KTT F2 vs. TTC Gold Pink
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the TTC Gold Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT F2 and the TTC Gold Pink both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The KTT F2 is praised for its distinct hollow sound signature and medium-light weightiness, providing a comfortable typing experience with a lightly textured feel. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink stands out for its incredibly light 37g actuation force, making it ideal for rapid typing or gaming with a satisfying level of feedback and a clacky sound. While the F2 is described as 'Neutral' and 'Subtle', the Gold Pink is labeled as 'Buttery' and 'Polished'. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT F2 and TTC Gold Pink both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of the plastic. This material is especially advantageous for switches that feature RGB lighting, as polycarbonate's translucency allows the lighting to shine through effectively. However, where the F2 also incorporates polycarbonate for its bottom housing, the Gold Pink utilizes nylon instead. The nylon bottom housing of the Gold Pink brings a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate.
The difference in bottom housing materials between the KTT F2 and TTC Gold Pink plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switches. While the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, the Gold Pink's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. The impact of the bottom housing is particularly noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the top housing, which is consistent in both switches, affects the sound when releasing a key, emphasizing the sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound qualities of polycarbonate.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT F2 and TTC Gold Pink may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. Both switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate for the top housing, ensuring a clear and resonant sound. However, the Gold Pink offers a unique experience with its nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing. Whether you prioritize the sharpness and crispness of polycarbonate or the depth and fullness of nylon, each switch offers distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and TTC Gold Pink linear switch differ in weight, with the F2 being the heavier option. The F2 has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Gold Pink has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. The F2 provides a medium-light feel, whereas the Gold Pink offers a lighter touch. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the F2, while individuals looking for a lighter typing feel might prefer the Gold Pink. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether one prefers a heavier or lighter actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may seem slight, but for some users, it can significantly impact their typing or gaming experience. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the KTT F2 with its shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker key presses. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the TTC Gold Pink with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user. However, both switches offer a different typing experience due to their distinct travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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
The KTT F2 linear switch stands out in the sound department with a distinct hollow sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch offers a clacky sound that contributes to a satisfying level of feedback during typing. While the F2 switch is described as having a more neutral and subdued sound profile, the Gold Pink switch does not have a specific sound descriptor provided. Both switches offer differing sound qualities that can cater to individual preferences and typing environments.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT F2 is known for a lightly textured feel that adds a tactile nuance to each keystroke. It is described as feathery and mild, providing a comfortable typing experience suitable for extended use. Similarly, the TTC Gold Pink switch is also described as offering a mild typing experience, alongside other descriptors like buttery and subtle. Both switches aim to provide a smooth and effortless typing sensation, with the F2 offering a slightly textured feel compared to the Gold Pink's smooth typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT F2 linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch both offer unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the F2 switch provides a distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel, the Gold Pink switch offers a clacky sound and smooth typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and actuation force, newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world can choose between these switches for a typing experience that suits their needs best. Ultimately, both switches aim to provide a comfortable and satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT F2 linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a slightly heavier keystroke with a lightly textured feel and a unique hollow sound signature, the F2 is a great choice. The F2 is suitable for a variety of typing tasks and offers a comfortable medium-light weightiness. On the other hand, if you value a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound and minimal finger fatigue due to its exceptionally light actuation force, the Gold Pink is the way to go. The Gold Pink is ideal for rapid typing or gaming, providing a satisfying level of feedback. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences.
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