KTT Grapefruit vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Grapefruit and the Cherry MX Red both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Grapefruit is favored for its soft and light feel, along with a distinctive "baritone" sound profile. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red is known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience with a satisfying auditory depth. While the Grapefruit switch is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured'. 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
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 Cherry MX Red switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Grapefruit switch features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic construction. Additionally, the polycarbonate material is translucent, making it ideal for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting. In contrast, the MX Red switch utilizes a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Both the Grapefruit and the MX Red switches incorporate a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound profile of the switches. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound when typing, as it is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is more significant, while the top housing plays a key role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite the different top housing materials, both switches share the nylon bottom housing, ensuring a similar overall typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the KTT Grapefruit and Cherry MX Red plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. The use of polycarbonate in the Grapefruit switch results in a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing in the MX Red switch produces a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing that contributes to the overall sound profile, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Whether using polycarbonate or nylon, each housing material brings its unique characteristics to the switches, offering users options to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is clear that they both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Grapefruit has a force of 53 grams, whereas the MX Red force is unknown. The Grapefruit switch is considered medium-light in terms of bottom out force, while the MX Red's bottom out force remains a mystery. Considering weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Grapefruit for longer typing sessions or gaming. Others may appreciate the potentially heavier feel of the MX Red for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch is the same, both measuring at 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide a similar typing experience, resulting in comparable results for users who prefer a shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that can suit a variety of typing environments. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch delivers a thocky and low-pitched sound, known for its deep, rich, and satisfying auditory feedback. Both switches offer a unique sound experience, with the Grapefruit leaning towards a softer and lighter tone, while the MX Red provides a more robust and pronounced sound.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Grapefruit switch boasts a polished finish, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In comparison, the Cherry MX Red switch is described as textured, indicating noticeable friction when pressed, which may appeal to users who prefer a bit of resistance in their keystrokes. The polished feel of the Grapefruit switch provides a sleek typing sensation, while the textured nature of the MX Red switch offers a tactile experience that some users may find more satisfying.
Overall, both the KTT Grapefruit and Cherry MX Red linear switches have their own distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Grapefruit switch offers a softer and lighter sound profile, coupled with a polished feel for smooth key travel, making it a great option for those seeking a gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Red switch provides a deeper, more pronounced sound with a textured feel, catering to users who prefer a bit of friction in their keystrokes. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking different typing experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a softer, lighter typing feel with a unique "baritone" sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel and a deep, satisfying "thocky" sound profile, along with a classic Cherry switch experience, then the Cherry MX Red could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound characteristics.
Mentioned in this article
