KTT Grapefruit vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Grapefruit linear switch to the Dareu Snow linear switch, it's evident that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The KTT Grapefruit is praised for its soft and light feel, along with a distinct "baritone" sound profile, making it ideal for those seeking a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow stands out with its innovative use of POK material for a deeper sound signature and a bouncy feel while typing. Both switches provide a neutral typing experience but differ in their sound profiles and materials used. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Grapefruit and the Dareu Snow both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound overall, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize sound quality in their switches. Additionally, the polycarbonate material allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. Both switches share this similar characteristic in their polycarbonate top housing, ensuring a consistent sound experience for users who value a high-pitched sound profile with a sharp tone.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the Grapefruit and the Snow utilize nylon material, known for creating deeper and fuller sound profiles due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This characteristic results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches contributes to a more subtle but impactful typing experience, enhancing the overall sound characteristics of the switches. With both switches featuring nylon bottom housings, users can expect a similar sound and feel when typing, ensuring a consistent experience across both options.
Overall, the KTT Grapefruit and the Dareu Snow offer a combination of materials in their housing design that complement each other to create a harmonious sound experience for users. While the polycarbonate top housings provide a sharp and resonant sound profile, the nylon bottom housings add depth and fullness to the overall sound. This combination allows for a balanced typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound profiles. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with clear tones or a deeper, fuller sound with a rounder tone, both switches offer unique qualities that make them stand out in the mechanical keyboard market.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is evident that the Grapefruit is lighter in both aspects. The Grapefruit has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light in terms of force required for typing. On the other hand, the Snow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium category. This means that the Grapefruit will provide a lighter typing experience compared to the Snow, which may be preferred by those looking for a more effortless typing feel. However, both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with a similar overall typing experience in terms of force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force feedback.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Snow is shorter compared to the Grapefruit. The Grapefruit's 4 mm travel distance falls into the category of a more traditional distance, while the Snow's 3.3 mm is on the shallower side. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Snow due to its shorter travel distance, providing a quicker key press. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key feel may opt for the Grapefruit with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches would depend on personal preference for key responsiveness and depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch presents a thocky and neutral sound profile with a deep, rich, and satisfying sound, thanks to its POK material construction. Both switches share a low-pitched sound characteristic, ensuring a similar bass-heavy and mellow tone overall, depending on the keyboard setup and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Grapefruit switch is known for its polished finish, delivering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and seamless key travel. In comparison, the Dareu Snow switch offers a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback and lively feel when keys are pressed. While the Grapefruit switch focuses on a polished typing experience, the Snow switch emphasizes a more dynamic and responsive feel with its bouncy feedback.
In conclusion, the KTT Grapefruit and Dareu Snow linear switches each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Grapefruit offers a soft and light feel with a low-pitched sound profile, while the Snow switch boasts a deeper sound signature and bouncy tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for typing feel and sound, as both switches promise a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the KTT Grapefruit and Dareu Snow linear switches, it comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a switch. If you're looking for a light and smooth typing experience with a soft sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly deeper sound and a bouncier typing feel, the Dareu Snow switch could be more suited to your liking. Consider your typing style, desired sound profile, and preference for bottom out force when making your decision between these two options. Both switches have their unique characteristics, so make sure to choose based on what appeals to you the most.
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