KTT Grapefruit vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Grapefruit and Outemu Cream Pink both offer unique features to consider. The KTT Grapefruit is a linear switch that stands out for its soft and light feel, with a distinctive sound profile that is not too deep. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink is also a linear switch, but with less specific attributes mentioned. While the Grapefruit is best known for its 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Polished' characteristics, the Cream Pink lacks in defined categories. The Grapefruit may be appealing to those who prefer a smoother typing experience with a subtle sound, while the Cream Pink might appeal to those looking for a more versatile option. 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
2.00 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
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 Outemu Cream Pink, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, making typing on switches with nylon housings quite satisfying. However, the top housing materials differ between the two switches, with the Grapefruit featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the Cream Pink using a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is stiffer and creates a sharper, more resonant sound profile, while nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, leading to a duller, rounder sound.
Despite their differences in top housing material, the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Cream Pink both provide a unique typing experience due to their nylon bottom housing. The deep and full sound profile produced by nylon is a common feature of both switches, enhancing the overall typing experience. However, the choice of top housing material impacts the sound profile in different ways. The polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit creates a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those seeking a more pronounced typing experience, while the Cream Pink's nylon top housing offers a softer, more muted sound for a gentler typing feel.
In conclusion, while the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Cream Pink share the benefits of a nylon bottom housing, their choice of top housing material sets them apart. The polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit provides a sharper and more resonant sound profile, ideal for those looking for a distinctive typing experience, whereas the Cream Pink's nylon top housing offers a softer and more muted sound. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials contribute to the unique sound profiles and typing experiences of each switch, catering to a variety of preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the KTT Grapefruit linear switch with the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Grapefruit has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a medium-light typing feel. On the other hand, the Cream Pink features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, resulting in a medium-heavy typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel for extended typing sessions may opt for the Grapefruit, while users looking for a more substantial push feel may gravitate towards the Cream Pink for a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm, making them identical in this aspect. This means that when typing on a keyboard with either of these switches, users can expect a consistent key press experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that both switches provide a similar tactile feedback and typing feel, making them suitable options for those who value consistency in their typing experience. Overall, both the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switches offer a reliable and smooth typing experience with their equivalent travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41, whereas the Outemu Cream Pink 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 unique low-pitched and neutral sound profile. This means that users can expect a mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement, suitable for a variety of purposes. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink switch's sound qualities are unknown. While the sound of a switch also depends on factors such as keyboard and keycaps, the Grapefruit switch is likely to provide a deeper and more soothing sound compared to the Cream Pink.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Grapefruit is known for its polished feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. This is achieved through a sleek finish and reduced friction, resulting in smooth key travel. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Cream Pink switch is not specified. Despite this, if the Grapefruit switch provides a polished feel, users can anticipate a similar level of smoothness and comfort when using the Cream Pink switch.
In conclusion, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch stands out for its unique low-pitched sound profile and polished feel, providing users with a soft and light typing experience. While the sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Cream Pink switch are not explicitly stated, users can expect similar results in terms of sound (if neutral) and feel (if polished). Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, with both switches offering a smooth and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a switch. If you are looking for a lighter switch with a soft and light feel, along with a low-pitched sound profile, then the Grapefruit may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a medium-neutral sound profile and a polished finish for smooth key travel, then the Cream Pink may be more suitable. Consider your typing style, preference for sound and feel, as well as your desired bottom out force when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your individual preferences and typing needs.
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