KTT Grapefruit vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the KTT Grapefruit and Jwick Splash Brothers, two mechanical keyboard switches designed to enhance your typing experience. The KTT Grapefruit switch boasts a soft and light type feel, providing a unique tactile experience. With its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, it delivers a satisfying yet subdued "baritone" sound. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch offers a shorter activation combined with a long pole stem, resulting in a great typing feel. Its creamy sound signature adds an extra touch of elegance. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', the Jwick Splash Brothers certainly stands out. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision regarding which switch suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Jwick Splash Brothers, both switches utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This choice results in a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper tone. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate ensures a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the effective use of RGB lighting. Therefore, if you are looking for switches with a vibrant and visually appealing lighting experience, both the Grapefruit and Splash Brothers are capable of delivering similar results.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Grapefruit and Splash Brothers differ in material, with the former using nylon and the latter utilizing the same polycarbonate as the top housing. Nylon as a housing material is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This can be attributed to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. As a result, when typing on the Grapefruit, the bottom housing will play a significant role in the sound and feel of bottoming out the keys. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers, with its polycarbonate bottom housing, may offer a slightly different sound experience when releasing a key compared to the Grapefruit.
It's worth noting that while the top and bottom housings of the Grapefruit and the Splash Brothers differ, the overall impact on the sound profile will ultimately be distributed between the two. When pressing down on either switch, you will primarily feel the qualities of the bottom housing, which affects the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a more noticeable impact on the sound when letting go of a key. Therefore, despite differences in material, both switches provide a balanced and satisfying typing experience, considering the contributions from both top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of the Grapefruit is 45 grams, while the exact actuation force of the Splash Brothers is unknown. However, it is important to highlight that the actuation force of the Splash Brothers is lighter than that of the Grapefruit. The Grapefruit also boasts a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is slightly heavier compared to the Splash Brothers' bottom out force of 48 grams. These variances in force result in a difference in typing feel and experience. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience and the ability to type for longer periods of time, the Splash Brothers may be the preferred choice due to its lighter actuation and bottom out force. However, individuals searching for a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel might favor the Grapefruit switch. It is essential to consider these force differences when selecting a switch based on personal preferences and intended usage.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Comparing the two, it is clear that the Splash Brothers has a shorter travel distance than the Grapefruit. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered to be the most traditional, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, a travel distance of 3.5 mm is more shallow, making it preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. However, some may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt, and may prefer the Grapefruit switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired level of key depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41, whereas the Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49.
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
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch is best known for its soft and light feel, accompanied by a baritone sound profile that is not yet as deep as a bass. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a great typing feel with its shorter activation and long pole stem. It provides a creamy sound signature. When it comes to sound, the Grapefruit switch is described as having a low-pitched profile, which results in a bass-heavy and mellow tone. The Splash Brothers switch, on the other hand, has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Grapefruit switch is described as polished, offering a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Splash Brothers switch is mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. It is also described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience thanks to longer or dual-staged springs. Additionally, the Splash Brothers switch is bouncy, giving a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation to the keys. It is also subtle, offering a gentle resistance with a light typing feel. Like the Grapefruit switch, the Splash Brothers switch is also described as polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Grapefruit switch provides a tarty linear feel with a soft and light touch, accompanied by a baritone sound profile. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch offers a great typing feel with its shorter activation and long pole stem, while providing a creamy sound signature. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most users. The Grapefruit switch has a polished feel, ensuring smooth key travel, while the Splash Brothers switch offers a mild, snappy, bouncy, and subtle feel. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct characteristics, and if these qualities are what you are looking for, you can expect similar results from both switches.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a soft and light typing experience with a "baritone" sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is the one for you. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, these switches offer a medium-light actuation force. They are best known for their polished feel, providing a sleek and refined typing experience due to reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Grapefruit switches have a low-pitched sound, which is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. These switches are suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use them at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a light typing experience with a creamy sound signature, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is a great choice. With a bottom out force of 48 grams, these switches offer a light actuation force. They are known for their mild and snappy feel, providing a gentle typing experience with a responsive and lively feedback sensation. Similar to the Grapefruit switches, the Splash Brothers switches also have a polished feel, resulting in smooth and sleek key travel. In terms of sound, they have a neutral profile, making them suitable for various purposes and environments.
Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Grapefruit and Jwick Splash Brothers switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a softer typing experience and a low-pitched sound profile, go for the Grapefruit switches. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a creamy sound signature, the Splash Brothers switches are a great choice. Both switches offer a polished feel, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. Consider your actuation force preference, typing style, and sound preferences when making your decision.
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