KTT Grapefruit vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Grapefruit and KTT Rose mechanical keyboard switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Grapefruit switches are best known for their soft and light feel, perfect for those seeking a smooth typing experience. With a "baritone" sound profile, they produce a deep but not overpowering sound. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and polished, these switches provide a comfortable and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Rose switches shine with their progressive springs, offering a substantial but not heavy typing experience. Typing on these switches evokes the sound of bassy raindrops, adding a delightful touch to each keystroke. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished, these switches provide a unique and satisfying typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and KTT Rose switches both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This results in a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound experience. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate allows for the translucency that is particularly advantageous when incorporating RGB lighting. The aesthetic and acoustic benefits of polycarbonate are evident in both the Grapefruit and Rose switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the KTT Grapefruit uses nylon while the KTT Rose also utilizes nylon. These nylon bottom housings contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, attributed to the relatively softer nature of nylon. The sound produced by the Grapefruit and Rose switches differs slightly due to variations in design and other components, but overall, they both offer a rounded and duller sound compared to switches made with harder plastics. This difference in the bottom housing material highlights the impact of the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switches.
In summary, both the KTT Grapefruit and KTT Rose switches share the advantages of polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharp and clear sound profile and facilitating the use of RGB lighting. However, they differ in the material of their bottom housing, with nylon used for both. This difference influences the depth and fullness of the sound when typing, creating a rounder and duller sound profile. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in each switch contributes to their unique sound experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The actuation force of the Grapefruit is 45 grams, while the Rose's actuation force remains unknown. However, the Grapefruit's actuation force can be considered medium-light, allowing for a relatively lighter and easier keystroke activation. In contrast, the bottom out force of the Grapefruit is 53 grams, which indicates a slightly heavier feel when pressing the keys all the way down.
On the other hand, the Rose switch boasts a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This indicates a more substantial typing experience, providing a stronger push feel when fully pressing down the keys. Although the actuation force of the Rose is not specified, it can be inferred that it might align with its medium-heavy bottom out force, offering a consistent and robust keystroke activation.
Considering weight as a factor, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may find the Grapefruit switch more suitable. Its lower actuation force allows for smoother and more effortless typing, making it ideal for work environments or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing sensation can opt for the Rose switch. Its medium-heavy bottom out force enables a more pronounced feel with each keystroke, offering a heightened sense of control and feedback.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Grapefruit is known to be lighter, and the Rose switch's actuation force remains unknown, the difference in their bottom out forces suggests a distinction in the typing experience. The Grapefruit provides a medium-light actuation force and a slightly heavier bottom out force, whereas the Rose switch offers a medium-heavy bottom out force. Thus, selecting either switch will yield varying results in terms of typing feel and weight, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on either key, you will feel the switch travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar tactile experience to the user in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41, whereas the KTT Rose comes in at $3.01.
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 known for its soft and light type feel, providing a comfortable typing experience. It produces a "baritone" sound profile that is not yet as deep as a bass sound. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a uniquely substantial typing experience without feeling heavy. It is equipped with progressive springs that provide a satisfying feel. When typing on the Rose switches, users can expect to hear a bassy raindrop sound.
Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile, which means they produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, they are described as having a neutral sound profile, meaning they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes them suitable for a variety of purposes, whether users are beginners or advanced typists and whether they plan to use them at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the KTT Grapefruit switch is described as polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This switch has a sleek finish and reduced friction, allowing for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch offers a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. It falls within a safe middle-ground zone, providing a comfortable feel. Like the Grapefruit switch, the Rose switch is also described as polished, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the KTT Grapefruit and Rose linear switches have their own unique qualities. The Grapefruit offers a soft and light type feel with a baritone sound profile, while the Rose provides a uniquely substantial typing experience with a bassy raindrop sound. Both switches have low-pitched sound profiles and neutral characteristics, suitable for various users and purposes. Additionally, they are both polished switches, delivering a smooth and refined typing experience. If you are looking for similar qualities in sound and feel, either switch would provide comparable results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a soft and light typing experience with a "baritone" sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch may be the best choice for you. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it provides a medium-light feel that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. This switch also produces a low-pitched and neutral sound, which is bass-heavy and mellow. Additionally, the Grapefruit switch offers a polished feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel, providing a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a substantial yet not heavy typing experience, the KTT Rose linear switch is worth considering. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it offers a medium-heavy feel that provides added feedback while typing. The Rose switch produces a low-pitched and neutral sound, similar to the Grapefruit switch. Additionally, it offers a mild and polished feel, making it approachable to most users and providing a smooth typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Grapefruit and Rose switches depends on your personal preferences in terms of typing experience and sound profile. Whether you prioritize a soft and light feel with a "baritone" sound profile or a substantial yet not heavy typing experience with bassy raindrop sounds, both switches offer unique qualities. Consider your typing style and desired sound when making your decision. In the end, both switches are excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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