KTT Grapefruit vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Dustproof Black mechanical keyboard switches, one notable difference is the sound profile and feel they offer. The Grapefruit switches are renowned for their unique characteristics, providing a soft and light touch with a subtle deep sound quality, making it ideal for those who prefer a 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Polished' typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black switches have a more mysterious appeal since not much information is available about them, leaving users guessing about what they offer in terms of sound and feel. Both switches have their own advantages and appeal to different preferences in terms of typing experience. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Dustproof Black, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate lends itself well to RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for switch housings aiming for aesthetic appeal. Since both switches share this material for their top housing, users can expect similar sound characteristics between the two.
However, where the Grapefruit and Dustproof Black differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Grapefruit incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This is because nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, meaning that this particular aspect of the switch's sound profile will be consistent between the two despite the difference in their top housings.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Dustproof Black provides users with a balanced sound profile. While both switches offer the sharp and crisp characteristics of polycarbonate in their top housings, they also deliver the deeper and fuller tones associated with nylon in their bottom housings. This split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience, with each housing material contributing uniquely to the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch differ significantly. The Grapefruit switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Dustproof Black switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Those who enjoy a stronger push when typing would likely prefer the Dustproof Black switch over the Grapefruit switch. Overall, the weight of the switches plays a crucial role in determining the typing experience, with lighter switches being preferred for extended typing sessions and heavier switches for a more robust typing feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom will be identical. As a result, users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of the key travel distance when using either switch. This feature makes both switches suitable for those who prefer a consistent key feel and feedback. Overall, both the Grapefruit and Dustproof Black switches provide a standard travel distance, making them suitable options for users seeking a linear switch with a reliable typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41, whereas the Outemu Dustproof Black 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for a variety of uses. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch's sound qualities are unknown, making it harder to gauge its auditory performance without further information. When it comes to feel, the Grapefruit switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, the feel of the Dustproof Black switch is not specified, making it challenging to compare the two switches in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing comfort.
Considering the available information, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch stands out for its unique sound profile and polished feel, making it a popular choice for those seeking a soft and light typing experience with a low-pitched and neutral sound. While the qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Black switch remain unknown, it's important to note that individual preferences for sound and feel can greatly influence the overall typing experience. As such, if you enjoy the characteristics of the Grapefruit switch, you may find similar results with the Dustproof Black switch, but it's recommended to try both switches firsthand to determine which one best suits your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Grapefruit linear switch or the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, you'll want to take into account the bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel of each switch. If you prefer a softer, lighter feel with a medium-light bottom out force and a low-pitched sound profile, the Grapefruit switch would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile, the Dustproof Black may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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