KTT F2 vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT F2 and Dareu Master are two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches each offering unique features to enhance your typing experience. The F2 is praised for its distinct hollow sound signature and medium-light weightiness, providing a comfortable typing experience with a lightly textured feel. On the other hand, the Master switch from Dareu strikes a medium weight, offering a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation. While the F2 is characterized as feathery, mild, neutral, subdued, and subtle, the Master is categorized as clacky, mild, and polished. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different 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
45g
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
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
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Dareu Master keyboards play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and overall feel of the switches. The F2's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, especially ideal for users who plan to use RGB lighting. In contrast, the Master's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, providing a unique auditory experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the F2's polycarbonate and the Master's POM materials impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the F2 contributes to the sharp and crisp sound profile, while the POM bottom housing of the Master creates a pleasing and deeper sound. The difference in sound profiles between the two keyboards can be attributed to the choice of materials used in their respective bottom housings.
Overall, the usage of different materials for the top and bottom housings of the switches results in a split impact on the sound and feel of the keys. The qualities of the bottom housing material are more prominent during key presses, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the qualities of the top housing material become more noticeable when the key is released, influencing the sound at that moment. Despite the differences in housing materials between the KTT F2 and the Dareu Master, both keyboards offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences to cater to a variety of user preferences.
Weight
The KTT F2 linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Dareu Master linear switch with 45 grams. However, the F2 has a heavier bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Master's bottom out force is unknown. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference, as some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the F2 for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the slightly heavier actuation force of the Master for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer different experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gamers seeking faster response times. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be noticeable to the average user, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper key press, the F2 may provide a slightly more satisfying feel. Ultimately, whether you choose the F2 or the Master will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience you prefer.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT F2 linear switch offers a unique hollow sound signature, creating a distinctive auditory experience compared to the Dareu Master switch, which is known for its classic clacky sound profile. The F2 is described as having a neutral and subdued sound, striking a balance between actuation force and sound profile suitable for various users and environments. On the other hand, the Master switch is characterized as clacky, delivering a sharp and snappy sound with a crisp and bright quality. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the KTT F2 provides a lightly textured feel with a medium-light weightiness, offering a comfortable and tactile typing experience. Described as feathery, mild, and subtle, the F2 switch reduces finger fatigue with its light actuation force, making it suitable for extended typing sessions. In comparison, the Dareu Master switch is noted for its mild and polished feel, offering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience with their respective characteristics.
Overall, while the KTT F2 and Dareu Master linear switches offer different sound and feel qualities, both switches are designed to cater to users seeking a comfortable and versatile typing experience. Whether you prefer the distinct hollow sound of the F2 or the classic clacky sound of the Master, you can expect a smooth operation and comfortable typing feel from either switch. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel, the F2 may be the ideal choice for you. Its medium-light weightiness provides a comfortable typing experience without being too forceful. On the other hand, if you prefer a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation, the Master switch from Dareu may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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