KTT Grapefruit vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, they both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Grapefruit is best known for its tarty linear switches, providing a soft and light feel with a deep sound profile that falls between "baritone" and "bass". On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade lacks a specific defining characteristic but offers a clicky experience. While the Grapefruit switch may appeal to those seeking a low-pitched and polished typing experience, the Blue Jade switch might be preferred by individuals who enjoy the precise feedback and audible click of a clicky switch. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Blue Jade both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Grapefruit features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Blue Jade utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both materials have their distinctive characteristics, the polycarbonate in the Grapefruit is stiffer, leading to a more clear and resonant sound, while the nylon in the Blue Jade is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Grapefruit and the Blue Jade utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, the bottom-out sound and feel of both switches are influenced by the nylon bottom housing. However, the impact of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key differs between the two switches. The polycarbonate top housing in the Grapefruit creates a distinct sound when letting go of a key, while the nylon top housing in the Blue Jade offers a different sound experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Blue Jade play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile of each switch. While they both feature nylon bottom housings that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound, the polycarbonate top housing in the Grapefruit creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, whereas the nylon top housing in the Blue Jade offers a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding how each housing material impacts the sound of the switch can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Grapefruit requires 53 grams while the Blue Jade needs 65 grams, making the Blue Jade the heavier switch overall. The actuation force of the Grapefruit allows for a smoother and quicker keystroke, while the heavier actuation force of the Blue Jade provides a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on personal preference, with the Grapefruit being better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch and the Blue Jade for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on whether the user values a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users will get a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. So, whether you opt for the KTT Grapefruit or the Outemu Blue Jade, both will provide you with a satisfying key press that has the same travel distance.
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 Jade 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 it comes to sound, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch offers a low-pitched profile, giving off a bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing. This can provide a soothing and deep sound experience for users. In comparison, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided, but typically clicky switches like the Blue Jade are known for their sharp and satisfying click sound that some users find enjoyable for typing feedback. Both switches offer different sound profiles, with the Grapefruit leaning towards a deeper tone while the Blue Jade likely offering a more pronounced click.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This polished feel can reduce friction and promote smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel for users. As for the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, there is no specific feel descriptor provided, but clicky switches like the Blue Jade generally offer tactile feedback and audible clicks during typing, which some users find satisfying and engaging. While the Grapefruit provides a polished typing experience, the Blue Jade likely offers a more tactile and audible typing experience.
Overall, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Grapefruit provides a deep and mellow sound profile with a polished and smooth typing feel, while the Blue Jade likely offers a sharper click sound with tactile feedback during typing. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the soothing and refined experience of the Grapefruit or the satisfying click and tactility of the Blue Jade to enhance their typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, you should consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a soft and light feel with a deep sound profile and a medium-light bottom out force, the Grapefruit switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clicky typing experience, the Blue Jade switch is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of feel, sound, and bottom out force. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences.
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