KTT Grapefruit vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Grapefruit and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). The Grapefruit is best known for its unique qualities, offering a soft and light type feel along with a "baritone" sound profile. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is the epitome of a classic budget switch, with smoothness and buttery goodness that excels in both gaming and typing. These switches are categorized differently, with the Grapefruit being described as "low-pitched", "neutral", and "polished", while the Milky Yellow Pro is characterized as "bassy", "buttery", "low-pitched", "textured", and "thocky". Both switches have their own merits, but 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
50g
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
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) differ in terms of their top and bottom housings. The Grapefruit features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that produces a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound overall.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Grapefruit and the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) utilize nylon. Nylon as a switch housing material is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, is more effective at absorbing sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use it. Therefore, in terms of bottom housings, both switches offer a similar experience and produce similar sound profiles.
It is important to note that when the top and bottom housings are different for a switch, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either the Grapefruit or the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3), you will feel the impact and experience the sound qualities of the bottom housing. However, when letting go of a key, the top housing will have more of an impact on the sound produced. In this case, the polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit will create a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) will elicit a deeper and fuller sound when releasing the key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Grapefruit requires 45 grams, while the Milky Yellow Pro needs 50 grams for keystroke activation. Although the difference is slight, those seeking a lighter typing experience may prefer the Grapefruit. However, both switches fall within the medium-light range.
When it comes to bottom out force, the Grapefruit requires 53 grams, whereas the Milky Yellow Pro has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that those who prefer a more substantial typing experience or gaming sessions may find the Milky Yellow Pro more suitable due to its higher force requirement.
Considering weight, the Grapefruit is slightly lighter in its actuation force, making it suitable for extended periods of typing or gaming. However, for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel, the Milky Yellow Pro with its higher bottom out force may provide a more satisfying experience. Overall, both switches present options for different preferences, enabling users to tailor their typing or gaming experience to their desired force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the feeling and feedback when typing or gaming with either of these switches. Both switches provide a comfortable and consistent travel distance to ensure an enjoyable typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 switches offer a unique blend of a baritone sound profile that is soft and light, but not deeply bass-like. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches have a low-pitched and thocky sound, providing a satisfyingly deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. Both switches lean towards lower frequencies and offer a bass-heavy and mellow tone, although the Grapefruit switches do not quite reach the deep bass notes that the Milky Yellow Pro switches can produce. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Grapefruit switches are described as offering a polished experience, resulting in a smooth and refined typing sensation. These switches feature reduced friction and smooth key travel, which enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches are known for their buttery feel, providing a seamless and effortless keystroke experience. The Milky Yellow Pro switches offer a uniform typing sensation, ensuring consistent feedback with each key press. It is important to note that textured switches are preferred by some users, while others prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. Both switches mentioned do not fall under the textured category, offering smooth and comfortable keystrokes.
Taking all the available information into account, it is clear that the KTT Grapefruit and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches each have their own distinct qualities. The Grapefruit switches excel in offering a soft and light feel and a baritone sound profile. They are ideal for those who prefer a more moderate actuation force requirement and a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro switches are budget-friendly and provide a low-pitched, thocky sound along with a buttery feel. These switches are versatile and suitable for both gaming and typing purposes. While they may offer slightly different characteristics, both switches provide a satisfying experience for keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a soft and light typing experience with a lower pitched sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is the way to go. These switches offer a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a comfortable and effortless typing experience. The Grapefruit switches also have a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel for a sleek typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer a thicker resistance and a "thocky" sound profile, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is the perfect choice. With a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, these switches offer a satisfyingly thick resistance that excels in both gaming and typing. The Milky Yellow Pro switches are described as buttery, providing a seamless and uniform typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Grapefruit and Gateron Milky Yellow Pro switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Both switches are suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work.
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