KTT Grapefruit vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options you might consider are the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch. The KTT Grapefruit switches are unique for their soft and light feel, providing a pleasant typing experience with a "baritone" sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green switches are known for their tactile feedback and satisfying clicky sound. While the Grapefruit switch is best for a low-pitched and neutral typing experience, the Dustproof Green switch offers a more tactile and audible 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
65g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Dustproof Green, it is evident that both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. As a result, both switches will produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, due to the stiffness of polycarbonate creating a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. The difference may lie in the design or color variations between the two switches, but in terms of sound profile, users can expect similar results.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Grapefruit and Dustproof Green utilize nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel between the two switches, highlighting the importance of the bottom housing in shaping the overall sound profile of a switch.
Despite the differences in top and bottom housing materials between the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Dustproof Green, the qualities each material brings to the switches are complementary. The impact of the bottom housing will be felt more during bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a balanced typing experience, with the characteristics of both polycarbonate and nylon contributing to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch are quite different. The Grapefruit has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In comparison, the Dustproof Green has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, categorizing it as a heavy switch. The Grapefruit is ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on one's preference for actuation force and bottom out force, with lighter options being more suitable for longer typing sessions and heavier options offering a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. The travel distance of both switches allows for smooth and consistent typing experience. Therefore, whether you choose the Grapefruit or the Dustproof Green switch, you can expect to get similar results in terms of key press feel and 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 Dustproof Green 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 and neutral sound profile. These switches produce a deep and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch is not available. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is praised for its polished feel. This suggests that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, details about the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch are unknown. By choosing the Grapefruit switch, you can expect a premium typing experience with its polished feel.
In conclusion, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch stands out for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, as well as its polished feel which offers smooth and refined key travel. While information on the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch is lacking, choosing the Grapefruit switch may provide a satisfying typing experience with similarly positive qualities. Remember to consider factors such as personal preference, typing style, and intended use when selecting a switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, if you are looking for a softer and lighter typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a unique feel and a low-pitched sound profile that can enhance your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and enjoy the satisfying clicky feedback, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound. Experimenting with both switches can help you determine which one suits your typing style the best.
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