KTT Grapefruit vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that come to mind are the KTT Grapefruit and the HC Studio Roselle, both being linear switches. The KTT Grapefruit stands out for its soft and light feel, accompanied by a "baritone" sound profile. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle is celebrated for its incredibly smooth and ethereal sensation, with a subtle, low-pitched sound signature. While the Grapefruit is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', the Roselle falls into categories such as 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. Both switches offer unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences. 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
52g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the HC Studio Roselle, it is evident that they both prioritize sound profiles, albeit in different ways. The Grapefruit utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Roselle's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials excel in enhancing sound quality, they offer distinct auditory experiences to the user.
When it comes to the bottom housings, the contrast between the Nylon bottom housing of the Grapefruit and the POM bottom housing of the Roselle is less pronounced. Both materials contribute to creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, with Nylon being softer and absorbing more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The POM bottom housing of the Roselle offers a similar deep and muted sound profile. Therefore, in terms of sound quality produced by the bottom housings, users can expect comparable results from both switches.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Grapefruit and the HC Studio Roselle will come down to personal preference in terms of sound. The Grapefruit's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharp and resonant sound, while the Roselle's POM top housing offers a deeper and more subdued audio experience. The similarities in their bottom housing materials ensure that both switches deliver a satisfyingly robust sound quality. Ultimately, users can select the switch that best suits their auditory preferences for a unique typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, we find that both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Grapefruit has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Roselle has a bottom out force of 52 grams, making the Roselle slightly lighter in terms of bottoming out. Considered medium-light switches, both offer a balance between requiring a gentle touch for actuation while still providing a satisfying typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Roselle may be the better choice due to its slightly lighter bottom out force. Those who prefer a slightly more substantial typing experience may opt for the Grapefruit with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is 4 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Grapefruit has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Roselle, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the Roselle's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or individuals looking for a quicker response time. Both switches offer a different typing experience and preference may vary depending on individual needs. Ultimately, selecting the switch with the preferred travel distance will enhance the overall typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HC Studio Roselle has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Roselle for $4.70.
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 offers a low-pitched sound profile that is neutral, providing a mellow tone during key presses suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch delivers a bassy sound with a low-pitched frequency, creating a deeper and richer sound experience. Both switches provide a unique auditory experience, with the Grapefruit leaning towards a more moderate tone, while the Roselle offers a richer and more bass-heavy sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the KTT Grapefruit is known for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the HC Studio Roselle switch is described as frictionless, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with fluid key travel. The Roselle switch also provides a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users, making it a safe choice for those who prefer a gentle feel while typing.
Overall, both the KTT Grapefruit and HC Studio Roselle linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Grapefruit switch provides a neutral sound with a polished feel, the Roselle switch delivers a bassy sound with a frictionless and mild typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience, with the Grapefruit switch catering to those who prefer a more moderate tone and refined feel, while the Roselle switch appeals to users looking for a richer sound and effortless typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, but both are sure to provide a high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a low-pitched sound profile with a light and soft typing experience, the Grapefruit switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for an impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy typing sensation with a subtle, low-pitched sound signature, the Roselle switch might be more appealing. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to choose based on your individual typing style and preferences for sound and feel.
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