KTT Grapefruit vs. Outemu Crystal Brown

Overview

When comparing the KTT Grapefruit linear switch to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it's important to note some key differences. The Grapefruit is known for its unique soft and light feel, along with a "baritone" sound profile that is not quite as deep as bass switches. In contrast, the Crystal Brown does not have a standout feature but is generally reliable for tactile feedback. Those seeking a low-pitched, neutral, and polished typing experience may be drawn to the Grapefruit, while the Crystal Brown offers a more traditional tactile feel. 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

Outemu Crystal Brown Tactile

$3.41 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

While both the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to a sharper and crisper sound profile, the major point of difference lies in their bottom housing material. The Grapefruit utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softness of the material that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown also features a nylon bottom housing, delivering a similar deep and full sound profile as the Grapefruit. So, in terms of sound production, both switches provide comparable results due to their shared bottom housing material.

In terms of aesthetics, both the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches feature clear top housings made of polycarbonate, allowing for RGB lighting to shine through. This translucency adds a visually appealing element to the switches, making them suitable for setups that utilize RGB lighting for a more vibrant look. However, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contrasts with the clear top housing, offering a subtle difference in appearance while maintaining a cohesive overall design. This combination of materials adds complexity and depth to the switches' visual appeal, making them stand out in a crowded market of mechanical keyboard switches.

When it comes to the tactile experience of typing on the switches, the material used in the bottom housing plays a crucial role in determining the overall feel. The softer nylon bottom housing of both the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches contributes to a more cushioned bottom-out sound and feel when pressing the keys. This results in a more comfortable typing experience with reduced impact on the fingers, creating a more enjoyable and ergonomic typing experience. In contrast, the stiffer polycarbonate top housing affects the sound produced when releasing the key, adding a distinct touch to the typing experience that complements the softer bottom housing for a well-rounded tactile sensation.

Weight

The actuation force of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is the same at 45 grams. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is identical for both switches. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Grapefruit has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams compared to the Crystal Brown's 55 grams. This means that the Grapefruit switch provides a slightly lighter typing experience when fully pressed down. In terms of weight, the Grapefruit switch would be preferred by those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Crystal Brown switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a medium-light actuation force but the Grapefruit is slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the KTT Grapefruit linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is the same, both measuring at 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience a consistent distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance indicates that the typing experience on both switches will feel familiar in terms of keypress depth. Overall, both the KTT Grapefruit and the Outemu Crystal Brown offer the same level of key travel, ensuring comparable typing experiences for users.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The KTT Grapefruit linear switch is known for its light and soft feel, providing users with a unique typing experience. The sound profile of the Grapefruit is low-pitched, giving off a deep and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch does not have specific sound or feel descriptors available. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used. Overall, if you enjoy a low-pitched sound and a polished feel, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch may be the perfect choice for you. If you prefer a quieter or different sound and feel, experimenting with different switches would be the best way to find your ideal match.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and light linear switch with a unique sound profile, the KTT Grapefruit switches would be the way to go. The low-pitched sound and polished feel make them a great choice for those who prefer a softer typing experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the Outemu Crystal Brown switches may be more suitable for you. While they do not have a specific sound or feel description, they provide a tactile bump that some users may prefer for a more pronounced typing feedback. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Grapefruit Linear

$3.41 per 10

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Outemu Crystal Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more