KTT F2 vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT F2 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT F2 stands out for its distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured keystrokes, providing a comfortable and nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 is known for its clacky, high-pitched sound and silky typing feel, along with a light diffuser that enhances RGB lighting. Each switch has its own characteristics that appeal to different users, whether you prefer a feathery and subtle typing experience with the F2 or a clacky and vibrant one with the Lightning Silver V3. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Overall, both the KTT F2 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings, resulting in similar qualities for sound profile and aesthetics. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when keys are pressed, as well as a more resonant overall sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant and colorful effects to shine through the housing.
While both switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for top and bottom housings, the specific design and construction of these housings may vary between the KTT F2 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3. These variances can influence the overall feel and sound of the switches when used. Depending on the intended use and personal preference, users may find slight differences in typing experience and keypress feedback between the two switches, despite both featuring polycarbonate housings.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT F2 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 may come down to individual preferences in terms of sound profile, typing feel, and aesthetics. Both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate housings, providing a clear and resonant sound profile that is enhanced when used with RGB lighting. Whether one switch is preferred over the other will depend on the nuanced differences in design and construction that may impact the overall typing experience for the user.
Weight
In comparing the KTT F2 linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, it is clear that the F2 is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The F2 has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Lightning Silver V3 has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The F2 falls in the medium-light category, while the Lightning Silver V3 falls in the medium category. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the F2 for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a stronger, more substantial typing experience may prefer the Lightning Silver V3. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable options depending on personal preference.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Lightning Silver V3 has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the F2. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times. The difference of 0.1 mm may not be significant in terms of overall performance, but those who prefer a slightly shallower press may lean towards the Lightning Silver V3. On the other hand, those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses may opt for the F2. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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 and Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switches offer distinct experiences. The F2 boasts a neutral and subdued sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a lightly textured feel to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 showcases a clacky and high-pitched sound signature, providing a crisp and bright sound when pressed. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference, with the F2 offering a more subtle and tactile experience while the Lightning Silver V3 delivers a more percussive and vibrant sound.
When it comes to feel, the KTT F2 and Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switches also provide unique sensations. The F2 is described as feathery, mild, and subtle, offering a light typing experience with gentle resistance suitable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3 is labeled as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing feel that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Depending on whether a user prefers a softer, more nuanced feel or a smoother, more effortless typing experience, the choice between the two switches would vary.
Overall, the KTT F2 and Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The F2 stands out with its hollow, light texture and subdued sound profile, while the Lightning Silver V3 impresses with its clacky, high-pitched sound and smooth, silky feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that would enhance the typing experience for users, allowing them to choose based on their individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, whether opting for the KTT F2 or the Everglide Lightning Silver V3, users can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to their liking.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a unique auditory experience with a hollow sound signature and lightly textured keystrokes, along with a medium-light keypress feel that is comfortable for extended typing sessions, the KTT F2 switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a silky smooth typing experience and enhanced RGB illumination, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switch is the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
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