KTT Grapefruit vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Grapefruit and Cherry MX Speed Silver both offer unique features worth considering. The KTT Grapefruit, a linear switch, is well-known for its soft and light feel, along with a "baritone" sound profile that is not quite deep like bass. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Polished', this switch is ideal for those who prefer a smoother typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver, also a linear switch, boasts full height for maximum speed, low spring resistance, and instant triggering, making it a top choice for gamers seeking rapid response. Categorized as 'Textured', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', this switch is perfect for those who prioritize speed and precision in their keystrokes. 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
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, it is evident that both switches use nylon for the bottom housing. This means that they will both elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the nature of nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. However, the top housings differ between the two switches, with the Grapefruit using polycarbonate and the MX Speed Silver using nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver produces a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in sound profiles is an important distinction between the two switches.
Furthermore, the choice of housing material can also affect the aesthetics of the switch. The polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit allows for translucency, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver may not offer the same level of customization when it comes to lighting effects. This difference in material can influence the overall look and feel of the switches, catering to different preferences among users. Additionally, the varying characteristics of the top and bottom housings can impact the overall typing experience, as the material used in each housing will contribute to the sound and feel of pressing down and letting go of keys.
In conclusion, while both the KTT Grapefruit and the Cherry MX Speed Silver utilize nylon for the bottom housing, their top housings differ in material and subsequently in sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit creates a clear and resonant sound, ideal for RGB lighting, while the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver produces a deeper and fuller sound. This distinction in sound profiles and aesthetic possibilities highlights the importance of housing material in determining the overall typing experience and customization options for mechanical switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that the MX Speed Silver is the lighter of the two. The Grapefruit has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver has an actuation force of 30 grams, but the bottom out force is not specified. This means the MX Speed Silver is lighter in terms of actuation force, but without knowledge of the bottom out force, it is difficult to determine if it is lighter overall. The actuation force is crucial for determining the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures how much force is needed to press the key all the way down. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the MX Speed Silver for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the slightly heavier feel of the Grapefruit for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that the MX Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Grapefruit's 4 mm. This may result in the MX Speed Silver providing a faster response time, which is preferred by many gamers. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt. On the other hand, the Grapefruit's longer travel distance may offer a more substantial feel when typing, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver 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 bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch produces a thocky and low-pitched sound, giving a deep and satisfying tone when pressed. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that can enhance the typing or gaming experience, depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
Moving onto the feel, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch is described as textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed that may appeal to users who prefer a tactile sensation while typing. The different feel of these switches can cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring that users can find the switch that best suits their needs and preferences.
In conclusion, while the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities, both switches excel in delivering a unique typing experience. Whether you prefer a softer and bass-heavy sound profile with a polished feel or a thocky sound with a textured feel, both switches have their strengths that can enhance your overall typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of your keyboard setup. If you enjoy one aspect of the Grapefruit or Speed Silver switch, you may find similar results in the other, but with its own unique characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Grapefruit linear switch or the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it's important to take into account your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a medium-light switch with a soft and light feel, along with a low-pitched sound profile, the Grapefruit switch may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize rapid response and maximum speed, the MX Speed Silver with its linear action and thocky sound profile might be more suitable for your gaming needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your keyboard usage. So, whether you go for the Grapefruit for its polished feel or the MX Speed Silver for its textured response, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing or gaming experience.
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