KTT F2 vs. Gateron Lunar Probe

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT F2, a linear switch, and the Gateron Lunar Probe, also a linear switch. The KTT F2 switches are praised for their distinct hollow sound signature, offering a unique auditory experience while typing. They provide a medium-light weightiness for comfortable typing, coupled with a lightly textured feel for added tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe switches stand out for their innovative dual rail mechanism, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses. These switches deliver an incredibly smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation, accompanied by a subtle sound signature. While both switches offer desirable features, such as a comfortable typing experience and smooth keypresses, they each bring their own unique characteristics to the table. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT F2 Linear

Gateron Lunar Probe Linear

$3.90 per 10

$6.50

$4.19 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Gateron Lunar Probe both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic enhances the clear and resonant sound of both switches. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, the bottom housing of the F2 remains polycarbonate, while the Lunar Probe opts for a nylon bottom housing. This choice gives the F2 a consistent sound profile throughout the switch, while the nylon bottom housing of the Lunar Probe provides a deeper and fuller sound experience due to its softer nature.

Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, the F2 and the Lunar Probe differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The F2 maintains a polycarbonate bottom housing, enhancing the overall sound profile with its stiffer plastic properties. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe incorporates a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a softer and more absorbent material that creates a duller and rounder sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material impacts the overall typing experience, with the F2 offering a more consistent sound and feel throughout the keystroke, while the Lunar Probe provides a deeper and fuller sound during typing.

In conclusion, the housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Gateron Lunar Probe play a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and resonant sound, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The F2's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a consistent sound profile, while the Lunar Probe's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. Ultimately, the differences in bottom housing material highlight how each switch brings a unique typing experience to the user based on the characteristics of their housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it is clear that both switches fall into the lighter category. The F2 has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Lunar Probe has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Lunar Probe slightly lighter in both categories. Many users prefer lighter switches as they allow for longer typing sessions without fatigue, perfect for work or gaming. However, some may prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, which would lead them to choose options with heavier forces. Overall, both the KTT F2 and Gateron Lunar Probe switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a comfortable typing experience for users who prefer lighter switches.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the KTT F2 linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their quicker response times. However, some may find the difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches to be negligible in practice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference – those who prefer a slightly deeper keypress may opt for the Lunar Probe, while those who prioritize speed and responsiveness may lean towards the F2. Both switches offer a modern alternative to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, providing a balance between key travel depth and quick keystrokes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT F2 linear switch offers a distinctive hollow sound signature that sets it apart, providing a unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is described as having a subtle sound signature, offering a more subdued and smooth typing experience. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, but the F2 may have a more noticeable sound profile due to its hollow signature, while the Lunar Probe offers a quieter typing experience with its pre-lubed linear sensation.

When it comes to feel, the KTT F2 linear switch provides a lightly textured feel with a medium-light weightiness, adding a tactile nuance to every keystroke. This can enhance the typing experience and provide a level of feedback to the user. In contrast, the feel of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is not specified, but it is known to feature Gateron's dual rail mechanism for stable and consistent keypresses, ensuring a smooth and reliable typing experience.

Overall, the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The F2 may appeal to those who enjoy a distinct sound signature and a lightly textured feel, while the Lunar Probe may be suitable for those looking for a smooth and stable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the user's typing needs. Both switches are likely to provide a satisfactory typing experience, with the F2 offering a more audible typing experience and the Lunar Probe providing a smoother, more subdued sound profile.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, consider the key factors that differentiate them. If you prioritize a distinct hollow sound signature and a lightly textured feel in your typing experience, the F2 switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value stable and consistent keypresses, along with an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, the Lunar Probe switch could be the ideal option. Additionally, if you prefer a keyboard switch with a neutral or subdued sound profile and a feathery, mild, or subtle typing feel, the F2 and Lunar Probe switches each offer their own strengths in these aspects. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in sound, feel, and overall typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

KTT F2 Linear

$3.90 per 10

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Gateron Lunar Probe Linear

$6.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more