KTT Grapefruit vs. Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out - the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch. The KTT Grapefruit is well-known for its smooth and light feel, with a subtle yet satisfying sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade offers a quiet typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump and a distinctive "thocky" sound. While the Grapefruit switch provides a low-pitched and polished typing experience, the Silent Yellow Jade switch delivers a punchy tactile feedback. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 Silent Yellow Jade, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housing. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches as nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. However, the Grapefruit stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's relatively stiffer nature, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow Jade features a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it becomes apparent that the qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent during the pressing down of a key. The nylon bottom housing of both the Grapefruit and Silent Yellow Jade contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, creating a deeper, fuller experience when typing on these switches. In contrast, the top housing of the switches plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Silent Yellow Jade provides a deeper and fuller sound.
While both switches share a common nylon bottom housing, their differing top housing materials result in distinct sound profiles. The Grapefruit's polycarbonate top housing enhances its sound with a sharper and crisper tone, ideal for users looking for a more defined typing experience. In comparison, the Silent Yellow Jade's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, catering to those who prefer a rounder and less distinct sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch show distinct differences. The Grapefruit has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Yellow Jade has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a stronger push. The weight of a switch is crucial as it can impact typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer longer typing sessions may opt for the lighter Grapefruit switch, while users seeking a more tactile and heavy typing experience may choose the Silent Yellow Jade. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches offer unique options for different preferences in typing dynamics.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm, making it shorter than the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4mm. While both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, the Silent Yellow Jade offers a slightly shorter travel distance, catering to those who prefer a quicker response time. On the other hand, the Grapefruit switch provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Yellow Jade 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 offers a unique sound profile with a low-pitched and neutral tone, providing a deep and mellow typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch provides a quiet and tactile typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound. The Grapefruit switch has a polished feel, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction for a sleek typing experience. While the subjective qualities of the Silent Yellow Jade in terms of feel are unknown, it is likely to provide a different tactile feel compared to the Grapefruit. Overall, if you prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with a polished feel, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a quiet, tactile typing experience with a unique "thocky" sound, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter touch, the Grapefruit with its 53-gram bottom out force may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier touch, the Silent Yellow Jade with its 65-gram bottom out force could be the better choice. Additionally, consider the sound and feel characteristics of each switch. If you prefer a low-pitched sound and a polished feel, the Grapefruit may be more appealing to you. However, if you prefer a quiet, thocky sound and a unique translucent housing, the Silent Yellow Jade might be the way to go. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of typing experience, sound profile, and aesthetics.
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