KTT Grapefruit vs. Gateron Quinn

Overview

The KTT Grapefruit and Gateron Quinn are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique experiences for users. The Grapefruit switches are best known for their soft and light feel, accompanied by a "baritone" sound profile. These linear switches are categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and polished. On the other hand, the Quinn switches offer a distinct combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. Thanks to their specially designed nylon housings, each keystroke produces a rich and immersive sound that adds character to the typing experience. These switches are categorized as snappy, bassy, polished, bouncy, clacky, accented, buttery, creamy, low-pitched, and resonant. Both switches have their own appealing features, allowing users to customize their typing experience according to their preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.

By the numbers

KTT Grapefruit Linear

Gateron Quinn Tactile

$3.41 per 10

$6.00

$5.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Gateron Quinn differ in terms of their composition and the resulting sound profiles. The Grapefruit features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate produces a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent quality of polycarbonate allows for the effective transmission of RGB lighting. In contrast, the Quinn utilizes a nylon top housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall.

When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Grapefruit and the Quinn employ nylon as the material of choice. The use of nylon in switch housings contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, regardless of whether it is the Grapefruit or the Quinn, the bottom housing material will have a similar impact on the sound and feel when typing.

However, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings differ for a specific switch, as is the case with the Grapefruit, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel upon pressing down on the switch, the top housing will primarily influence the sound when releasing a key. This means that the polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit will contribute to a distinct sound when compared to the Quinn's nylon top housing.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Grapefruit has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Quinn requires a slightly heavier force of 59 grams to initiate a keystroke. This means that the Grapefruit switch may feel more responsive and require less effort for typing or gaming tasks.

However, when it comes to bottoming out, the forces required are also different. The Grapefruit has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Quinn has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This indicates that the Quinn switch may provide a more substantial and tactile typing experience, as it requires a stronger push to fully press the keys.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Grapefruit would be the preferable choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without as much fatigue. On the other hand, the Quinn switch would be more suited for users who prefer a heavier and more satisfying keystroke feel.

In terms of similarities, both switches have a medium level of actuation and bottom out forces. This means that, although there are differences in the actual force required, the general typing experience provided by both switches would be similar in terms of key responsiveness and overall feel.

Travel distance

The KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch have different travel distances. The Grapefruit has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered more traditional, while the Quinn has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. For those who prefer a quicker response time, the Quinn would be the better option due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers, in particular, often prefer switches with shorter travel distances for faster reaction times. On the other hand, for individuals who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming, the Grapefruit with its longer travel distance would be the preferred choice. The longer travel distance can provide a deeper and more pronounced key press. Ultimately, the decision on which switch to choose depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The KTT Grapefruit linear switch is best known for its soft and light feel, offering a unique typing experience. The sound profile of the Grapefruit switch can be described as low-pitched, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This creates a baritone sound that adds a touch of depth to the typing experience. The feel of the Grapefruit switch is polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel for a sleek typing experience.

On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a crisp and light switch-like tactility. The specially designed nylon housings contribute to a deep and resonant sound profile, characterized by a rich and immersive sound with a lower frequency range similar to bass tones. The Quinn switch also has a clacky sound, producing sharp and snappy sounds when pressed. In terms of feel, the Quinn switch is described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience. It is also polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Quinn switch offers a precise, clean, and crisp tactile bump, giving users a precise and satisfying typing sensation.

Based on the available information, the Grapefruit and Quinn switches offer different subjective qualities. The Grapefruit switch provides a soft and light feel with a low-pitched sound profile, while the Quinn switch offers a crisp and light tactility with a deep and resonant sound. Both switches have a polished feel, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a switch with a softer feel and a more bass-heavy sound, the Grapefruit switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a crisp tactile bump and a deeper and resonant sound, the Quinn switch would be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prefer a softer and lighter linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Grapefruit switches would be an excellent choice for you. These switches offer a unique soft and light feel, accompanied by a "baritone" sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Quinn switches would be more suitable. These switches provide a precise and crisp tactile bump, as well as a deep and resonant sound profile. With each keystroke, you'll experience a rich and immersive sound that adds character to your typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for switch feel and sound. So, whether you prefer the soft and light feel of the Grapefruit switches or the crisp and tactile feel of the Quinn switches, both options offer their own unique advantages for a satisfying typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Grapefruit Linear

$3.41 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Quinn Tactile

$6.00

$5.50 per 10

Learn more