KTT Grapefruit vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to linear mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Grapefruit and the Akko V3 Piano Pro offer unique experiences for users. The KTT Grapefruit switches are praised for their soft and light feel, along with a distinctive sound profile that falls somewhere between baritone and bass. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches are known for their snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a lively and crisp typing experience. While the Grapefruit switches are categorized as low-pitched and neutral, the Piano Pro switches feature a range of characteristics including bouncy, clacky, creamy, and silky. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences. 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
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, we see that the Grapefruit features a polycarbonate top housing while the V3 Piano Pro has a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness that leads to a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both materials have their own unique characteristics, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound aesthetics.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Grapefruit and the V3 Piano Pro utilize nylon for this component. Nylon's ability to absorb sound effectively creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. Despite both switches using the same material for the bottom housing, the impact of this housing on the overall sound and feel of the switch cannot be understated. The usage of nylon in the bottom housing plays a crucial role in enhancing the typing experience by producing a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics.
When it comes to switches with different top and bottom housings, each material brings its unique qualities to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Grapefruit and the V3 Piano Pro respectively creates a balanced typing experience that caters to different sound preferences. Whether you prefer the crispness of polycarbonate or the depth of sound from nylon, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Weight
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equal in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Grapefruit has a lower bottom out force of 53 grams, while the V3 Piano Pro has a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch provides a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the KTT Grapefruit switch. For those who prefer a lighter keystroke, the Grapefruit would be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the V3 Piano Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Grapefruit. The shorter travel distance of the V3 Piano Pro may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Grapefruit may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
The KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch delivers a clacky, resonant sound that is sharp, snappy, and higher-pitched, creating a clean and sharp auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Grapefruit focusing on a softer, deeper tone and the V3 Piano Pro emphasizing a lively and crisp sound signature.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is noted for its bouncy and creamy feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth, buttery typing experience. Both switches aim to enhance typing comfort and efficiency, with the Grapefruit focusing on a sleek and polished feel and the V3 Piano Pro focusing on a lively and silky sensation.
Overall, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Grapefruit brings a softer, bass-heavy sound and a polished, refined typing experience, the V3 Piano Pro delivers a sharp, snappy sound and a bouncy, creamy feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound profile and tactile feedback, users can make an informed decision based on the specific qualities each switch has to offer. Ultimately, both switches provide a rewarding typing experience catered to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, you should consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you value a soft and light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Grapefruit switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy and lively typing experience with a clacky and resonant sound signature, the V3 Piano Pro switch may be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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