KTT Grapefruit vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Grapefruit and Jwick Taro are two popular mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics. The Grapefruit switches are best known for their soft and light linear feel, giving users a pleasant typing experience. They have a unique "baritone" sound profile, providing a deep but not yet bass sound. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and polished, these switches offer a smooth and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Taro switches are known for their cozy and subdued color scheme, which mirrors the comfortable typing experience they provide. With a snappy medium-level of tactility, users can enjoy a satisfying feedback while typing, accompanied by acute and crisp clacks. Categorized as neutral, buttery, and stepped, the Taro switches offer a tactile experience without being overly aggressive. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Jwick Taro, particularly the polycarbonate top housing, share several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Moreover, the translucent quality of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Overall, users can expect comparable outcomes in terms of sound and aesthetics when using the polycarbonate top housing in either the Grapefruit or Taro switch.
While the polycarbonate top housing may be similar in both the Grapefruit and the Taro, the nylon bottom housing sets them apart. The Grapefruit boasts a nylon bottom housing that provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Taro also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which offers similar sound characteristics as the Grapefruit. Users can expect both switches to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the acoustic properties of nylon.
In understanding the impact of the housing materials, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings have distinct influences on the overall typing experience. When pressing down on either the Grapefruit or the Taro, the qualities of the bottom housing become more prominent, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the housing materials may differ between the switches, the bottom and top housing materials work together to create a well-rounded typing experience in both the Grapefruit and the Taro.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Grapefruit switch is 45 grams, while the actuation force of the Taro switch is unavailable. However, both switches have a bottom out force measurement. The bottom out force of the Grapefruit switch is 53 grams, which is considered medium-light. In contrast, the Taro switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is categorized as medium-heavy.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches, such as the Grapefruit, as it allows for longer typing sessions and is suitable for work or extended gaming periods. On the other hand, those seeking a more pronounced typing experience may prefer heavier switches, like the Taro, which require a stronger push. In terms of actuation force, since the information for the Taro switch is unavailable, it is challenging to provide a direct comparison. However, based on the available data, the actuation force of the Grapefruit switch is lighter than the bottom out force of the Taro switch, indicating that the Taro switch may have a heavier actuation force as well.
In summary, the Grapefruit linear switch is lighter in terms of both its actuation and bottom out forces, while the Taro tactile switch is heavier in both aspects. However, since the actuation force for the Taro switch is unknown, it is challenging to determine a direct comparison for that particular metric. Nevertheless, those looking for a lighter typing experience may opt for the Grapefruit switch, while individuals who prefer a more substantial and heavier feel to their keystrokes might lean towards the Taro switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, we find that the Grapefruit has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Taro has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Grapefruit has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Taro. 4.0mm is the most traditional travel distance, while 3.0mm is the most shallow. However, it is worth noting that shorter travel distances are becoming more popular, especially among gamers who prefer faster response times. So, if you prioritize responsiveness, opting for the Taro with its shorter travel distance might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key. In that case, the Grapefruit with its longer travel distance would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and desired typing experience. However, both options will provide similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch offers a unique experience with its "baritone" sound profile. This means that it produces a deep and mellow tone, although it may not have the full bass quality that some other switches provide. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate tone that should be suitable for most users. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is described as polished. This means that it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It offers a seamless, effortless, and uniform sensation while typing. Additionally, the Taro switch is also described as stepped, which means it provides a mild tactile feedback with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, as opposed to a more pronounced bump found in hypertactile switches.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that both the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch offer unique qualities. The Grapefruit switch delivers a soft and light linear feel with a deep sound profile, while the Taro switch offers a snappy, medium-level tactile feel with acute and crisp clacks. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various users and environments. While the Grapefruit switch has a polished feel, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel, the Taro switch offers a buttery and stepped tactile experience. It is important to note that individual preferences may vary, and it is recommended to try out both switches to determine which one suits your typing preferences the best.
Conclusion
To sum up, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch would be a suitable choice for you if you prefer a soft and light typewriter feel with a subtle sound profile. These switches have a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, making them ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Grapefruit switches are known for their polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch would be a better option if you enjoy a snappy and medium-level of tactility while hearing acute and crisp clacks. These switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams and provide a buttery and stepped typing experience. Both switches have a neutral sound profile and actuation force requirement, making them suitable for all users, whether beginners or advanced. Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Grapefruit and Jwick Taro switches would depend on your preference for the typing feel and sound profile.
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