KTT Grapefruit vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Grapefruit and Outemu Silent Green both offer unique features worth considering. The KTT Grapefruit is a linear switch that stands out for its soft and light feel, along with a distinctive "baritone" sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green is also a linear switch but lacks standout features in terms of sound profile. The KTT Grapefruit is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Polished', while the Silent Green does not have any specific categorizations. Each switch has its own strengths and weaknesses, making it important to consider what you prioritize in a switch. 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
60g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Silent Green share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, both creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the keyboards. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Grapefruit utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound due to its softer nature. In contrast, the Silent Green's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharper and crisper sound profile, complementing the characteristics of the top housing.
In terms of sound production, the split between the top and bottom housing materials on a switch impacts the overall typing experience. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when a key is released. This distinction highlights the importance of both housing materials in creating a well-rounded typing experience. As such, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate for the bottom housing can significantly alter the sound profile of a switch, adding depth and nuance to the overall typing feel.
Ultimately, the selection of housing materials for a switch comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. The KTT Grapefruit's combination of polycarbonate top housing for a clear, resonant sound and nylon bottom housing for a deeper, fuller sound offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout provides a sharper, crisper sound profile overall. Both switches have their own strengths and cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose the housing material that best suits their typing style and preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Grapefruit has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Silent Green has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. The Grapefruit provides a medium-light typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Silent Green offers a medium typing experience with a more substantial push feel, catering to users who enjoy a heavier typing experience. Both switches have the same actuation force, so if actuation force is the main consideration, users can expect similar results from either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, the distance traveled by the switch from the top to the bottom will be equal. As a result, users can expect a similar feel and typing experience in terms of travel distance with both switches. Therefore, there is no significant difference in the travel distance between the KTT Grapefruit and Outemu Silent Green linear switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41, whereas the Outemu Silent 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 unique soft and light feel, providing a smooth typing experience with a polished finish. Its sound profile is described as low-pitched and neutral, offering a mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green linear switch does not have any specific known qualities in terms of sound or feel. While the Grapefruit switch may offer a more refined typing experience with its polished feel and low-pitched sound, the Silent Green switch is a mystery in terms of subjective qualities. Overall, if you prefer a switch with a softer feel and deeper sound, the Grapefruit may be the better option for you. However, keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Grapefruit linear switch or the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what qualities you prioritize in a switch. If you value a lighter bottom out force, a unique sound profile with a low-pitched and neutral tone, as well as a polished feel for smooth typing, then the KTT Grapefruit switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a silent switch without a specific sound profile or tactile feel mentioned, then the Outemu Silent Green switch could be the right choice. Ultimately, it's important to consider your typing preferences and the qualities that matter most to you when choosing between these two switches.
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