KTT F2 vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the KTT F2 and the Keygeek Keylin linear switches present unique advantages that cater to different typing preferences. The KTT F2 is renowned for its distinct hollow sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience that sets it apart from traditional switches. With a medium-light weight, it strikes a balance between ease of actuation and satisfying feedback, complemented by a lightly textured surface that adds a subtle tactile element to each keystroke. This makes the F2 an appealing choice for those who appreciate a nuanced typing experience that’s both comfortable and interesting. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin focuses on delivering a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, thanks to its innovative new molds. This switch is ideal for users seeking an incredibly fluid typing action devoid of distractions, enhancing productivity and comfort over long typing sessions. Both switches have their merits, but selecting the right one ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT F2 and the Keygeek Keylin exhibit distinctly different characteristics in their housing materials, each offering unique acoustic profiles that can significantly influence the typing experience. The KTT F2 utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. This choice leads to a brighter, sharper, and crisper sound profile that is often sought after by typists who prefer a more tactile feedback. The rigidity of polycarbonate ensures that the sound generated is clear and resonant, particularly appealing for those who enjoy enhanced auditory feedback during typing sessions. Moreover, the material's translucency plays a crucial role for RGB enthusiasts, allowing the lights to shine through beautifully, providing visual aesthetics that can be synchronized with the keyboard's performance.
In contrast, the Keylin features nylon for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a notably different sound profile. Nylon is recognized for its softer texture, which absorbs sound more effectively than stiffer plastics like polycarbonate. As a result, switches utilizing nylon create a deeper, fuller sound, giving a more muted, round auditory experience with smoother typing feedback. This quality is beneficial for those who prefer a quieter typing sound, which can lead to a more immersive writing or gaming experience. While these differences in material affect the overall auditory feedback, they also impact the tactile feel for users—nylon providing a softer, cushioned response compared to the sharpness of polycarbonate.
When considering a potential hybrid approach—if a model were to mix both materials—the distinct characteristics of each housing would interact to create a unique typing experience. For instance, a switch that combines a polycarbonate top housing with a nylon bottom housing would allow for the higher-pitched clarity associated with polycarbonate while also incorporating the rounder, fuller sound signature from the nylon bottom. This combination would yield a versatile keyboard, capable of delivering a balanced auditory experience and potentially appealing to both enthusiasts and casual users alike. Ultimately, while the KTT F2 and Keygeek Keylin showcase contrasting materials, it's possible to achieve a tailored acoustic and tactile result by strategically blending the properties of each housing type.
Weight
When comparing the KTT F2 linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation force and bottom out force. The KTT F2 has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Keylin's actuation force is lower at 38 grams, and its bottom out force is also lighter at 48 grams. This makes the Keylin switch the lighter option overall, which can be advantageous for those who prefer less effort for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the KTT F2, while still relatively light, provides a slightly heavier push feel, appealing to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, while both switches can accommodate varying typing preferences, the KTT F2 offers a medium-light feel that some users may prefer for its balance between response and effort, while the Keylin is ideal for those who favor a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, the F2 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Keylin has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means the KTT F2 is the shorter option, making it potentially more suitable for gamers or users who prioritize faster response times. In contrast, the Keylin's greater travel distance may provide a more satisfying and robust typing experience for those who prefer a deeper feel when pressing keys. Therefore, while both switches offer a linear feel, the choice between them ultimately hinges on whether one values speed or a more traditional depth in their keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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 has a distinct hollow sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches. This neutral and subdued sound profile means that while the F2 produces a moderate sound level upon actuation, it won’t draw significant attention in quieter environments. It's suitable for both newcomers and experienced users, making it versatile for various settings like home offices or gaming setups. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin switch is known to deliver rich acoustics but lacks specific information about its sound characteristics. This leaves some mystery around its auditory performance; however, the emphasis on premium sound suggests it may offer a compelling auditory experience, albeit without direct comparisons to the F2 from the provided data.
Feel-wise, the KTT F2 switches present a feathery and mild typing sensation. With their medium-light weight, users experience a gentle yet responsive feel, minimizing finger fatigue and making them comfortable for prolonged use, whether for work or gaming. The lightly textured surface adds subtle feedback, enhancing the overall typing experience. However, there’s no detailed account of the tactile quality or resistance associated with the Keylin switches, leaving us uncertain about their feel. While they are touted to provide a premium typing experience, further specifics about their texture, weight, or resistance are not available for a comprehensive comparison.
Ultimately, both the KTT F2 and Keygeek Keylin linear switches offer appealing qualities, although they do so in different ways. The F2 excels with its distinctive sound signature and comfortable, gentle feel ideal for extensive typing sessions. The Keylin's promise of rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness indicates that it could also serve well for users seeking a premium experience, though additional details would provide a clearer picture. Choosing between the two may depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, but both have the potential to deliver satisfying results in a mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, it's crucial to consider your personal preferences and use case. If you're seeking a switch that provides a balance of comfort and responsive feedback, the KTT F2 is an excellent choice. Its medium-light actuation force of 53 grams ensures a comfortable typing experience, making it ideal for long typing sessions whether at work, school, or a gaming setup. The lightly textured feel adds to the tactile experience, and the distinct hollow sound signature makes it stand out in quieter environments, perfect for those who enjoy a unique auditory feedback without being overwhelmed. On the other hand, if you prefer an ultra-smooth typing experience with an even lighter actuation of 48 grams, the Keylin switch would be a better fit. Its exceptional smoothness and premium acoustics cater well to fast-paced typists and gamers who prioritize quick, effortless keystrokes. With the Keylin's lighter force, you can enjoy hours of use with minimized finger fatigue, making it a superb option for demanding settings or casual immersive gaming. Ultimately, both switches have their unique advantages, and your choice should reflect your typing style, environment, and the specific feel and sound characteristics you desire.
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