KTT Grapefruit vs. KTT Pine

Overview

The KTT Grapefruit and KTT Pine are two highly sought-after mechanical keyboard switches that each offer their unique features. The Grapefruit switches are known for their soft and light feel, providing a comfortable typing experience. These linear switches also have a distinctive sound profile, described as "baritone" with a hint of depth. On the other hand, the Pine switches are translucent and sport a forest green color. Designed to offer a medium-heavy weight, these switches ensure a buttery smooth typing experience. The factory-lubed finish reduces friction and allows for seamless key travel. While the Grapefruit switches are categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and polished, the Pine switches are described as bassy, buttery, creamy, and low-pitched. Both switches have their own advantages, but let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on which switch best suits your needs.

By the numbers

KTT Grapefruit Linear

KTT Pine Linear

$3.41 per 10

$4.60

$4.15 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the KTT Pine have some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, providing a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is especially advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows for better light diffusion. Thus, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic experiences from the polycarbonate top housings of both switches.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Grapefruit and Pine differ. The Grapefruit employs a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Pine utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning with its top housing material. This choice allows the Pine to maintain the sharper and higher-pitched sound profile associated with polycarbonate.

When using a switch with different top and bottom housings, it is important to note that the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will primarily come from the bottom housing. Conversely, the top housing will have more influence on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction underscores the importance of considering both the top and bottom housing materials when selecting a switch, as they contribute to the overall typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both. This ensures that users will get similar results in terms of responsiveness and speed. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a distinction. The Grapefruit has a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch, while the Pine has a bottom out force of 58 grams, classifying it as a medium switch. This means that the Pine switch requires slightly more force to fully press the key down compared to the Grapefruit. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience and the ability to type for longer periods without fatigue, the Grapefruit may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if users desire a more substantial and satisfying typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Pine switch with its slightly heavier bottom out force would be a suitable option. Ultimately, the decision would depend on personal preferences and the intended use of the keyboard.

Travel distance

The KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and comfortable keypress experience with their identical travel distances. Therefore, whether you choose the Grapefruit or the Pine switch, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of the travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile with a mellow and bass-heavy tone. This gives it a baritone-like quality, though not quite reaching the depths of a bass sound. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch produces a deeper and richer sound with a bassy tone. It offers a lower frequency range, providing a more pronounced depth and richness similar to bass tones. Both switches have a low-pitched sound characteristic, but the Pine switch emphasizes a more distinct bass profile. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and the keycaps used.

As for feel, the KTT Grapefruit switch is polished, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, reducing friction and providing smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switch is described as buttery and creamy in feel. This implies a smooth, fluid, and effortless keystroke experience. It offers a seamless and uniform typing sensation that feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. Both switches prioritize providing a smooth typing experience, with the Grapefruit switch emphasizing a polished finish for reduced friction, while the Pine switch focuses on a buttery and creamy sensation.

In conclusion, the KTT Grapefruit and Pine linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Grapefruit switch provides a soft and light feel along with a low-pitched sound profile that leans towards baritone tones. It offers a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Pine switch is medium-heavy and delivers a buttery smooth feel with a bassy sound profile, providing a rich and deeper tone. While these switches have their own unique characteristics, if you are looking for a switch with a smooth feel and low-pitched sound, both options can provide similar results with slight variations in depth and richness. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the overall typing experience desired.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a soft and light feel, along with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit switch is your best choice. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it offers a medium-light typing experience. The Grapefruit switch is also polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a buttery smooth typing experience, the KTT Pine switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, the Pine switch provides an effortless typing experience. It has a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. The Pine switch is also described as creamy, providing a silky sensation as you glide your fingers across the keys.

Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Grapefruit and Pine switches comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize a light and neutral feel with a polished finish, go for the Grapefruit. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a buttery smooth and creamy typing experience, opt for the Pine.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Grapefruit Linear

$3.41 per 10

Learn more

KTT Pine Linear

$4.60

$4.15 per 10

Learn more