KTT Grapefruit vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Milk Tea. The KTT Grapefruit is a linear switch that is best known for its unique characteristics. These switches offer a soft and light typing experience, with a distinctive "baritone" sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea is a tactile switch, known for its firm tactile bump while typing. Each switch offers a different typing experience, with the Grapefruit being categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Polished', whereas the Milk Tea lacks specific categorization. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Ly
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 Milk Tea, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those seeking a more crisp typing experience. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches ensures that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics when using either switch.
On the other hand, the bottom housing material of the KTT Grapefruit is nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This creates a more rounded and duller sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the Outemu Milk Tea also features a nylon bottom housing, providing users with the same deep and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of nylon housing materials. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when pressing down on the keys.
While the top and bottom housings of the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Milk Tea differ in material, the qualities each housing material brings to the switches contribute to the overall typing experience. The impact that each housing material has on the sound profile and feel of the switches is divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This unique combination of housing materials in both switches ensures a balanced and enjoyable typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation force is the same at 45 grams. However, the Grapefruit has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Milk Tea's bottom out force is unknown. This difference indicates that the Grapefruit is the heavier option between the two switches. The actuation force of both switches being equal means that users can expect a similar initial tactile response when typing. The Grapefruit's slightly higher bottom out force may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer key press, while the Milk Tea's force is unavailable for comparison. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch is equal, as they both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This creates a consistent typing experience across both switches, resulting in similar results in terms of key press feel and feedback. In terms of travel distance, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, making them comparable in this aspect.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41, whereas the Outemu Milk Tea 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 best known for its soft and light feel, along with a low-pitched but not yet bass-deep sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch does not have as much information available about its sound and feel qualities. However, based on the available information, the Grapefruit linear switch offers a more polished and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In terms of sound, the Grapefruit switch provides a low-pitched and neutral tone, suitable for a variety of users and environments. Overall, if you are looking for a switch that offers a smooth typing experience with a mellow and bass-heavy sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch would be a great choice.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a light and smooth typing experience with a soft linear feel and a low-pitched sound profile, the Grapefruit switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with an undefined bottom out force and do not mind the lack of specific sound and feel descriptions, the Milk Tea switch could be a suitable option. It all comes down to your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and switch characteristics. Evaluate these factors carefully to make an informed decision that aligns with your mechanical keyboard preferences.