KTT Grapefruit vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Grapefruit and Outemu Blue offer unique typing experiences. The KTT Grapefruit is a linear switch that is known for its soft and light feel, with a "baritone" sound profile that is not too deep. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is a clicky switch that provides a satisfying click with each keystroke. While the Grapefruit is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Polished', the Blue does not have a specific categorization. If you prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience, the Grapefruit may be the way to go. However, if you enjoy the tactile feedback and audible click of a clicky switch, the Outemu Blue could be the right choice for you. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Blue is that the Grapefruit features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Blue has both top and bottom housings made of polycarbonate. Both switches use polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches equipped with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Grapefruit's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
Despite the differences in their housing materials, both the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Blue provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The split design of the Grapefruit allows for a more varied typing experience as the qualities of each housing material are felt differently when pressing down on a key versus releasing it. The Blue, with its uniform polycarbonate construction, offers a consistent sound profile throughout the typing process. While the Grapefruit's nylon bottom housing may create a fuller sound, the Blue's all-polycarbonate build ensures a cohesive and harmonious typing experience. Overall, both switches excel in delivering distinctive sound characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Blue play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience of each switch. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches results in a sharper and crisper sound, with the translucency of the material being beneficial for switches featuring RGB lighting. However, the Grapefruit's additional nylon bottom housing allows for a deeper and fuller sound, in contrast to the Blue's consistent polycarbonate construction. Whether one prefers the varied typing experience of the Grapefruit or the uniform sound profile of the Blue, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the Grapefruit is the lighter option. The Grapefruit has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light in terms of force required. On the other hand, the Blue switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Both switches offer a different typing experience; the Grapefruit provides a lighter touch, which is ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Blue switch gives a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. So, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide a similar typing experience. It is worth noting that while both switches have the same travel distance, the tactile feedback and sound produced by each switch will differ, with the Grapefruit switch being linear and the Blue switch being clicky.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41, whereas the Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10.
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
When comparing the sound qualities of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, the Grapefruit offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Blue switch's sound characteristics are unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Grapefruit is known for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the feel of the Blue switch is not specified, it is safe to assume that it may offer a different typing experience compared to the Grapefruit due to its clicky nature.
Overall, it is important to consider both sound and feel when choosing a mechanical keyboard switch. If you are looking for a linear switch with a low-pitched sound and polished feel, the KTT Grapefruit may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with unknown sound and feel characteristics, the Outemu Blue switch could also be a suitable option. Ultimately, the best way to determine which switch is right for you is to try them out and see which one aligns with your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Grapefruit linear switch or the Outemu Blue clicky switch, you should go for the Grapefruit if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a soft and light feel with a unique "baritone" sound profile. The Grapefruit is also best suited for those who prefer low-pitched and neutral sound profiles, as well as a polished typing experience with reduced friction. On the other hand, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a specific bottom out force or sound profile, the Blue may not be the best option for you as that information is currently unavailable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of typing experience, sound, and feel.
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