KTT Grapefruit vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Grapefruit and the Dareu Sky V4 both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Grapefruit is a linear switch known for its soft and light feel, with a distinct "baritone" sound profile. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch stands out with its POK material top housing, providing a deeper sound signature and smooth linear action. While the Grapefruit is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', the Sky V4 is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for various typing 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
55g
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Grapefruit and Dareu Sky V4 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Grapefruit creates a higher-pitched sound profile, while the POK material of the Sky V4 offers smooth and clacky switches. Both materials offer durability, with polycarbonate being stiffer and POK material having exceptional wear resistance. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, while the POK material is known for its smooth texture.
On the other hand, both switches also feature nylon bottom housings, which provide a deep and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate or POK material. Despite being a classic switch housing material, nylon offers durability and impact resistance, providing a solid foundation for typing and gaming. Both the Grapefruit and Sky V4 showcase the classic qualities of nylon in their bottom housings, ensuring a consistent sound profile throughout.
Overall, the different housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and Dareu Sky V4 contribute to their unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings for clear and resonant sound, they diverge when it comes to their bottom housings with nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the smoother feel of POK material, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with a focus on both sound and durability.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch are quite similar, with both having an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Grapefruit has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Sky V4 has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly heavier. Despite this difference, both switches fall into the category of medium-light when it comes to force required for typing. The weight of a switch is important to consider, as a lighter switch allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, while a heavier switch provides a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Grapefruit switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Sky V4 switch, which may result in a slightly deeper keypress feel. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Sky V4 with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress might opt for the Grapefruit switch. Overall, both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their travel distance, with the Grapefruit providing a slightly longer travel distance than the Sky V4.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky V4 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V4 for $4.76.
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 mellow tone that is suitable for a variety of typing environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch produces a thocky and neutral sound, giving typists a deep and rich auditory experience that complements the smooth linear action of the switch. Both switches offer a low-pitched sound profile, but the Sky V4 stands out for its thocky sound signature that can enhance the overall typing experience.
In terms of feel, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience due to reduced friction and smooth key travel. In comparison, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch provides a bouncy sensation, giving typists a spring-like feedback that enhances the typing rhythm. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Grapefruit focusing on a polished feel and the Sky V4 offering a bouncy sensation that can add liveliness to typing sessions.
Overall, the KTT Grapefruit and Dareu Sky V4 linear switches each offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While both switches feature a neutral sound profile, the Grapefruit leans towards a low-pitched tone, while the Sky V4 emphasizes a thocky sound signature. In terms of feel, the Grapefruit provides a polished typing experience, while the Sky V4 delivers a bouncy sensation that adds a lively touch to typing sessions. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, typists can choose between the Grapefruit for a softer sound and polished feel, or the Sky V4 for a deeper sound and bouncy typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for those looking to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a switch with a slightly lower bottom out force of 53 grams and enjoy a soft and light typing experience with a unique sound profile described as low-pitched and neutral, then the Grapefruit may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a bottom out force of 55 grams, deep sound signature described as thocky, and a smooth linear action that offers a rich and satisfying typing experience, then the Sky V4 might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force to ensure a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
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