KTT F2 vs. Huano Grape Orange
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Huano Grape Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT F2 and Huano Grape Orange offer distinct experiences suited to different preferences. The KTT F2 stands out with its unique hollow sound signature, creating a satisfying auditory experience while typing. Its medium-light weight allows for a comfortable feel, striking a balance that caters to typists who enjoy a bit of texture in their keystrokes. This switch is characterized by its feathery, mild, and subtle qualities, making it a solid choice for users who seek a nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Huano Grape Orange switches shine with their ultra-low 40g actuation force, providing an incredibly light and effortless typing experience ideal for those who engage in long hours of typing. This makes the Grape Orange an excellent option for users looking to minimize fatigue during extended sessions. Ultimately, both switches cater to different typing preferences and styles. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT F2 and the Huano Grape Orange switches showcase a similar approach in their top housing materials, as both utilize polycarbonate. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that enhances clarity and resonance during typing. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to the crispness of the sound, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate a more defined auditory feedback. Additionally, both switches feature translucency, which is essential for those who enjoy RGB lighting effects, allowing for a visually appealing integration with illuminated setups. Consequently, users can expect comparable auditory characteristics from the top housing in both switches, achieving a satisfying typing experience with enhanced lighting effects.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the KTT F2 employs polycarbonate as well, which maintains the same sound profile benefits as its top housing, ensuring a cohesive auditory experience. Meanwhile, the Huano Grape Orange opts for nylon in its bottom housing, which markedly alters the acoustic output. Nylon’s softer characteristics tend to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when compared to the sound produced by the stiffer polycarbonate. This contrast suggests that while the KTT F2 will produce a consistent sound across both the top and bottom housings, the Huano Grape Orange will deliver a more rounded and warmer auditory experience due to the differing materials at play.
When both the top and bottom housings are taken into consideration, the KTT F2 and Huano Grape Orange switches present diverging experiences due to their material choices. The F2, with its uniform polycarbonate construction, emphasizes clarity and sharpness at both the top and bottom, yielding a sound that maintains its character throughout the typing experience. In contrast, the Grape Orange creates a harmonious blend of sharpness and depth; the polycarbonate top provides a crisp sound that transitions into a richer, bass-driven response from the nylon bottom. Therefore, users may lean towards the F2 for a more consistent acoustic profile, while those seeking a combination of sharpness and fullness might prefer the Huano Grape Orange, reflecting the diverse auditory preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the KTT F2 linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces are noteworthy. The KTT F2 requires an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Huano Grape Orange has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, classifying it as light. This means that users who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may find the Grape Orange more suitable, while those who enjoy a slightly more substantial feel in their keystrokes may gravitate towards the F2. The differences in bottom out force further highlight this contrast, with the Grape Orange providing a softer landing at 50 grams compared to the F2's 53 grams, making the Grape Orange overall the lighter option for those seeking ease and comfort during extended use.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Huano Grape Orange linear switch offers a slightly longer travel distance at 3.6 mm. This minor difference reflects a preference for more traditional or deeper key presses with the Grape Orange, which may appeal to users who find deeper travel more comfortable. Conversely, the KTT F2's shorter travel distance could cater to gamers seeking quicker response times, allowing for faster key actuations. Thus, if a more responsive feel is desired, the KTT F2 would be the better choice; however, if a deeper, more substantial key press is favored, the Grape Orange might be preferable. Ultimately, the differences in travel distance lead to varied typing experiences, catering to different user preferences in switch feel and function.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.
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 KTT F2 switches possess a distinct hollow sound signature that sets them apart in terms of auditory experience. They produce a subdued sound, which is moderate in profile and neither overly loud nor silent, creating a more subtle acoustic environment that is suitable for both home and office settings. This makes the F2 particularly appealing to those who desire a quieter typing experience without sacrificing responsiveness. On the other hand, the Huano Grape Orange switches do not have a specified sound profile available, leaving their auditory qualities unknown. However, in any mechanical keyboard setup, the overall sound production can be influenced by the choice of board and keycaps, so careful selection can help achieve the desired auditory environment.
In terms of feel, the KTT F2 switches offer a medium-light weightiness that ensures a balanced typing experience, neither requiring excessive force nor feeling too ephemeral. They feature a lightly textured feel, providing a layer of tactile feedback that enhances typing confidence and precision. Descriptors such as "feathery," "mild," and "subtle" all contribute to making the F2 suitable for long typing sessions without significant finger fatigue. In contrast, the Huano Grape Orange switches are characterized by their ultra-low 40g actuation force, delivering an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience. While the specific feel descriptors for the Grape Orange are not available, its lightweight nature suggests it is also well-suited for prolonged use, adding to the comfort during extended sessions.
Considering all available information, the KTT F2 and Huano Grape Orange switches cater to typists seeking comfort and efficiency. The F2 stands out with its unique sound signature and textured feel, making it versatile for various environments. Meanwhile, the Grape Orange's ultra-light actuation force promises ease of use, suitable for those who prioritize a feather-light touch. While the F2 may offer a more noticeable auditory and tactile feedback experience, the Grape Orange is designed for effortless typing, suggesting that users of both switches can enjoy comfortable, enjoyable typing sessions—each in their own distinctive manner.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you find yourself typing for long periods and favor a balance between lightness and feedback, the KTT F2 should be your switch of choice. With its medium-light 53g bottom-out force and lightly textured feel, it provides a comfortable typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue while maintaining engaging tactile nuance. Its distinctive hollow sound signature and mild auditory profile also make it suitable for quiet shared environments. On the other hand, if you prefer an exceptionally effortless typing experience with minimal resistance, the Grape Orange is the way to go. With a lighter actuation force of just 50 grams, it's perfectly designed for extended use, and the light feel can make rapid keystrokes feel exceptionally smooth. Ultimately, if you value subtlety and a slight cushion in your keystrokes for workloads that demand efficiency, opt for the Grape Orange. Your choice will hinge on how you prioritize comfort, feedback, and sound experience, ensuring you select the perfect switch for your typing needs.
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