KTT Grapefruit vs. Haimu Orange Sea

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Grapefruit and Haimu Orange Sea switches offer distinctly different experiences, even though both are linear switches. The KTT Grapefruit stands out with its soft and light typing feel, delivering a delightful tactile sensation while producing a low-pitched and polished sound profile. This makes it an excellent choice for users who value a gentle touch and prefer a less audible typing experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea switches are celebrated for their impeccably smooth type feel and neutral sound signature, appealing to those who want a seamless keystroke without the distraction of varying sound pitches. Both switches cater to different preferences in typing sensation and acoustic feedback, making them attractive options for different types of users. 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

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

$3.41 per 10

$2.79 per 10

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Housing materials

The KTT Grapefruit and the Haimu Orange Sea switches share a commonality in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a similar auditory experience and aesthetic appeal. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, a material known for its stiffness, which enhances the crispness and clarity of the sound profile. This stiffer plastic contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound when keying, ensuring a vibrant and resonant feedback that is particularly amplified when the switches are equipped with RGB lighting. The translucency of the polycarbonate not only improves the visual aesthetics of the switches but also allows for effective light diffusion, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who prioritize both sound quality and visual effects.

Contrastingly, the bottom housing of both the KTT Grapefruit and the Haimu Orange Sea is made from nylon. This choice adds a distinctively different auditory character to the overall keypress experience. Nylon, being a softer plastic, produces a deeper and fuller sound profile that contrasts with the sharper tones from the polycarbonate top. The sound damping qualities of nylon enable it to absorb more sound, creating a rounder and more subdued tonal quality during typing. This difference ensures that while the top housing provides brightness and clarity, the bottom housing introduces warmth and depth, leading to a balanced sound profile when the keys are pressed.

The impact of the differing materials is crucial in shaping the overall feel and sound during use. When typing on either the Grapefruit or the Orange Sea switches, the polycarbonate top housing will contribute predominantly to the sound generated upon key release, while the nylon bottom housing influences the bottom-out feel and sound. As a result, users will experience the distinct auditory contrast generated by the combination of both materials, enhancing the sensory experience of typing. Ultimately, despite the differences in housing materials, both switches deliver a harmonious blend of sound profiles, offering a unique yet cohesive typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Grapefruit linear switch to the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Grapefruit switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which classifies it as medium-light. In contrast, the Orange Sea switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Orange Sea provides a softer touch, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Grapefruit will deliver a more substantial push feel due to its heavier forces. Therefore, the Grapefruit is the heavier option between the two, catering to those who enjoy a more tactile engagement when typing. Overall, while both switches can offer pleasant typing experiences, the choice between them will largely depend on personal preferences regarding actuation and bottom out force.

Travel distance

The KTT Grapefruit linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This 0.4 mm difference means that the Grapefruit switch offers a more substantial depth when pressed, catering to users who prefer a more pronounced keypress experience. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Orange Sea may appeal to gamers and others looking for quicker response times, as shorter travel distances can facilitate faster actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for tactile feedback and response speed; those who favor a deeper engagement would likely gravitate towards the Grapefruit, while those seeking agility might opt for the Orange Sea.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Grapefruit switches have a distinctive tone characterized by a low-pitched profile that sits comfortably between baritone and bass. This bass-heavy quality can create a warm ambiance that many users find appealing for both home and work settings. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea switches feature a neutral sound signature, which means they maintain a balanced tone that doesn't favor either high or low frequencies. This neutrality allows them to blend seamlessly into various environments, appealing to users who seek an unobtrusive auditory experience. However, sound will still vary based on the keyboard build and keycap material, so results may differ depending on the setup.

In terms of feel, the Grapefruit switches excel with their polished finish, which contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience. This meticulous craftsmanship minimizes friction and allows for fluid key travel, making each keystroke feel effortless and enjoyable. On the other hand, the feel of the Haimu Orange Sea switches remains unknown, leaving potential users to speculate on their tactile experience. Given that there is no comparative detail on the Orange Sea's feel, one can assume it may offer an alternative experience that might either complement or contrast with the Grapefruit's polished characteristics.

Overall, the KTT Grapefruit and Haimu Orange Sea linear switches present intriguing options for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard hobby. If you're drawn to a low-pitched, bass-influenced sound with a polished and smooth feel, the Grapefruit switches would be a fantastic choice. Conversely, if you're seeking a more neutral sound profile and are open to exploring an unspecified feel, the Orange Sea could prove to be an interesting alternative. Ultimately, both switches provide unique facets that can cater to different preferences, making the selection process another delightful aspect of customizing a mechanical keyboard.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing style and preferences. If you prefer a switch that offers a medium-light feel with a slightly firmer bottom-out force of 53 grams, the Grapefruit would likely suit you best. Its unique sound profile, with its low-pitched and tarty character, can be particularly appealing if you're looking for a more dynamic auditory experience while typing. This is especially advantageous for those who enjoy a tactile feedback sensation in their keystrokes without the distraction of overly loud sounds. On the other hand, if you're after a lighter switch with a more effortless keystroke, the Haimu Orange Sea, with its bottom-out force of only 45 grams, can be an excellent choice. Known for its impeccably smooth typing feel and neutral sound signature, the Orange Sea is versatile enough for all environments, making it a great option for both gaming and professional use, especially if you work in quieter spaces. Ultimately, your decision should factor in not just the characteristics of each switch but also the environment in which you plan to use them and the kind of feedback you desire during your typing sessions.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Grapefruit Linear

$3.41 per 10

Learn more

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

$2.79 per 10

Learn more