KTT Grapefruit vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT grapefruit and the Outemu green stand out as popular choices for different reasons. The KTT grapefruit is a linear switch known for its soft and light feel, along with a unique sound profile that is described as baritone but not quite bass deep. On the other hand, the Outemu green is a clicky switch that offers tactile feedback with each key press. While the grapefruit is categorized as low-pitched, neutral, polished, the green does not have specific categories attached to it. Each switch has its own strengths and weaknesses, making them suitable for different types of users. 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
Standard
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 Grapefruit and the Green both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting. While both switches share this common material in their top housings, they may have different aesthetics or design variations to set them apart.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Grapefruit and the Green both utilize nylon to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This material choice affects the typing experience on these switches, providing a unique sound profile that distinguishes them from switches with different bottom housing materials. While both switches share nylon bottom housings, the typing experience and overall sound may vary slightly based on other design elements of the switches.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in both the Grapefruit and the Green contributes to a balanced sound profile with distinct characteristics. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. These switches offer a blend of different materials to create a satisfying typing experience that may appeal to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch have distinct differences in weight. The Grapefruit has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light in comparison. On the other hand, the Green switch requires a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Grapefruit switch would be the preferred choice. However, if a stronger push feel is desired, the Green switch with its heavier forces would be the better option. In this case, users will likely experience a significant difference in typing feel and performance depending on which switch they choose.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is the same as the Outemu Green clicky switch, with both having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. As a result, the travel distance for both switches is equal, providing a consistent typing experience for users who prefer linear or clicky switches. Both switches offer a similar level of tactile feedback and actuation force, making them suitable options for those seeking a specific typing feel. Ultimately, the travel distance of the KTT Grapefruit and Outemu Green switches is the same, offering users a consistent typing experience regardless of their choice.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41, whereas the Outemu 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
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch is known for its soft and light feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience due to its polished finish. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch does not have a specific description available. In terms of sound, the Grapefruit switch has a low-pitched and neutral profile, offering a deep and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The sound profile of the Green switch is unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. Overall, while the Grapefruit switch offers a unique and pleasant typing experience with its specific sound and feel qualities, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Green switch remain unknown, making it difficult to directly compare the two. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the KTT Grapefruit linear switch or the Outemu Green clicky switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a soft and light typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the Grapefruit switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are looking for a clicky switch that provides auditory feedback with each key press, the Green switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, it is important to try out both switches and see which one feels more comfortable and satisfying for your typing needs.
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