KTT Grapefruit vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Grapefruit and Outemu Cold Plum both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Grapefruit is a linear switch that provides a soft and light typing experience, with a distinctive "baritone" sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum also offers a linear feel but stands out with its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction. While the Grapefruit is known for its low-pitched and polished characteristics, the Cold Plum is favored for its satisfying sound and smooth keystroke. Each switch has its own strengths that appeal to different users, making them both compelling options to consider. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Cold Plum, it is evident that they both feature nylon as their bottom housing material. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material indicates that users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of sound profile and overall feel when using these switches.
On the other hand, the top housing materials differ between the Grapefruit and the Cold Plum, with the Grapefruit featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the Cold Plum featuring a nylon top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Grapefruit's top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness and translucency. In contrast, the Cold Plum's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, due to nylon's softer nature and ability to absorb more sound. This contrast in top housing materials may result in a distinct typing experience when using these switches, with the Grapefruit providing a clear and resonant sound, while the Cold Plum offers a more muffled and rounded sound.
Overall, the choice of top and bottom housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the sound profile and typing experience. While the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Cold Plum share nylon as their bottom housing material, providing a deep and full sound profile, their top housing materials differ, leading to distinct sound characteristics. Users can expect a sharper and crisper sound from the Grapefruit's polycarbonate top housing and a deeper and duller sound from the Cold Plum's nylon top housing. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials results in unique typing experiences for each switch.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch differ significantly. The Grapefruit switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option. In contrast, the Cold Plum switch requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. The lighter actuation force of the Grapefruit switch may appeal to users looking for a smoother typing experience for longer periods, while the heavier force of the Cold Plum switch provides a more substantial and satisfying push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feedback and comfort.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, the Grapefruit has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Cold Plum has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Grapefruit switch offers a longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper, more substantial press when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch has a shorter travel distance, which is ideal for individuals seeking faster response times and more swift key presses. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a longer, more traditional travel distance or a shorter, more modern one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41, whereas the Outemu Cold Plum comes in at $3.10.
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 that gives a mellow and bass-heavy tone to typing. This may appeal to those who enjoy a deeper sound while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch does not have a specific sound description provided, so it may offer a different sound experience. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard case, keycap material, and typing style.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch is characterized by a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This polished feel can lead to reduced friction and smoother key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch does not have a specific feel description provided, so it may offer a different tactile experience compared to the Grapefruit switch.
Overall, when considering the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it's important to note that both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Grapefruit switch provides a low-pitched sound profile and a polished feel, the Cold Plum switch offers a thocky sound profile without specific feel details. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, you may lean towards one switch over the other. Ultimately, trying out both switches on your own keyboard setup will give you the best idea of which one suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and low-pitched, neutral sound with a polished feel, the Grapefruit switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a thocky sound profile with a smooth keystroke, the Cold Plum switch may be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire. Consider these factors carefully before making your choice between these two unique switches.
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