KTT Grapefruit vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Grapefruit and Gateron Type A both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Grapefruit is renowned for its tarty linear feel, soft and light to the touch, with a sound profile that is described as "baritone." On the other hand, the Gateron Type A from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" stands out for its innovative design that incorporates factory lubing techniques and reimagined travel distances. It is characterized by a deeper sound signature and is positioned as a medium-weight switch. While the Grapefruit switch is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Polished', the Type A falls into the categories of 'Neutral' and 'Subdued'. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Gateron Type A exhibit significant differences in terms of their sound profiles and overall aesthetic appeal. The Grapefruit features a polycarbonate top housing, which gives it a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Type A has a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound. While the Grapefruit's polycarbonate top housing is translucent and ideal for RGB lighting, the Type A's nylon housing creates a more classic and solid look.
Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate material used in the Grapefruit's bottom housing. The differences in sound produced by the bottom housing are more noticeable when typing on the switches, as the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Despite the similarities in their bottom housing material, the overall sound profiles of the Grapefruit and Type A switches are distinct due to their differing top housing materials.
In summary, while the Grapefruit and Type A switches both utilize nylon for their bottom housings, their top housings showcase unique characteristics that impact sound profiles and aesthetics. The polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Type A produces a deeper and fuller sound. The choice between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and design, with the different housing materials offering varied typing experiences.
Weight
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Type A linear switch which has an actuation force of 50 grams, making the Grapefruit the lighter option. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Grapefruit requiring 53 grams and the Type A requiring 55 grams. This means that while the typing experience may feel slightly different in terms of initial key press, the overall pressure needed to fully press down the key is almost identical. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Grapefruit may be the better choice, while those who enjoy a slightly heavier feel may lean towards the Type A switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium-light feel overall.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them both equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity ensures that users can expect consistent results in terms of how the keys feel when typing or gaming. Despite any other potential differences between the two switches, such as actuation force or sound level, their travel distance remains the same, providing a familiar typing experience regardless of which switch is chosen for a keyboard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41, whereas the Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70.
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 linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, creating a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch also provides a neutral sound, but with a more subdued and dampened quality, giving a quieter and more subtle typing experience. Both switches offer a pleasant sound experience, with the Grapefruit emphasizing a deeper tone while the Type A focuses on a more restrained and subdued sound.
In terms of feel, the Grapefruit linear switch is praised for its polished and smooth finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, information on the specific feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is not available at this time. However, given its reputation for representing a medium-weight switch with innovative design elements, it is likely to provide a comfortable and satisfying typing feel similar to the Grapefruit.
Overall, both the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and potentially similar qualities in feel. The Grapefruit stands out with its low-pitched sound and polished feel, while the Type A introduces a more subdued sound signature and innovative design features. Depending on your preferences for sound profile and typing feel, either of these switches could be a great choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, you should consider the bottom out force and sound profile that best suits your preferences. If you prefer a lighter feel and a low-pitched sound with a neutral profile, the Grapefruit may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force, a subdued sound profile, and factory lubing, the Type A may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
