KTT Grapefruit vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Grapefruit and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Grapefruit switch is praised for its soft and light feel, along with a "baritone" sound profile that is not overly deep. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the use of POK in both the stem and bottom housing. Additionally, it offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that sets it apart from other switches. While the Grapefruit switch is described as low-pitched, neutral, and polished, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is characterized as buttery, creamy, high-pitched, marbly, and resonant. Both switches have their own unique benefits, so it ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Grapefruit Linear

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$3.41 per 10

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Grapefruit and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Grapefruit features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Vanilla Ice Cream uses a proprietary KTT blend top housing that delivers a high-pitched and clacky sound. While both offer distinct sound signatures, the polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit is ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant sound with the added benefit of RGB lighting compatibility. On the other hand, the KTT blend top housing of the Vanilla Ice Cream provides a unique sound experience that may appeal to users looking for a different type of switch sound.

In terms of bottom housing materials, the KTT Grapefruit utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound experience. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream switches feature a POK bottom housing, which offers exceptional smoothness and durability. The POK material has a coefficient of friction slightly higher than other materials, making it one of the smoothest options available while also being incredibly strong and wear-resistant. This difference in bottom housing materials between the Grapefruit and Vanilla Ice Cream switches results in distinct typing experiences with varying sound profiles and durability levels.

While the top and bottom housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and Vanilla Ice Cream switches differ, they each bring specific qualities to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing material has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, users can expect a unique sound profile and typing experience based on the combination of materials used in the construction of these switches. Whether you prefer the clear and resonant sound of polycarbonate in the Grapefruit or the smooth and durable feel of POK in the Vanilla Ice Cream, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.

Weight

The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch differ in terms of weight. The Grapefruit has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light. In comparison, the Vanilla Ice Cream has a lower actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it lighter. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Vanilla Ice Cream would be the better choice. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Grapefruit with its heavier forces may be preferred. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on typing style and desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Grapefruit switch. A 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a balance between depth and speed of response, while a 3.5 mm travel distance is slightly shallower and may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding the travel distance and the feel of the key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch delivers a high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound signature, giving a sharp and crisp auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, taking into consideration factors like keyboard and keycap choices.

When it comes to feel, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch is characterized as buttery and creamy, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation akin to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. Both switches offer a premium typing experience, but the decision between the two will depend on individual preferences for tactile feedback and keypress feel.

In conclusion, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Grapefruit switch provides a soft and light feel with a low-pitched sound profile, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a remarkably smooth and creamy feel with a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference for sound and feel, as well as the desired typing experience for the user. Regardless of choice, both switches promise a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Grapefruit and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams and a neutral, low-pitched sound profile with a polished typing feel, the Grapefruit switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams and a high-pitched, marbly and resonant sound profile with a buttery and creamy typing feel, then the Vanilla Ice Cream switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Make your decision based on what aspects are most important to you in a keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Grapefruit Linear

$3.41 per 10

Learn more

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn more