KTT Grapefruit vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Grapefruit and the Gateron Smoothie mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two fantastic options in the linear switch category. The Grapefruit switch is renowned for its soft and light feel, combined with a unique "baritone" sound profile. On the other hand, the Smoothie switch stands out for its all-POM construction, providing a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. While the Grapefruit is described as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', the Smoothie is characterized as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', and 'Silky'. Both switches offer distinct qualities that appeal to different preferences and typing styles. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POM
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Gateron Smoothie have distinct characteristics that affect the sound and feel of the switches. The Grapefruit features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Smoothie's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, the Grapefruit's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound, while the Smoothie's POM bottom housing contributes to a similar deep and muted sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a unique and pleasing typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the Grapefruit's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. In contrast, the Smoothie's POM top housing may not offer the same level of transparency, but it still contributes to a distinct sound profile that many enthusiasts find appealing. Additionally, the use of nylon in the Grapefruit's bottom housing adds to the overall sound profile by absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie enhances the switch's deep and muted sound characteristics, providing a consistent typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches like the KTT Grapefruit and the Gateron Smoothie can significantly impact the typing experience for users. While the Grapefruit's polycarbonate and nylon housing materials offer a sharper and deeper sound profile, respectively, the Smoothie's POM housing materials provide a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and more muted. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile or a softer, deeper feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, we can see that the Grapefruit has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Smoothie's 40 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Grapefruit is also heavier at 53 grams, while the Smoothie's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Grapefruit switch overall a bit heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Smoothie may be the better option due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Grapefruit may be more suitable for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Grapefruit has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial feeling when typing compared to the Smoothie. However, the Smoothie's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer a balance between the traditional 4 mm and shallow 3 mm travel distances, making them versatile options for different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a deeper keypress feel or a faster typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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, giving a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various uses. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch provides a thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound that is deep, rich, and satisfying. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Grapefruit focusing on a more neutral and bass-heavy tone while the Smoothie delivers a deep and rich thocky sound.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is known for its buttery, creamy, and silky feel that provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Both switches prioritize a smooth typing experience, with the Grapefruit emphasizing a polished finish for reduced friction and the Smoothie offering a buttery and creamy sensation with minimized resistance.
In conclusion, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Grapefruit provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with a polished feel, while the Smoothie offers a thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound with a buttery, creamy, and silky feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, both switches cater to different needs and can deliver a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a switch. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile with a polished feel, the Grapefruit switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a switch with no specified bottom out force, a thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound profile, along with a buttery, creamy, and silky feel, the Smoothie switch may be more suited to your preferences. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired typing experience when making your decision between these two switches.
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