KTT Grapefruit vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience, and two standout options are the KTT Grapefruit and Huano Sakura linear switches. The KTT Grapefruit switches are celebrated for their soft, light feel and deep, baritone sound profile, making them a delightful choice for those who appreciate subtle auditory feedback while typing. Their neutral and polished characteristics cater well to users seeking a balance between tactile sensitivity and sound dampening. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switches are designed for ultimate comfort with their feather-light touch and medium acoustics, ideal for long typing sessions without fatigue. This makes them particularly suitable for writers and gamers alike who prioritize ease of use over extended periods. While both switches provide a linear experience, they cater to different preferences, inviting enthusiasts to explore their unique sensations. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Huano Sakura, notable differences emerge in their top housings. The Grapefruit utilizes polycarbonate, a material that contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This rigidity allows for a clearer resonance, particularly beneficial for those who appreciate RGB lighting, as polycarbonate’s translucency enhances light diffusion. In contrast, the Sakura employs POK material, known for its smoothness and strength. While both materials aim to improve sound profiles, polycarbonate's focus on higher frequencies and clarity contrasts with POK’s emphasis on a smooth, clacky typing experience. Thus, while both switches can potentially deliver an engaging auditory experience, the Grapefruit leans towards a brighter tone, whereas the Sakura provides a more subdued yet consistent sound.
When examining the bottom housings, both the KTT Grapefruit and Huano Sakura incorporate nylon, a classic choice favored for its ability to produce deeper, fuller sounds. The properties of nylon lead to sound absorption, which gives both switches a rounder acoustic signature. Since both use the same nylon material for their bottom housings, we can expect similar results in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel during typing. This shared characteristic means that regardless of the differences in their top housings, the foundational aspects of sound quality and tactile feedback will echo across both models, creating a cohesive typing experience that fans of nylon switches appreciate.
Ultimately, the interplay between the distinct top housing materials and their shared nylon bottoms creates a unique dynamic for both the KTT Grapefruit and the Huano Sakura. The differences in the top materials contribute significantly to the overall sound profile; however, the underlying nylon housings ensure that both switches secure a satisfying depth in sound. As such, enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of tonal experiences depending on their choice, while still benefiting from the beloved characteristics that nylon affords in the switch bottom. The combined effects of these materials illuminate how variations in housing design can cater to individual preferences in tactile feel and auditory satisfaction.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Grapefruit and Huano Sakura linear switches, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Grapefruit switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, while the Sakura switch features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Sakura switch requires less force to actuate and bottom out, making it a more suitable choice for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Grapefruit switch, with its heavier forces, may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Overall, if you favor lighter switches for comfort, the Huano Sakura would be the better option, but if you prefer a heavier feel, the KTT Grapefruit would be more appropriate.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, the Grapefruit features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sakura measures at 3.6 mm. This means that the Grapefruit offers a longer travel distance, aligning with the traditional preference of 4.0 mm for deeper key presses. In contrast, the Sakura's shorter travel distance might appeal to gamers seeking quick and responsive keystrokes, making it a suitable choice for rapid gameplay. Thus, if you value a more pronounced keystroke feel, the KTT Grapefruit would be the better option. Conversely, if you prefer a snappier response with less travel, the Huano Sakura would likely be more to your liking. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for depth versus responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41, whereas the Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50.
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 produces a sound that can be characterized as low-pitched and generally neutral. This gives it a deep and mellow tone, making it a pleasant auditory experience, especially in environments where a softer sound is preferred. The sound profile is also versatile enough to accommodate various settings, from casual gaming to professional workspaces. While the intensity of the sound may depend on the keyboard plate, case, and keycap material, the overall perception is that the Grapefruit switch leans towards being more restrained and versatile.
In terms of feel, the Grapefruit switch stands out for its polished design, which results in a smooth and refined typing experience. This smoothness is largely attributed to the materials used in the construction and may include factory lubing, contributing to minimized friction during key presses. This creates a sleek and pleasurable typing sensation geared towards comfort, ideal for extended use. Unfortunately, the subjective feel of the Huano Sakura linear switch remains unspecified, so one cannot directly compare the tactile experience between the two switches.
In summary, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch offers a low-pitched, mellow sound profile alongside a polished, smooth feel that makes it suitable for a range of typing environments. While the Sakura switch's acoustic and tactile qualities remain unknown, the Grapefruit still delivers a satisfying experience. Ultimately, every mechanical keyboard enthusiast may prioritize different qualities, so even if the switches have distinct characteristics, certain similarities in sound or feel can be found across various switches based on their design and materials.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the KTT Grapefruit and the Huano Sakura linear switches largely depends on your typing preferences and use case. If you enjoy a softer touch with a little more resistance and appreciate a deeper, bass-influenced sound, the KTT Grapefruit is your best choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams provides a satisfying tactile experience, making it suitable for both casual typing and gaming without feeling overly strenuous during extended sessions. However, if you prefer an incredibly light keypress for long typing marathons or find that a feather-light touch enhances your efficiency, the Sakura, with its 45-gram bottom-out force, will certainly cater to that need. The Sakura’s medium acoustics offer a balanced sound profile that can blend well in various environments, proving especially ideal for office settings. Ultimately, your decision should reflect what you value more—smoothness and a richer sound with Grapefruit, or a feather-light feel perfect for marathon typing with Sakura. Consider how you plan to use your keyboard, and choose the switch that aligns with your preferences for both feel and sound.
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