Gateron Beer vs. KTT F2
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the KTT F2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and KTT F2 offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Beer switch stands out with its mesmerizing translucent green color that evokes the allure of a Tsingtao beer bottle. Known for its lightweight and clacky sound signature, the Beer switch provides a stepped tactility for a subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT F2 switch boasts a distinct hollow sound signature and a medium-light weightiness that ensures a comfortable typing experience. With a lightly textured feel for each keystroke, the F2 switch adds a tactile nuance to every word and command. While the Beer switch is characterized as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Stepped', the F2 switch is described as 'Feathery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Subdued', and 'Subtle'. Both switches have their own unique qualities that may appeal to different users; 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
38g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Beer and the KTT F2 utilize polycarbonate material for their top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant and colorful lighting effects. In terms of aesthetics, both switches feature clear housings that showcase the polycarbonate material, giving them a modern and sleek appearance.
While both the Gateron Beer and KTT F2 share the same polycarbonate material for their housing, the differences lie in the design and construction of each switch. The qualities of the polycarbonate material are divided between the top and bottom housing of the switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. This division of housing materials allows for a more nuanced and customized typing experience, as users can enjoy a blend of qualities from both the top and bottom housings.
Overall, the Gateron Beer and KTT F2 offer a similar typing experience due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the housing material. Both switches provide a distinct sound profile characterized by sharpness, higher-pitched tones, and crispness, which are enhanced by the stiffness of polycarbonate. The translucency of the polycarbonate material also adds a visually appealing element to both switches, especially when paired with RGB lighting. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Beer and KTT F2 may come down to personal preference in terms of design, layout, and additional features beyond the housing material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, it is evident that the Beer has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the F2's 43 grams. Similarly, the Beer also has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the F2 has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that the Beer would provide a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the F2 offers a slightly stronger push feel, which may appeal to users looking for a more substantial typing experience. In terms of weight, both switches fall within the lighter to medium-light range, offering a balance between comfort and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing force and overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users, and therefore they may provide a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance. However, if you prefer a slightly deeper key press, the KTT F2 with a 3.5 mm travel distance may be the better option for you, while the Gateron Beer with its 3.4 mm travel distance would be slightly shorter. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
The KTT F2 comes in at $3.90 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Beer switch offers a clacky experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT F2 switch provides a neutral sound profile with a subdued quality, offering a more dampened and subtle sound signature. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Beer being more distinct and lively while the F2 is more understated and versatile.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Beer switch is described as easy-to-press and stepped, providing gentle resistance with a light actuation force and a subtle two-stage tactile feel. On the other hand, the KTT F2 switch is feathery, mild, and subtle, offering an exceptionally light press with minimal exertion and a gentle resistance that is suitable for extended typing sessions in shared spaces. Both switches offer different tactile nuances, with the Beer being more responsive and low-impact, while the F2 provides a comfortable and approachable typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the KTT F2 linear switch offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Beer switch excels in its clacky and easy-to-press characteristics, providing a lively and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the F2 switch stands out with its neutral and feathery qualities, offering a more versatile and comfortable typing feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the distinct characteristics of the Beer and the versatile qualities of the F2 to enhance their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the Gateron Beer tactile switch, you should choose this option if you prefer a light and easy-to-press switch with a stepped tactility and a characteristic clacky sound signature. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a distinct hollow sound signature, the KTT F2 linear switch would be the better choice for you. The F2 offers a comfortable typing experience with a lightly textured feel and a subtle sound profile that is suitable for various settings. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will depend on your preference for typing feel and sound signature.
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