KTT Grapefruit vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Grapefruit and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The KTT Grapefruit switches are celebrated for their soft and light feel, making them ideal for users who favor a gentle touch while typing. Their low-pitched, neutral sound profile delivers a polished auditory experience, providing a pleasant balance between tactile feedback and acoustic appeal. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches are designed for those who enjoy a more substantial feel, featuring Ly stems that ensure a super smooth typing experience. These switches produce a resonant sound profile, adding a layer of auditory richness to each keystroke. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on whether you prefer the light touch and muted sound of the Grapefruit or the weighty, smooth operation of the Tomcat. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Extended spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Grapefruit and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) employ polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a remarkably similar sound profile and aesthetic. The use of polycarbonate is crucial to achieving a sharper and crisper auditory experience thanks to its stiffer composition which enhances clarity and resonance. This characteristic is advantageous for users who are fond of RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant light diffusion through the switch. As both switches harness this material, users can anticipate a pronounced and vibrant illumination effect alongside a bright sound that stands out amidst other switch types.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Grapefruit and Tomcat (Heavy) switches are made from nylon, which brings distinct acoustic properties that complement the polycarbonate tops. Nylon is known for its softer texture, allowing it to absorb sound more effectively. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when the switches are actuated, which contrasts with the sharper notes produced by the polycarbonate top. While the top housing of each switch contributes to the crispness and clarity of the sound when a key is released, the material choice for the bottom housing ensures that the bottom-out sound is rounder and more subdued, adding depth to the overall auditory experience.
Together, these design choices create a unique synergy between the two materials in each switch. The Grapefruit and Tomcat (Heavy) both utilize the strengths of polycarbonate and nylon to create a balanced sound profile, where the sharper top is seamlessly integrated with the fuller bottom. As a result, even though their individual characteristics might lean towards different acoustic outcomes, the end result remains consistent in terms of auditory performance. Users engaging with either switch can expect a unique tactile experience complemented by an orchestration of sound that is both crisp and rounded, providing a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch exhibit distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different user preferences. The Grapefruit has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) requires a stronger actuation force of 55 grams and features a bottom out force of 64 grams, classifying it as a medium-heavy switch. These differences mean that the Grapefruit is better suited for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Tomcat (Heavy) appeals to those who favor a more substantial feel with its heavier push. Overall, the comparison highlights how users may select switches based on their typing style and comfort preferences, with the Grapefruit being the lighter choice and the Tomcat (Heavy) being the heavier alternative.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, the Grapefruit features a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Tomcat (Heavy) measures 3.6 mm. This means that the Grapefruit switch offers a more pronounced depth with each keystroke, appealing to users who prefer a heartier typing experience. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy), with its shorter travel distance, may provide a more responsive feel, which can be beneficial for gamers or those who favor quicker actuation times. Ultimately, while both switches serve different preferences, those who appreciate deeper key travel will find the Grapefruit more suited to their needs, whereas the Tomcat (Heavy) caters to those who prioritize swifter response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41, whereas the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) comes in at $2.99.
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, both the KTT Grapefruit and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches are designed to provide a pleasant auditory experience, although they lean in different directions. The Grapefruit switches feature a "baritone" sound profile that strikes a balance between low-pitched warmth and a neutral tone, translating to a mellow auditory feedback that can be enjoyed in various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. On the other hand, the specifics of the Tomcat (Heavy) sound profile suggest a resonant quality, yet the details about its tonal characteristics are not fully defined here. Ultimately, if you're seeking a deeper sound experience accompanied by the mellow undertones of the Grapefruit, that may give it an edge, but both are likely to be suitable for users looking for something unobtrusive.
In terms of tactile feel, the KTT Grapefruit switch is praised for its soft and light typing experience, which is further enhanced by its polished surface, allowing for smooth key travel and reduced friction. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a slick, effortless typing experience. The Tomcat (Heavy), utilizing Ly stems, is noted for its super smooth action as well, although specific tactile descriptors are not provided. While the Grapefruit emphasizes a lighter touch, the Tomcat's heavier designation may appeal more to those who enjoy a firmer resistance when typing, catering to different personal preferences.
In conclusion, the KTT Grapefruit and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to varying user preferences in both sound and feel. The Grapefruit provides a low-pitched, mellow sound with a polished and light typing experience, while the Tomcat showcases a smooth action with a resonant sound, although further details on its sound profile remain elusive. This differentiation suggests that your choice may boil down to whether you prioritize a lighter, smoother action or a more substantial tactile experience. Whichever you choose, both switches promise to deliver a satisfying performance tailored to your specific typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the context in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you favor a lighter feel with a bottom-out force of 53 grams, enjoy a soft, polished typing experience, and prefer a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit is an excellent choice. Its smooth and tarty characteristics make it ideal for long typing sessions, whether you’re writing, gaming, or even just browsing. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more substantial typing experience with a bottom-out force of 64 grams, and appreciate a resonant sound, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) is likely to suit you better. Its smooth operation and medium-heavy feel provide a more satisfying tactile feedback, perfect for users who enjoy a firmer key press. Ultimately, your choice should reflect not only your typing style but also the balance between sound and feel that you find most enjoyable for your daily activities.
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