KTT Grapefruit vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Grapefruit and PH Studio Milk Tea mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note their unique characteristics. The Grapefruit is renowned for its soft and light feel, along with a "baritone" sound profile that is not quite "bass" deep. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and polished, this switch is a popular choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch by PH Studio offers a high-pitched sound with a muted essence, striking a delicate balance between presence and subtlety. Categorized as clacky, high-pitched, marbly, polished, silky, and resonant, this switch provides a comfortable bottom-out of just 43.5g, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. 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
37.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Grapefruit and the PH Studio Milk Tea both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Grapefruit features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Milk Tea has a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. Despite their differences, both materials offer a pleasing and unique sound experience, catering to different preferences for keyboard enthusiasts.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Grapefruit utilizes a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and duller sound. On the other hand, the Milk Tea also uses POM for its bottom housing, offering a similar deep and muted sound profile. Both switches incorporate materials that enhance the typing experience by providing a unique and satisfying sound profile that resonates with users who appreciate mechanical keyboards for their auditory feedback.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the KTT Grapefruit and PH Studio Milk Tea results in keyboards with distinct sound profiles. While the materials used in the top and bottom housings may differ, they each contribute to the overall typing experience in their own way. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Grapefruit or the deeper and more muted sound of POM in the Milk Tea, both switches offer a unique sound profile that sets them apart in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch both offer a smooth typing experience, but there are some key differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Grapefruit has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Milk Tea's lighter 37.5 grams. Additionally, the Grapefruit requires a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Milk Tea only needs 43.5 grams to bottom out. This means that the Milk Tea is overall lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Grapefruit. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Milk Tea, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may find the Grapefruit more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance, while the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Milk Tea switch for faster response times, while those who prefer a more pronounced key press may opt for the Grapefruit switch with its longer travel distance. Overall, both switches offer their own unique feel and response, catering to different preferences based on travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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 offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow and moderate auditory experience suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch presents a unique combination of clacky, high-pitched, marbly, and resonant characteristics, delivering a sharp, crisp, and immersive sound. Depending on personal preference, the Grapefruit offers a deeper tone while the Milk Tea provides a more vibrant and lively sound.
In terms of feel, both the Grapefruit and Milk Tea switches are described as polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced key travel. Additionally, the Milk Tea switch is noted for its silky feel, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches prioritize comfort and ease of use during extended typing sessions.
Overall, while the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities, both switches prioritize a smooth and refined typing experience. Whether you prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound like the Grapefruit or a high-pitched and resonant sound like the Milk Tea, both switches cater to different preferences while ensuring a comfortable typing experience with polished surfaces. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Grapefruit linear switch or the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, your decision may hinge on a few key factors. If you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile, the Grapefruit may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a lighter bottom-out force, a high-pitched, clacky sound profile, and a refined, silky typing experience, the Milk Tea could be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and force requirements. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so consider what aspects are most important to you in a keyboard switch before making your selection.
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