KTT Grapefruit vs. Everglide Sunset Yellow
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Grapefruit and Everglide Sunset Yellow are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct features and experiences. The Grapefruit switches are known for their soft and light feel, accompanied by a unique "baritone" sound profile. With a low-pitched and neutral categorization, these switches provide a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow switches stand out with their captivating sound profile reminiscent of colliding mahjong tiles. With a rich and bassy sound, typing becomes an indulgent experience. These switches have a medium-weight, making them suitable for a wide range of users. The combination of a POM stem and proprietary factory lube method contribute to a distinct gliding feel, and the short travel and long-pole stem ensure a highly responsive typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
51g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single-staged lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches differ in terms of their top and bottom housings. The Grapefruit features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Sunset Yellow has a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. Both materials, however, offer unique sound qualities that can enhance the typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Grapefruit utilizes a nylon material, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Sunset Yellow features a POM bottom housing, contributing to an incredibly pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. Both bottom housings offer distinct characteristics that can impact the overall sound and feel of the switch.
It is worth noting that if a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material will be split between the top and the bottom. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. Therefore, understanding the housing materials of both the Grapefruit and the Sunset Yellow switches provides insights into the nuanced differences in their sound profiles, allowing users to make an informed choice based on their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. Firstly, in terms of weight, both switches fall under the category of medium-light, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, there are slight variations in their force requirements. The Grapefruit switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Sunset Yellow switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams. Although the differences are minimal, the Grapefruit switch requires slightly more force both for actuation and bottoming out, making it the heavier option compared to the Sunset Yellow switch. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of weight and force, ensuring a satisfying keystroke experience for users who appreciate a medium-light touch.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Grapefruit switch is longer than the Sunset Yellow switch. 4.0 mm is considered a more traditional travel distance, providing a sense of depth and solidity when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the 3.2 mm travel distance of the Sunset Yellow switch is shallower, catering to those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, particularly favored by gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Grapefruit offering a deeper travel distance and the Sunset Yellow providing a shorter, more responsive experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41, whereas the Everglide Sunset Yellow comes in at $3.09.
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 have a low-pitched sound profile. These switches offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches provide a bassy sound experience. The sound produced is deeper and richer, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the Sunset Yellow switches are referred to as "thocky," which means they produce a deep, satisfying sound when pressed and released. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, if you are looking for a low-pitched sound with a mellow tone, the Grapefruit switches would be a good choice. If you prefer a deeper and richer sound with a satisfying "thock," the Sunset Yellow switches will provide a more indulgent experience.
In terms of feel, the KTT Grapefruit switches are described as polished. This indicates that these switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel offered by these switches contribute to a comfortable and effortless typing feel. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switches are described as creamy and frictionless. These switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, similar to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The switch travel is fluid, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction. Both of these switches provide a polished feel, ensuring a sleek and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer the polished smoothness of the Grapefruit switches or the creamy, frictionless feel of the Sunset Yellow switches, both options offer a high-quality typing experience.
Based on the available information, it is clear that the KTT Grapefruit and Everglide Sunset Yellow switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Grapefruit switches provide a low-pitched sound profile and a polished feel, resulting in a soft and light typing experience. They offer a more neutral sound and a refined finish. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow switches offer a bassy sound profile and a creamy, frictionless feel. They provide a deep, rich sound and a smooth and buttery typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. It is important to consider personal preferences and the overall typing experience desired when choosing between these switches. If you prefer a softer and more neutral sound with a polished feel, the Grapefruit switches would be a suitable choice. If you prefer a deeper and richer sound with a creamy, frictionless feel, the Sunset Yellow switches would be a more indulgent option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a soft and light feel, along with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, these switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. Additionally, the Grapefruit switch has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience characterized by reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a richer and deeper sound profile, the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch would be the better option. With a bottom out force of 51 grams, these switches provide a bassy and thocky sound, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The Sunset Yellow switch features a unique POM stem and proprietary factory lube method, contributing to a distinct gliding feel and a frictionless typing experience. It also has a creamy finish, offering a smooth and buttery sensation when typing, as well as a polished switch design for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Grapefruit and Everglide Sunset Yellow switches comes down to personal preference. If you value a softer and lighter feel with a neutral sound profile, go for the Grapefruit switch. However, if you prefer a richer and deeper sound coupled with a smoother and more effortless typing experience, the Sunset Yellow switch would be your best bet. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so consider your preferences and needs before making a decision.
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