KTT Grapefruit vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Grapefruit and the HMX Xinhai stand out as unique options. The KTT Grapefruit is a linear switch that is best known for its soft and light feel, paired with a "baritone" sound profile. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai, also a linear switch, boasts a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance thanks to its PA12 top housing and POM stem. While the Grapefruit offers a low-pitched and polished typing experience, the Xinhai is bouncy and clacky with a creamy feel. Both switches have their own strengths and reasons for choosing them based on personal preferences. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Grapefruit and the HMX Xinhai both feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a more resonant sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in both switches ensures consistent sound characteristics and aesthetic appeal, making them comparable in terms of top housing material.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the KTT Grapefruit utilizes nylon, while the HMX Xinhai also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. Despite both switches having nylon bottom housing, the impact of this material on the overall sound and feel of the switch remains consistent between the Grapefruit and the Xinhai.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the KTT Grapefruit and the HMX Xinhai are primarily seen in the top housing material, where polycarbonate is utilized. This material contributes to the sound profile and aesthetics of the switches, providing a sharper and crisper sound quality. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in both switches offers a deeper and fuller sound, creating a unique typing experience. Despite these distinctions, both switches aim to provide a high-quality typing experience, with varying nuances in sound characteristics based on the housing materials used.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch differ in terms of weight. The Grapefruit has a medium-light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Xinhai has a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means the Xinhai is lighter in comparison to the Grapefruit. The actuation force determines the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force needed to press the key all the way down. Those who prefer a lighter weight may opt for the Xinhai, which allows for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a heavier feel may lean towards the Grapefruit for a more solid typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is 4.0 mm, while the travel distance of the HMX Xinhai linear switch is 3.4 mm. This means that the Grapefruit switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Xinhai switch. The traditional travel distance is 4.0 mm, which the Grapefruit switch adheres to, while the Xinhai switch falls slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. Gamers may prefer the Xinhai switch for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial key press may lean towards the Grapefruit switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of responsiveness versus key depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $2.99.
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 low-pitched and neutral sound profile that leans towards a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, suitable for a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch provides a clacky sound, known for its sharp and snappy characteristics that can be perceived as crisp, bright, and percussive. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience depending on personal preferences and setups.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This polished finish results in a sleek feel while typing. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is known for its bouncy and creamy feel. The bouncy sensation gives keys a spring-like feedback, adding a lively feel to typing, while the creamy texture offers a smooth and buttery experience akin to effortlessly gliding fingers across the keys with ease.
Overall, the KTT Grapefruit and HMX Xinhai linear switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Grapefruit presents a low-pitched, neutral sound profile with a polished feel, the Xinhai features a clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound pitch, tactile feedback, and typing smoothness, both switches provide options for users to customize their typing experience. Whether opting for the bass-heavy mellowness of the Grapefruit or the sharp, energetic clackiness of the Xinhai, newcomers can expect to find satisfying results in their mechanical keyboard journey with either of these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, and 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, a clacky sound profile, and a bouncy or creamy typing feel, the Xinhai switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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