KTT Grapefruit vs. Wuque Studio WS Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Grapefruit and the Wuque Studio WS Brown are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique qualities for different typing preferences. The Grapefruit switch is best known for its soft and light feel, accompanied by a "baritone" sound profile. With a low-pitched, neutral, and polished categorization, it provides a distinct tactile experience. On the other hand, the WS Brown switch offers a harmonious blend of familiarity and innovation with a medium-light actuation force. It strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, making it ideal for fatigue-free typing during long sessions. Additionally, its familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination produce a delightful auditory experience that enthusiasts cherish. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Wuque Studio WS Brown switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Grapefruit's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the WS Brown utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. Therefore, the choice between these two sets of housing materials depends on whether one prefers a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Grapefruit and the WS Brown switches utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its relatively softer composition allows for better sound absorption compared to harder plastics. As a result, both switches elicit a similar sound when pressed down. However, the specific qualities brought by the bottom housing, such as the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, may differ between the two switches. It ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the KTT Grapefruit and the Wuque Studio WS Brown, as both offer the benefits of using nylon as a housing material.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles in the overall sound profile of a switch. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed down, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the overall sound experience on the KTT Grapefruit and Wuque Studio WS Brown switches will exhibit variations based on their respective top and bottom housing materials. Whether one prefers a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller sound will dictate the choice between the polycarbonate top housing of the Grapefruit or the nylon top housing of the WS Brown. Nonetheless, the utilization of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switches share similarities in terms of the deeper and fuller sound profile they offer.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Grapefruit requires 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, whereas the force for the WS Brown is unavailable. Therefore, it remains unknown whether they have similar actuation forces. Moving to the bottom out force, the Grapefruit requires 53 grams, while the WS Brown requires 55 grams. Both switches can be considered medium-light in terms of their bottom out force.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it allows them to type for longer without experiencing fatigue. For these individuals, the Grapefruit could be a suitable option due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, some users appreciate a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, they should consider options with heavier forces, such as the WS Brown, which has a slightly higher bottom out force.
In summary, the actuation force of the Grapefruit and WS Brown switches cannot be directly compared since the force for the WS Brown is unavailable. However, both switches exhibit a medium-light bottom out force, with the Grapefruit being slightly lighter at 53 grams and the WS Brown measuring 55 grams. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Grapefruit's 4.0 mm travel distance falls within the more traditional range, providing a standard key press experience. On the other hand, the WS Brown's 3.8 mm travel distance is slightly shallower, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize faster response times. Choosing the shorter travel distance option can enhance responsiveness. However, it's important to note that some users may find short travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a deeper and more satisfying key press, opting for the switch with the longer travel distance would be the better choice. While both switches offer variations in travel distance, the WS Brown provides a slightly shorter experience compared to the Grapefruit.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Brown comes in at $3.50.
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 profile, which means it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This results in a deep and soothing sound that enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch's sound profile is unknown, as there is no information provided regarding its acoustic characteristics. Therefore, if sound is an important factor for you, the Grapefruit switch would be a suitable choice as it delivers a unique low-pitched sound experience. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience. This smoothness is achieved through either high-quality materials or factory lubrication, reducing friction and allowing for smooth key travel. The Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch's feel is unknown, as no information is provided regarding its tactile feedback or smoothness. Therefore, if a polished and sleek typing experience is important to you, the Grapefruit switch would be a suitable choice.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch stands out for its low-pitched sound profile and polished feel. These switches offer a soft and light touch, complemented by a deep, mellow sound. On the other hand, while the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch is described as providing a harmonious balance between responsiveness and comfort, its specific sound profile and feel are not mentioned. Therefore, if you are looking for a unique sound and a polished typing experience, the Grapefruit switch would be a reliable option. However, if you prioritize the tactile feedback and smoothness of the switch and are not concerned about the specific sound profile, the WS Brown switch may still provide a satisfying experience. Remember that the choice of keyboard and keycaps can also impact the overall feel and sound of the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and requirements. If you prioritize a soft and light typing experience with a unique "baritone" sound profile, the Grapefruit switches are the way to go. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, they offer a medium-light actuation force that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. These switches also have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, using them at home or work. Additionally, the Grapefruit switches are polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a harmonious blend of familiarity and innovation, the WS Brown switches offer an elegant typing experience. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches also fall into the medium-light category, providing a comfortable typing experience that minimizes fatigue during extended sessions. While the sound profile of the WS Brown switches is not explicitly described, they are known for offering a delightful auditory experience that enthusiasts cherish, thanks to their familiar nylon housing and POM stem combination.
In the end, the choice between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Brown tactile switch depends on whether you prioritize the unique "baritone" sound profile and polished feel of the Grapefruit switches or the harmonious blend of familiarity and innovation provided by the WS Brown switches. Consider your preferences for sound and feel, and select the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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