KTT Grapefruit vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Grapefruit and the Jerrzi Seashell mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, there are important factors to consider. The KTT Grapefruit switches are renowned for their tarty linear feel and soft touch, with a unique "baritone" sound profile. In contrast, the Jerrzi Seashell switches stand out with their stunning purple hue and light, clacky feel that delivers a satisfying typing experience over extended periods. While the Grapefruit switches offer a low-pitched and neutral tone, the Seashell switches provide a high-pitched and clacky sound. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Grapefruit and the Jerrzi Seashell both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same top housing material, they may differ in their bottom housing material.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Grapefruit and the Seashell feature nylon housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics, as it absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite the similarities in bottom housing material, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel may vary between the two switches.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the KTT Grapefruit and the Jerrzi Seashell may affect the overall typing experience and sound profile of the switches. While both switches share polycarbonate top housings for a crisp sound, the use of nylon for the bottom housing may result in differences in the depth and fullness of the sound produced. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall typing feel and sound profile can help users make informed decisions about their preferred switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, there is a notable difference in the bottom out force, with the Grapefruit requiring 53 grams to bottom out, while the Seashell's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Grapefruit switch slightly heavier compared to the Seashell. The actuation force of both switches being the same means that users can expect a similar feel when pressing the keys to register a keystroke. The moderate actuation force of 45 grams in both switches provides a balanced typing experience, ideal for users who prefer a medium-light touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding the desired weight and feel of the key presses.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Grapefruit has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Seashell. The Grapefruit's 4 mm travel distance is more traditional and offers a deeper keypress feel, which some users may prefer for a more robust typing experience. On the other hand, the Seashell's 3.4 mm travel distance is slightly shallower, making it ideal for users looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Grapefruit providing a deeper feel and the Seashell offering a quicker response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Seashell has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Seashell for $2.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. In contrast, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, giving a sharp and crisp tone when pressed. This difference in sound can affect the overall typing experience, with the Grapefruit switch offering a more soothing and deep sound, while the Seashell switch has a brighter and sharper sound.
In terms of feel, the KTT Grapefruit switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, offering a light and effortless typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by offering different levels of actuation force and keypress feedback, catering to the preferences of individual users.
In conclusion, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Grapefruit switch provides a soft and light feel with a low-pitched sound profile, the Seashell switch offers a feathery and easy-to-press experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between these switches to customize their typing experience to suit their needs. Whether you prefer a more soothing sound with a polished feel or a sharp sound with an easy-to-press sensation, both switches offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Grapefruit linear switch or the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light and smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Grapefruit switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a feathery and easy-to-press switch with a clacky and high-pitched sound, the Seashell switch could be more suitable. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, so make sure to consider factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and key feel before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Grapefruit and Jerrzi Seashell switches will depend on what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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