KTT Grapefruit vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that often come to mind are the KTT Grapefruit and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream. The KTT Grapefruit is a linear switch that is best known for its soft and light feel, accompanied by a distinct "baritone" sound profile. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream offers a heftier typing experience with a deeper sound profile, creating a more textured and resonant feel. While the Grapefruit is categorized as low-pitched and neutral, the Cream switch is described as buttery, low-pitched, textured, resonant, and invigorating. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.

By the numbers

KTT Grapefruit Linear

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$3.41 per 10

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches differ in their composition, leading to distinct sound profiles. The Grapefruit uses a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Cream's POM top housing. Polycarbonate is known for its translucency, making it an ideal material for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, POM housings produce a more muted and deeper sound, providing a unique auditory experience. However, both materials contribute to enhancing the overall sound quality of the switches.

Moving on to the bottom housings, the Grapefruit features a nylon material that results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. Similarly, the Cream's POM bottom housing contributes to a pleasing and deep sound. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, further emphasizing the importance of the housing material.

While there are differences between the top and bottom housing materials, it is important to note that they both play a crucial role in the overall sound experience of the switch. The top housing determines the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, whether using the Grapefruit's polycarbonate or Cream's POM housing, users can expect a noticeable enhancement in sound quality and performance, albeit with distinct tonal characteristics.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Grapefruit switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Cream switch's 55 grams. This means that the Grapefruit requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream switch is heavier, requiring 70 grams compared to the Grapefruit's 53 grams. This means that when pressing down fully, the Cream switch offers a more substantial and resistant typing experience.

These differences in force can impact the typing experience and preference of different individuals. Those who prefer a lighter touch and want to type for longer periods of time may opt for the Grapefruit switch. Its lighter actuation force allows for a smoother and potentially more comfortable typing experience, which is ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a stronger push and desire a more pronounced and solid typing experience might lean towards the Cream switch. Its heavier bottom out force provides a greater sense of feedback and tactile satisfaction while typing.

Despite these differences, it is worth noting that both switches fall within the medium range of force. Therefore, if someone is seeking a similar typing experience in terms of actuation and bottom out force, they may find that both the Grapefruit and Cream switches offer comparable results, especially if they prefer a medium-light or medium-heavy force respectively. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.

Travel distance

The KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance being traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall typing experience when using these switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Grapefruit and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches both have a low-pitched sound profile. This means that they offer a bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, the Grapefruit is described as having a "baritone" sound profile that is not quite as deep as a bass but still offers a pleasing tone. On the other hand, the Cream switch is described as resonant, which means it has a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp. Ultimately, both switches provide a pleasant auditory experience, but the Cream switch may offer a more immersive sound.

In terms of feel, the Grapefruit switch is described as polished. This means that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The smoothness of the switch and reduced friction make for a satisfying key travel. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. However, it's worth noting that the Cream switch also has a textured option for users who prefer a noticeable amount of friction when typing. This choice allows for a more personalized feel depending on user preference.

Considering all the available information, both the KTT Grapefruit and Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer unique characteristics. The Grapefruit provides a soft and light feel, while the Cream offers a heftier linear typing experience. In terms of sound, both switches have a low-pitched profile, but the Grapefruit has a baritone sound while the Cream is described as resonant. Additionally, the Grapefruit switch is polished, resulting in a smooth typing experience, while the Cream switch can be buttery or textured, depending on user preference. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, but the choice between them will depend on personal preferences for feel and sound. If a similar typing experience is desired, either switch can be considered based on the available information.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a soft and light typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch would be a suitable choice for you. These switches offer a "baritone" sound profile and a neutral sound that is low-pitched and mellow. Additionally, the Grapefruit switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, if you prefer a heftier linear typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch would be more suitable. These switches provide a deeper sound profile that is low-pitched and resonant, creating an immersive auditory experience. The Cream switch offers a buttery typing sensation, with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience.

Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Grapefruit and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream depends on your personal preferences for typing experience. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and feel when making your choice. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience. In the end, it's all about finding the switch that best suits your needs and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Grapefruit Linear

$3.41 per 10

Learn more

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more