KTT Grapefruit vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Grapefruit and the SP-Star Polaris Gray are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that both offer a unique typing experience. The Grapefruit switches are best known for their soft and light feel, providing a tarty linear switch experience. These switches also produce a deep sound profile, resembling a baritone tone. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches are preferred by those who enjoy a bouncy typing experience. These switches have a clean and clacky sound profile and offer a mild tactile feedback. While these general characteristics provide a good starting point for choosing the right switch, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the SP-Star Polaris Gray have some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for more vibrant and visually appealing effects.
However, the bottom housing materials of the Grapefruit and the Polaris Gray differ. The Grapefruit employs a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon's softer composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which shares similar characteristics to its top housing. It contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, complementing the overall profile of the switch.
When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing's qualities will be more pronounced in the bottom-out sound and feel. The impact and tactile feedback during keystrokes are influenced by the bottom housing material. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key will be largely influenced by the top housing material. Therefore, the choice of housing materials in these switches allows for a balanced and nuanced typing experience, combining the unique properties of both nylon and polycarbonate.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of the Grapefruit switch is 45 grams, while the Polaris Gray switch's actuation force is unknown. However, the Grapefruit switch has a bottom out force of 53 grams, whereas the Polaris Gray switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it heavier.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Grapefruit switch would be a suitable choice as its actuation force is relatively light. This lighter actuation force allows for ease of typing and is particularly beneficial for individuals who type for extended periods, such as during work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial, tactile typing experience may opt for the Polaris Gray switch, as its heavier bottom out force provides a stronger push feel. This can enhance the overall typing experience and provide a more satisfying feedback when pressing the keys.
While the actuation force of the Polaris Gray switch is unavailable, it is important to note that the difference in bottom out force between the two switches indicates that the Polaris Gray switch would likely require a relatively higher actuation force as well. Therefore, if one desires a similar typing experience to the Grapefruit switch but desires a heavier bottom out force, the Polaris Gray switch may provide similar results despite the specific actuation force being unknown. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and the desired weight of the keyboard for different purposes.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray 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. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile experience when using these switches. They both offer a consistent and comfortable travel distance for typing or gaming purposes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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
The KTT Grapefruit switches are known for their soft and light feel, providing a unique typing experience. On the sound front, these switches produce a low-pitched sound profile, giving off a deep yet not quite bass-heavy tone. They offer a neutral switch profile, meaning they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. When it comes to feel, the Grapefruit switches are polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish that ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, the Grapefruit switches provide a pleasant typing experience with their soft and light feel, along with a baritone sound profile.
As for the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches, they are favored by those who enjoy a bouncy typing sensation. The sound profile of the Polaris Gray switches is described as clean and clacky. Similar to the Grapefruit switches, they also offer a low-pitched sound profile, which means they have a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. Additionally, they have a neutral switch profile, making them suitable for various users and settings. Furthermore, the Polaris Gray switches are polished, resulting in a sleek typing experience characterized by reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, these switches deliver a mild typing experience that falls within a safe and approachable middle-ground zone, both in terms of feel and sound.
In conclusion, both the KTT Grapefruit and SP-Star Polaris Gray switches share certain qualities. They both offer a neutral switch profile, providing a balanced actuation force requirement and sound profile suitable for most users. Additionally, they both have a low-pitched sound profile, which gives a deeper and more mellow tone. They also share the benefit of having a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the Grapefruit switches have a softer and lighter feel, and a baritone sound profile, the Polaris Gray switches provide a bouncy typing experience along with a clean and clacky sound profile. Depending on individual preferences, either of these switches can provide a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a soft and light typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is a great choice. These switches offer a pleasant and unique feel, with a "baritone" sound profile that is not overly bass-heavy. The Grapefruit switches are suitable for both beginners and advanced users, making them versatile for various settings such as home or work. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is a fantastic option. These switches have a clean and clacky sound profile, and the mild feel ensures a gentle typing experience. The polished finish of both switches provides smooth and refined key travel, reducing friction and enhancing the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Grapefruit and Polaris Gray switches depends on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
