KTT F2 vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, it's important to consider both the feel and sound profile that best suits your typing preferences. The KTT F2 linear switch stands out with its distinct hollow sound signature and medium-light weightiness, offering a comfortable typing experience with a lightly textured feel. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch provides a subtle tactile bump and subdued sound profile, allowing for a more immersive typing experience without being overly intrusive. While the F2 may appeal to those who enjoy a tactile nuance in each keystroke, the Gold Brown Pro caters to individuals who prefer a polished and understated tactile experience. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
One key difference between the KTT F2 and the TTC Gold Brown Pro is in their bottom housing materials. The F2 utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which results in a clearer and more resonant sound. In contrast, the Gold Brown Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. Therefore, the choice between these two switches will greatly depend on whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound (F2) or a deeper, fuller sound (Gold Brown Pro).
On the other hand, both the F2 and the Gold Brown Pro feature polycarbonate top housings, which offer similar benefits in terms of sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, if you are specifically looking for switches with a clear top housing and want a sharp and clear sound profile, both the F2 and the Gold Brown Pro would be suitable options.
Overall, the choice between the KTT F2 and the TTC Gold Brown Pro ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While the F2 offers a sharper and clearer sound with its polycarbonate top and bottom housings, the Gold Brown Pro provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that will impact the typing experience, so it is important to consider what type of sound profile you prefer before making a decision between the two.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the F2 is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The F2 has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the F2, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out. In contrast, the Gold Brown Pro may appeal to users who enjoy a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference, with lighter switches being preferred for longer typing sessions and heavier switches for a more robust typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT F2 linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, it is clear that the F2 has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Gold Brown Pro's 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The shorter travel distance of the F2 may be preferred by those seeking a more responsive feel when typing or gaming, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Gold Brown Pro may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT F2 linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings and users. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is described as having a thocky and low-pitched sound that provides a deep and satisfying auditory experience. While the F2 offers a more subdued sound, the Gold Brown Pro delivers a more pronounced and tactile feedback in terms of sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT F2 linear switch provides a feathery and mild typing experience, reducing finger fatigue and offering a comfortable typing session. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offers a polished and silky typing feel, ensuring smooth key travel and minimal resistance when pressing keys. Both switches offer subtle resistance, providing a light and gentle typing feel that is suitable for extended typing sessions.
Overall, the KTT F2 linear switch is characterized by its distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is known for its gentle tactile bump and subdued sound profile. Depending on individual preferences, the F2 provides a more neutral and comfortable typing experience, while the Gold Brown Pro offers a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique and satisfying typing experience, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT F2 linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a unique hollow sound texture and a medium-light typing feel with lightly textured key feedback, the F2 linear switch could be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle tactile feedback with a gentle tactile bump and a subdued sound profile that allows for immersive typing without distraction, the Gold Brown Pro tactile switch may suit your needs better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard switch selection.
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