KTT Grapefruit vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the choice between the KTT Grapefruit and the HMX Poro mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts will find two distinct yet appealing options in the realm of linear switches. The KTT Grapefruit switches are celebrated for their soft and light typing feel, offering a unique "baritone" sound profile that provides a satisfying auditory feedback without being overly disruptive. Their low-pitched, neutral characteristics make them a great choice for users seeking a gentle typing experience that still allows for speed and accuracy. On the other hand, the HMX Poro switches excel in delivering an incredibly smooth keystroke, thanks to meticulous lubrication that ensures an effortless glide. Their notably light actuation force combines with a poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a more pronounced tactile response with each keystroke. Each switch caters to different user preferences—the Grapefruit for those who appreciate a subtle touch and sound, and the Poro for those who prefer a more dynamic and responsive experience. 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
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the HMX Poro switches, we see a distinct contrast in their top housing compositions. The Grapefruit utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic is a result of polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more resonant sound resonance that is enhanced further when RGB lighting is integrated, thanks to its translucent nature. In contrast, the HMX Poro features a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. As nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs more sound, leading to a duller, rounder auditory experience that is markedly different from the sharper output of polycarbonate.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, however, we note significant similarity. Both the Grapefruit and the Poro utilize nylon for their bottom housing, delivering a deep and full sound profile. The use of nylon in this component ensures a consistent auditory experience across both models, as the softer plastic's sound-absorbing properties result in a rounder bottom-out sound. Therefore, when typing on switches made from these materials, the feel and sound produced are likely to share similarities grounded in the characteristics of nylon, regardless of the differences in their top housing.
The interaction between the top and bottom housings in both switches further emphasizes their unique sound profiles. While the nylon bottom housing governs the impact of the bottom-out sound and feel, the polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit brings a distinct brightness to the sound when a key is released. Conversely, the HMX Poro's all-nylon design ensures a more cohesive and uniform auditory experience, with its softer housing materials both absorbing and muting the sound during key release. Ultimately, while the two models differ in their top housing materials leading to varying sound profiles, the shared nylon bottom housing helps maintain a balanced tactile feedback and auditory consistency, making both switches appealing options depending on the desired acoustic characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, both share the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means they will provide a similar tactile experience when it comes to initiating a keystroke. However, their bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Grapefruit requiring 53 grams to bottom out, while the Poro only needs 50 grams. This indicates that the Poro is the lighter option overall, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing sessions, while the Grapefruit's heavier bottom out force offers a more substantial feel at the end of the key travel. Thus, for those who prefer a lighter touch, the HMX Poro linear switch would be the better choice, while users seeking a firmer typing experience may find the KTT Grapefruit more appealing.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Poro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This difference indicates that the Grapefruit switch offers a more pronounced depth, which may appeal to users who prefer a more tactile response when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Poro switch, with its shorter travel distance, is likely to provide a quicker actuation, catering to those who favor faster response times, especially gamers who thrive on rapid keystrokes. Ultimately, if you desire a heartier feel during your key presses, the Grapefruit is the better option, whereas the Poro is ideal for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Poro has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poro for $2.99.
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 linear switch is characterized by its unique sound profile, which can be described as low-pitched and neutral. This combination produces a subtle baritone tone that is deep and mellow without reaching the heaviness of bass. This makes the Grapefruit suitable for a variety of environments, from home to office, as the sound is neither intrusive nor overly pronounced. In contrast, the HMX Poro linear switch offers a delightfully poppy and clacky sound, thanks to its ultra-light actuation force. While the specific characteristics of the Poro's sound are not explicitly detailed, its reputation for producing a satisfyingly sharp auditory feedback suggests it may lean towards a brighter tone in comparison, creating a more engaging acoustic experience.
When considering the feel of these two switches, the KTT Grapefruit stands out with its polished finish. This smooth finish translates to a refined typing experience with reduced friction and seamless key travel, enhancing overall comfort during prolonged use. The factory lubrication also contributes to this silky sensation, making it pleasant for both casual typing and gaming. Conversely, the HMX Poro linear switch is designed for effortless glide with meticulous lubrication, which promises a smooth and enjoyable keystroke. However, further details regarding the specific feel of the Poro switch are not provided, leaving a gap in direct comparison, though both switches emphasize smoothness.
In conclusion, both the KTT Grapefruit and HMX Poro linear switches deliver a unique experience with their own sound and feel characteristics. The Grapefruit excels in low-pitched, mellow acoustics and polished tactile feedback, suitable for a wide range of uses. Meanwhile, the Poro offers a lighter, more crisp auditory profile with an emphasis on smooth key presses. While both switches aim for a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, the Grapefruit leans towards a deeper sound while the Poro promotes a poppy response. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, but you can expect satisfying performance from either switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences in terms of sound profile, actuation force, and tactile experience. If you're looking for a switch that offers a balanced experience with a medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams, the KTT Grapefruit might be the right choice. Its soft feel and rich, low-pitched sound make it suitable for comfortable typing in various environments, whether at home or at work. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force with a silky smooth keystroke and a more engaging poppy sound profile, the HMX Poro, with its 50-gram bottom-out force, could enhance your overall typing enjoyment. Its meticulously lubricated mechanics ensure an effortless glide, making it perfect for those who appreciate a refined and responsive feel. In essence, consider the Grapefruit for a subdued yet refined experience while opting for the Poro if you desire a tactile, vibrant, and smooth typing adventure.
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