KTT F2 vs. Dareu Holly
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Dareu Holly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT F2 and Dareu Holly mechanical keyboard switches offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The KTT F2 switch is a linear switch known for its distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel. It provides a comfortable typing experience with a medium-light weightiness, making it neither too forceful nor too fleeting. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly switch is a tactile switch with a medium 50g actuation force and a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements. This switch caters to users looking for a balanced and distinctive typing 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
50g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT F2 and Dareu Holly both utilize polycarbonate material for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is useful for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the bottom housing of the F2 is also made of polycarbonate, while the Holly features a nylon bottom housing. The nylon material in the Holly results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper sound of the polycarbonate used in the F2.
While both switches share the same top housing material of polycarbonate, the differences in their bottom housing materials lead to variations in sound profiles. The F2 with its polycarbonate bottom housing will provide a clear and resonant sound profile, similar to its top housing. In contrast, the Holly's nylon bottom housing will create a deeper and fuller sound profile, offering a different typing experience. The split between the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches when pressed and released.
Overall, the choice of housing material in mechanical keyboards, such as the KTT F2 and Dareu Holly, plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. The polycarbonate material used in both switches' top housing results in a sharp and crisp sound, especially suitable for RGB lighting effects. However, the distinction between the polycarbonate bottom housing of the F2 and the nylon bottom housing of the Holly leads to differences in sound depth and resonance. Understanding how each housing material affects the typing experience can help users choose the switch that best suits their preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
The KTT F2 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Dareu Holly tactile switch with an actuation force of 50 grams. The F2 also requires a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, although the bottom out force of the Holly switch is unknown. Those who prefer a softer typing experience may lean towards the KTT F2 switch, as it provides a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Dareu Holly switch may appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Holly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The F2 offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Holly, making it a better option for those who prefer quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Holly's longer travel distance may appeal to individuals who enjoy a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the F2 being slightly shorter than average and the Holly being closer to the standard 4.0mm distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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 linear switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it versatile for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly tactile switch provides a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, giving users a distinct and balanced typing experience. These differences in sound signature cater to different preferences, with the F2 offering a more subdued sound and the Holly delivering a more playful and distinctive auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the KTT F2 linear switch provides a feathery, mild, and subtle typing experience, which is comfortable for extended typing sessions and versatile for various users. While information on the tactile feel of the Dareu Holly switch is not available, the 50g actuation force suggests a moderate tactile feedback, making it a comfortable and responsive option for typing enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the KTT F2 linear switch stands out with its distinct hollow sound and lightly textured feel, offering a comfortable and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Holly tactile switch distinguishes itself with a unique sound profile combining chirpy and clacky elements, providing users with a balanced and distinctive typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer their own set of qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring users can find the ideal mechanical keyboard switch to suit their typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT F2 linear switch or the Dareu Holly tactile switch, you should take into account your preferences for typing experience. If you value a comfortable typing experience with a lightly textured feel and a distinct hollow sound signature, the F2 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, along with a medium 50g actuation force, the Holly switch might be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize comfort and texture or distinctive sound characteristics in your mechanical keyboard.
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