KTT F2 vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT F2 and the Gateron Ink Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you value most. The KTT F2 switches are praised for their distinct hollow sound signature, offering a comfortable typing experience with a lightly textured feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow switches are known for their shorter travel and smooth, clacky feel, providing a typing experience that falls between a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. While the F2s are categorized as feathery, mild, and subtle, the Ink Yellows are described as neutral, clacky, and polished. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Gateron Ink Yellow, both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile for both. This material is known for its stiffness, creating a clear and resonant sound that is especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting. However, while the F2's bottom housing is also made of polycarbonate, providing consistency in sound profile throughout the press and release of a key, the Ink Yellow features a proprietary INK blend in its bottom housing, offering a slightly different yet still satisfying sound that is often described as clacky.
The use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housing of the F2 switch results in a coherent sound profile that is sharp, high-pitched, and crisp. This material allows for a consistent sound experience when typing, making it ideal for those who prefer a more uniform feel throughout the keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow's combination of polycarbonate in the top housing and the proprietary INK blend in the bottom housing creates a unique sound profile that is both pointed and high-pitched, yet not overly sharp. This blend of materials adds a level of complexity to the sound produced by the switch, offering a different auditory experience compared to the F2.
While the housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Gateron Ink Yellow may differ slightly in their bottom housing compositions, both switches showcase the unique characteristics of their respective materials. The F2's polycarbonate bottom housing enhances the overall sound profile of the switch, adding to the sharp and clear sound experience. In contrast, the Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend bottom housing introduces a distinct clacky sound that complements the top housing's high-pitched and satisfying thin sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for the auditory feedback provided by each material combination.
Weight
The KTT F2 linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch. The F2 requires 43 grams of force to actuate and 53 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-light option. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. These differences in force can impact typing experience, with the F2 offering a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, while the Ink Yellow provides a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these switches, it is evident that both offer a similar typing experience in terms of key travel. This means that whether you choose the KTT F2 or the Gateron Ink Yellow, you can expect to receive comparable results in terms of keypress feel and travel distance. In conclusion, both switches offer a consistent travel distance of 3.5 mm, providing a smooth and linear typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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 is distinct in its sound signature, offering a neutral and subdued sound that is neither too loud nor too quiet, making it suitable for a variety of environments. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch provides a more clacky sound, which adds a sharp and snappy element to each keystroke. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound, with the F2 offering a more neutral and subdued experience, while the Ink Yellow provides a crisper and brighter sound.
When it comes to feel, the F2 switch provides a feathery and mild typing experience, with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch offers a mild and polished feel, with a smooth and refined finish that ensures a sleek typing experience. Both switches offer a comfortable typing feel, with the F2 focusing on lightness and comfort, while the Ink Yellow provides a polished and smooth typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT F2 and Gateron Ink Yellow linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The F2 stands out with its neutral and subdued sound, along with a feathery and mild typing feel, while the Ink Yellow provides a clacky sound and a polished feel for a crisper typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches cater to a range of users seeking different qualities in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize a comfortable typing experience with a lightly textured feel and a distinct hollow sound, the F2 might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and clackier typing experience with a shorter travel distance, the Ink Yellow could be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the F2 would be ideal, while the Ink Yellow with a medium-heavy bottom out force might be preferred by those who enjoy a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preferences and typing style, so choose the switch that aligns best with your individual needs.
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