KTT Grapefruit vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one can significantly enhance your typing experience, and two popular options worth considering are the KTT Grapefruit and the HMX Sunset Gleam. The KTT Grapefruit switches are celebrated for their soft and light feel, combined with a unique "baritone" sound profile that provides a pleasant auditory experience without overwhelming the user. They embody a low-pitched, neutral, and polished characteristic that caters to those who prefer gentler keystrokes. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam switches, also known as the Duck Duck switch, offer a delightful blend of materials that deliver a subtle top-out feel and a satisfying clack, complemented by the excellent factory lubrication that HMX is renowned for. While the Grapefruit may appeal to typists seeking a softer touch and muted acoustics, the Sunset Gleam might attract those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback and tactile engagement. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the KTT Grapefruit and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches, one notable aspect is their use of housing materials in their construction, specifically the top housing made from polycarbonate. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which shares notable acoustic properties. This material is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. The translucency of polycarbonate also offers aesthetic advantages, particularly in setups utilizing RGB lighting, as it allows for better light diffusion and visual effects. As a result, users of both switches can expect a similar auditory experience when it comes to key presses, characterized by clarity and resonance.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both the Grapefruit and Sunset Gleam switches are composed of nylon, a material renowned for its ability to dampen sound effectively. The use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As both switches employ the same nylon material in their bottom housing, users will experience a similarly rounded and muted sound when bottoming out the keys. This consistency in materials enhances the overall sound experience across both switch types, as they balance the higher-pitched quality of the polycarbonate upper with the softer attributes of the nylon lower.
Thus, while both the KTT Grapefruit and HMX Sunset Gleam share identical materials in their housing configurations — polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom — the interplay between these materials results in a distinctive sound profile that is both sharp and full-bodied. The similar implementation of these materials ensures that users can derive comparable auditory benefits from both switches, making them optimal choices for those seeking a balanced combination of aesthetic appeal and sound quality in their typing experience. Ultimately, the synergy of the materials contributes to an overall feel that is representative of each manufacturer's commitment to quality acoustics and design.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Grapefruit switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. This means that users who prefer a heavier feel may gravitate towards the Grapefruit for its more substantial typing experience, while those seeking a lighter switch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions might favor the Sunset Gleam. Overall, the Grapefruit offers a firmer response, while the Sunset Gleam provides a softer touch, appealing to different preferences in typing dynamics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, the Grapefruit has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sunset Gleam offers a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Grapefruit provides a deeper and potentially more satisfying keystroke for those who appreciate a more pronounced feedback, making it ideal for users who favor a hearty depth in their typing experience. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam, with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers and users who prefer faster response times and quicker keystrokes, which can enhance efficiency in fast-paced environments. Thus, the Grapefruit is the longer option, while the Sunset Gleam is the shorter one, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for typing feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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 switches are known for their deep, baritone profile that leans towards a low-pitched tone. This results in a mellow auditory experience, creating a sound that is both pleasant and subtle without being overwhelming. Their neutral characteristic allows them to fit seamlessly into various environments, whether you’re gaming, typing, or working. The overall sound profile is versatile enough to appeal to a wide range of users, from novices to avid enthusiasts. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam switches do not have a specified sound description available, leaving uncertainty about their unique auditory qualities. However, given their reputation for a satisfying clack and excellent factory lube, it’s likely that they also provide a distinct and enjoyable sound experience, though we cannot draw direct comparisons.
In terms of feel, the KTT Grapefruit switch is characterized by a polished touch, offering smooth key travel and reduced friction, which contributes to an exceptionally refined typing experience. This smoothness can enhance overall comfort during long typing sessions. The specific feel of the HMX Sunset Gleam switches is not detailed, but the satisfaction derived from their carefully blended materials suggests that they might also offer a pleasant tactile experience, possibly aligning closely with the smoothness of the Grapefruit switches. Without explicit information on the Sunset Gleam's feel, it's challenging to make a direct comparison, but both switches seem to aim for a comfortable experience.
In conclusion, while the KTT Grapefruit linear switch stands out with its deep low-pitched sound and polished feel, the HMX Sunset Gleam provides an appealing alternative with an implied satisfying auditory and tactile response, though specifics on its qualities remain unknown. If you are leaning towards one, the Grapefruit is likely to offer a more clearly defined experience, while the Sunset Gleam may still match or complement it well in different aspects due to its positive reputation and craftsmanship. Both switches would likely lead to a satisfying typing experience, whether individually or side by side, especially given their shared linear characteristics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences regarding weight, sound profile, and tactile experience. If you prefer a medium-light switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams, the Grapefruit will likely suit you well. Its smooth feel and polished finish make it a great choice for those who enjoy soft typing experiences, while the low-pitched sound adds a mellow auditory quality that can be pleasant in both home and office settings. On the other hand, if you're looking for a lighter, 48-gram switch with an excellent tactile response, the Sunset Gleam might be the better option. With its subtle clack and exceptional factory lube, it delivers a unique typing sensation that many enthusiasts appreciate. Overall, if you prioritize a balance of lightness and satisfying acoustic feedback, the Sunset Gleam is a compelling choice. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct advantages, so consider what aspects are most important to you in your typing experience.
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