, giving typists a smooth and effortless keystroke. With its soft yet distinct sound profile, the Grapefruit switch provides a pleasing and "baritone" sensation. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch brings a different flavor to the table. With a pronounced and balanced tactility, it offers a satisfying feedback with each press. The jelly-like sound signature adds an extra bit of character to the typing experience. Both switches have their own unique attributes and advantages. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Durock Medium Tactile switches have notable similarities and differences. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for those utilizing RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal when comparing the polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit and the Medium Tactile.
However, the switches differ in terms of their bottom housing materials. The Grapefruit utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, offering comparable qualities in terms of the sound produced. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released.
In summary, both the KTT Grapefruit and the Durock Medium Tactile switches share the advantage of using polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a sharper and crisper sound profile. However, their differences lie in the bottom housing materials. While both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound, the specific characteristics may vary slightly. Nevertheless, users can expect similar effects in terms of sound when pressing down on a key, while the release of the key may showcase slight variations due to the differences in the top housing material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The actuation force of the Grapefruit is 45 grams, while the exact force for the Medium Tactile is unknown. However, the bottom out force of the Grapefruit is 53 grams, which falls within the medium-light range. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile has a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a medium-heavy weight.
Considering weight, preferences come into play. Those who desire a lighter typing experience, suitable for extended periods of typing or long gaming sessions, may prefer the Grapefruit switch with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces. This allows for a more effortless keystroke, reducing fatigue. On the contrary, individuals who seek a more substantial push feel and enjoy a stronger typing experience may find the Medium Tactile switch more appealing. The higher bottom out force provides a significant and satisfying tactile feedback while typing.
While the actuation force of the Medium Tactile is unknown, it is worth noting that the Grapefruit's actuation force is relatively light. Therefore, if both switches have a similar actuation force, users can expect similar results in terms of keystroke triggering. However, it is important to consider the significant difference in bottom out forces, as this can greatly impact the overall typing experience.
In summary, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is the lighter option with a medium-light actuation force and bottom out force. Meanwhile, the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch is the heavier choice with a medium-heavy bottom out force, although the actuation force is unavailable. The decision ultimately relies on personal preferences, where some may prioritize longer typing sessions and lighter pressure, while others value a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same 4 mm of travel distance. Therefore, in terms of the distance traveled by the switch from the top to the bottom, you can expect similar results from both the KTT Grapefruit and the Durock Medium Tactile switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile 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 known for its soft and light feel, giving users a comfortable typing experience. It produces a "baritone" deep sound profile that is not quite as "bass" heavy. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch offers a pronounced yet balanced tactility. It has a jelly-like sound signature, although the specific details of the sound are unknown.
In terms of sound, the Grapefruit switch provides a low-pitched sound profile with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It also has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and skill levels. While the Medium Tactile switch's sound characteristics are not described, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Grapefruit switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. It has reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile switch is described as accented, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It is also stepped, meaning it has a mild bump during the keystroke and allows for some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Similar to the Grapefruit switch, the Medium Tactile switch is also described as polished, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Grapefruit switch provides a soft and light feel with a deep, low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile switch offers a more pronounced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature. It is important to consider personal preferences and the desired typing experience when choosing between these switches. However, based on the available information, if a user prefers a smoother typing experience with reduced friction, both switches offer a polished feel. Similarly, if a user prefers a switch with moderate actuation force and a neutral sound profile, both switches can provide similar results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a soft and light linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Grapefruit switches would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a gentle typing experience and have a polished finish, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, they have a low-pitched sound profile, giving them a bass-heavy and mellow tone. They are suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use them at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock Medium Tactile switches would be a perfect fit. These switches feature a pronounced yet balanced tactility, giving you a satisfying typing experience without being overwhelming. They have an accented feel, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being scratchy. Additionally, they have a stepped characteristic, making them feel more mild compared to hypertactile switches. These switches also have a mild sound profile, ensuring a pleasant typing experience.
Ultimately, your choice between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch will depend on your personal preferences. Consider whether you prefer a linear or tactile feel, the bottom out force that suits your typing style, and the sound profile that you find most appealing. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that aligns with your preferences and requirements.
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