KTT Grapefruit vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Grapefruit and the PH Studio Yoel. The KTT Grapefruit switch is known for its unique tarty linear design that offers a soft and light typing experience, accompanied by a "baritone" sound profile that falls just short of being "bass" deep. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch, manufactured by BSUN, provides a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile that resonates satisfyingly upon bottoming out. While the Grapefruit switch is categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and polished, the Yoel switch offers qualities such as clacky, creamy, high-pitched, marbly, polished, silky, and resonant. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics that may appeal to different preferences, but diving deeper into the specifics can help you make the best choice for your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Grapefruit and the PH Studio Yoel utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. Despite both switches using the same material for the top housing, they may still offer unique sound characteristics due to other factors such as keycap design and overall keyboard build.
In terms of the bottom housing, the KTT Grapefruit features a nylon housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel uses a POM bottom housing that creates a unique and pleasing sound profile on the deeper side, albeit relatively more muted. The difference in bottom housing material between the two switches may lead to variations in sound and typing experience, with nylon offering a softer feel and POM contributing to a more muted sound.
When both the top and bottom housings are different for a switch, each housing material brings its own qualities to the overall sound and feel of the keyboard. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing influences the sound when letting go of a key. This split between the top and bottom housing materials in the KTT Grapefruit and PH Studio Yoel may result in a unique typing experience, with each switch offering its own distinct sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch differ slightly. The Grapefruit has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Yoel's 53 grams, making it more sensitive to keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Grapefruit requires 53 grams while the Yoel needs 60 grams, making the Yoel slightly heavier when fully pressed down. The lighter actuation force of the Grapefruit may appeal to those who prefer a gentler typing experience for extended periods, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Yoel's heavier bottom out force may suit users who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Both switches provide a medium-light to medium typing experience, and users can expect similar results in terms of performance.
Travel distance
The KTT Grapefruit linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional option, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Yoel switch for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Grapefruit switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch produces a clacky, high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound that is sharp, bright, clean, and immersive. The Yoel switch is characterized by a crisp and percussive sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced and satisfying auditory experience.
Moving on to the feel, the KTT Grapefruit switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the PH Studio Yoel switch is also described as polished and creamy, providing a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. With the factory lubrication and specific materials used in both switches, users can expect an effortless and gliding feel as they interact with the keys.
In conclusion, while the KTT Grapefruit and PH Studio Yoel linear switches offer different sound and feel profiles, users can expect high-quality performance from both options. The Grapefruit switch provides a softer and more neutral sound with a polished and smooth feel, while the Yoel switch delivers a bright and clacky sound with a creamy and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, ensuring that both newcomers and experienced users can find a switch that suits their individual typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a soft and light typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is a great choice for you. The Grapefruit switch is known for its neutral sound profile and polished feel, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a chewy typing experience with a medium bottom out force and a bright and clacky sound profile, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is the way to go. The Yoel switch offers a creamy and polished feel, giving you a smooth and buttery typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics, so your choice will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel.
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