KTT Grapefruit vs. Cherry MX Orange

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly impact your typing experience and overall satisfaction. The KTT Grapefruit switch stands out with its soft and light feel, making it an appealing option for those who prefer a gentle touch with a unique tarty character. Its low-pitched, neutral sound profile adds an extra layer of appeal, offering a polished auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switch garners attention for its revival of a classic design, enhanced with MX2A generation upgrades to meet modern demands. While the MX Orange may lack the distinctive acoustic quality of the Grapefruit, it promises reliability and a well-balanced linear response that many users appreciate. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches makes for an interesting decision, depending on personal preferences in tactile feedback and sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Grapefruit Linear

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$3.41 per 10

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

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Housing materials

The KTT Grapefruit and Cherry MX Orange switches exhibit distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influences their acoustic characteristics. The Grapefruit features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper and more resonant sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This material's translucency makes it especially suited for RGB lighting applications, allowing the light to shine through effectively and enhance the visual appeal of the switch. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange utilizes a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and rounder sound profile that is mellower and softer in comparison. The nylon’s sound-absorbing qualities create a more muted auditory experience, leading to a less pronounced top-out sound when releasing a key.

Although both switches contain nylon in their bottom housings, their acoustic performances differ greatly due to the materials used in the top housing. In the KTT Grapefruit, the polycarbonate top contributes a crisper release sound that contrasts with the fuller, deeper sound profile created by the nylon bottom. Therefore, when you press down on the Grapefruit, the characteristics of the polycarbonate are pronounced in the actuation sound, while the downward force resonates with the fuller tone of the nylon bottom. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange’s consistent nylon pairing in both top and bottom provides a more uniform sound and feel throughout the keypress, emphasizing the soft and somewhat muted characteristics of nylon in both phases of use.

Ultimately, while the KTT Grapefruit and Cherry MX Orange switches may share nylon in their bottom housings, their differing top housing materials lead to varied sound experiences. The Grapefruit's polycarbonate top results in a sharper and clearer sound, beneficial for those seeking an energetic typing experience, especially with RGB lighting. In contrast, the MX Orange, with its all-nylon construction, delivers consistent, deep, and rounded acoustics, lending itself to a more subdued typing experience. Therefore, users will need to choose between the lively sound profile of the Grapefruit and the more mellow characteristics of the MX Orange based on their specific preferences for tactile feedback and auditory delights while typing.

Weight

The KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch differ significantly in their actuation forces, with the Grapefruit requiring 45 grams to actuate, which is considered medium-light, while the MX Orange demands a heavier 55 grams for actuation. This makes the Grapefruit the lighter option, suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for prolonged use such as in a workplace or during extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the heavier actuation force of the MX Orange may appeal to those who favor a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Additionally, the Grapefruit's bottom out force is registered at 53 grams, indicating a moderate resistance when pressing the switch all the way down. Meanwhile, the bottom out force for the MX Orange is unknown, complicating a direct comparison in that regard. Overall, users seeking a lighter and more forgiving typing experience would likely gravitate towards the KTT Grapefruit, while those who enjoy a firmer push should consider the Cherry MX Orange despite limited data on its bottom-out characteristics.

Travel distance

The KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, resulting in a similar feel when pressing down on a key. Since their travel distances are identical, users can expect comparable responsiveness and actuation in both switches, enhancing consistency during typing or gaming. This similarity in travel distance allows for a uniform experience, allowing users to switch between the two without an adjustment period. In summary, neither switch is shorter or longer; they both offer the same 4 mm of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The KTT Grapefruit switches produce a low-pitched sound profile that leans towards a "baritone" quality, creating a uniquely satisfying auditory experience. This characteristic makes them less intrusive in shared environments while still delivering a pleasant acoustic response that enhances the typing experience. Although details on the MX Orange's sound profile are limited, it lacks a defined description, which suggests that it may not have a distinct auditory signature compared to some other Cherry switches. Thus, while the Grapefruit offers a specific resonance, the MX Orange likely remains neutral and unobtrusive, allowing both switches to blend well in varied settings.

In terms of feel, the KTT Grapefruit switches shine with their polished texture, which enhances the overall typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. This polished nature results in seamless key travel and reduced friction, making each keystroke feel effortless and comfortable. Unfortunately, details about the feel of the MX Orange switches are absent, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, if they share a similar design philosophy to other Cherry switches, it's reasonable to assume they might also offer a satisfying typing experience, though possibly without the distinct polish that the Grapefruit offers.

In conclusion, the KTT Grapefruit and Cherry MX Orange switches cater to users seeking specific qualities in their mechanical keyboard experience. The Grapefruit's low-pitched sound and polished feel present a distinct option for users who appreciate refined acoustics and smooth key travel. Although the absence of detailed information about the MX Orange means we can't provide a full comparison, it's possible they may still offer a solid typing experience for those who prefer established Cherry features. Ultimately, both switches are likely to deliver satisfying results, but the Grapefruit seems to stand out with its particular auditory and tactile qualities.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between KTT Grapefruit linear switches and Cherry MX Orange switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a soft, light feel combined with a polished smoothness and a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit is an excellent choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams makes it suitable for long typing sessions without causing excessive fatigue, making it ideal for those who prefer a more tactile and mellow experience. On the other hand, if you lean towards a switch that is well-known for its quality and has a legacy rooted in Cherry's design, the MX Orange can serve you well, particularly if you appreciate its historic significance and performance upgrades. Although its specific force rating isn't mentioned, it's worth considering for its potential consistency and reliability. Ultimately, your selection should align with what type of sound and feel resonates with your typing style, whether it's the smooth and light touch of the Grapefruit or the reliable, revered experience of the MX Orange.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Grapefruit Linear

$3.41 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn more