KTT Grapefruit vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options in the linear switch category are the KTT Grapefruit and the TTC Silent Frozen. The KTT Grapefruit switches are best known for their soft and light tactile feel, making every keystroke a delight. They also produce a pleasing sound profile, described as "baritone" with a hint of depth. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switches from TTC are famously recognized for their extremely quiet sound profile. With a pillowy type feel and super smooth action, typing on these switches is practically silent. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the TTC Silent Frozen share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucent quality of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Thus, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using both the Grapefruit and Silent Frozen switches.
However, where these switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Grapefruit switch features a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Silent Frozen switch employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing. This choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to that of the top housing. As a result, the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch will be influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing material.
Overall, the combination of housing materials in a switch affects the overall sound and feel experienced by the user. While the top housing has a larger impact on the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the specific combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Grapefruit and Silent Frozen switches results in nuanced differences in their sound profiles. Those seeking a deeper and fuller sound may prefer the Grapefruit with its nylon bottom housing, while those desiring a sharper and crisper sound may opt for the Silent Frozen with its polycarbonate bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The actuation force of the Grapefruit is 45 grams, while the Silent Frozen has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams. This means that the Silent Frozen requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Grapefruit. In terms of bottom out force, the Grapefruit has a slightly heavier force of 53 grams, while the Silent Frozen has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams. Therefore, the Grapefruit provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Silent Frozen offers a lighter and gentler typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter weight switch for extended typing periods may lean towards the Silent Frozen, while those seeking a more substantial and stronger push for typing may prefer the Grapefruit. Both switches provide different levels of force, catering to the preferences of different users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, it is evident that there is a difference in length. The Grapefruit has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is a more traditional length, while the Silent Frozen has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Silent Frozen may be preferred by gamers who value faster response times, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key may opt for the Grapefruit with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 sound with a "baritone" tone. This means that the sound is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. It also has a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate level of sound that is suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch provides a thocky sound profile, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. It also has a low-pitched tone, similar to the Grapefruit switch, and is further described as muted, which means it produces a softer and quieter sound than regular switches. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics, with the Grapefruit having a softer and more mellow tone and the Silent Frozen providing a deep and satisfying sound.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. The switch has a sleek finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch is described as creamy, buttery, feathery, and subtle. These characteristics contribute to a smooth and buttery typing experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform sensation with reduced finger fatigue. The Silent Frozen switch is specifically designed for comfortable extended typing sessions, making it suitable for activities such as gaming, school, or work. Both switches offer smooth and refined typing experiences but with slightly different nuances.
In conclusion, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Grapefruit switch provides a soft and light feel with a deep, mellow sound profile, the Silent Frozen switch offers a pillowy feel with a satisfying thocky sound. Both switches showcase characteristics of low-pitched switches, with the Silent Frozen switch also being described as muted. In terms of feel, the Grapefruit switch is polished, while the Silent Frozen switch is creamy, buttery, feathery, and subtle. Overall, both switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience, albeit with slight variations in sound and feel. Depending on your personal preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are someone who values a soft and light typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is a great choice for you. These switches provide a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The Grapefruit switch also has a pleasant low-pitched sound profile, which offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It is a neutral switch that suits a variety of purposes, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you use it at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prioritize an extremely quiet sound profile and a pillowy type feel, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch is the way to go. With a light bottom out force, these switches offer a buttery and creamy typing experience. The Silent Frozen switch produces a thocky sound, characterized by a deep, rich, and satisfying tone. It also falls under the low-pitched category, which provides a more bass-heavy and mellow sound.
Ultimately, your choice should depend on your personal preferences and requirements. If you prefer a softer, lighter typing experience with a polished finish, the Grapefruit switch is the better option. However, if you prioritize a silent and satisfying thocky sound with a creamy and pillowy feel, the Silent Frozen switch is the way to go. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs, so it's essential to consider what matters most to you in terms of sound and feel when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
