KTT F2 vs. Durock Medium Tactile
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Durock Medium Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT F2 linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile switch each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The KTT F2 switches are praised for their distinct hollow sound signature and a comfortable typing experience, with a lightly textured feel adding tactile nuance to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch stands out for its pronounced yet balanced tactility and jelly-like sound signature. While the F2 switch falls into the category of being feathery, mild, neutral, subdued, and subtle, the Medium Tactile switch is described as accented, stepped, mild, and polished. These general pointers can help you decide which switch may suit your typing style and preferences best; 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT F2 and Durock Medium Tactile both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the resonance and clarity of the sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. In contrast, the F2 has a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Medium Tactile utilizes a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Medium Tactile creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
Despite their differences in bottom housing material, the KTT F2 and Durock Medium Tactile share the commonality of having polycarbonate top housings. This means that both switches will produce a similar sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound when the key is released. However, where they will differ is in the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, with the F2 offering a potentially clearer and more resonant sound due to the polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Medium Tactile may provide a deeper and fuller sound thanks to its nylon bottom housing. These subtle variations in housing materials can impact the overall typing experience and sound preference for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
In terms of aesthetics, the clear housing material of both switches allows for a visually pleasing look, especially when paired with RGB lighting. The transparent nature of polycarbonate adds a modern and sleek touch to the switches, enhancing the overall appearance of the keyboard. Whether choosing the KTT F2 with its all-polycarbonate construction or the Durock Medium Tactile with a mix of polycarbonate and nylon, users can appreciate the versatility and customization options that come with these different housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to individual sound and feel preferences, as well as the desired visual impact on the keyboard setup.
Weight
The KTT F2 linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch have notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force. The F2 has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, while the Medium Tactile's actuation force is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the F2 requires 53 grams, which is lighter compared to the Medium Tactile's 65 grams. The F2 provides a medium-light typing experience, whereas the Medium Tactile offers a medium-heavy feel. Those looking for a switch with a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may prefer the F2, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Medium Tactile due to its heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the Durock Medium Tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The F2 would provide a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile switch offers a bit more depth to the keypress, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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 that sets it apart from other switches, giving it a neutral and subdued sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch has a jelly-like sound signature and is described as having a more accented tactility, which may result in a more pronounced sound when typing. The choice of sound between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference, with the F2 providing a more subtle and neutral sound, while the Medium Tactile offers a more accentuated and tactile typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT F2 linear switch offers a feathery and mild typing experience with a lightly textured feel on each keystroke. This results in a comfortable typing experience that is not too heavy, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as having a stepped and polished feel, providing a more refined and tactile typing experience. The Medium Tactile switch offers a more prominent tactility that is not overwhelming, making it suitable for those who prefer a switch with a bit more feedback.
Overall, both the KTT F2 linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The F2 provides a more subdued sound and a mild typing experience, while the Medium Tactile switch offers a more accented tactile feedback and a stepped typing feel. Both switches are suitable for a variety of typing preferences, with the choice between the two ultimately depending on whether you prefer a more neutral sound and feathery feel or a more tactile and polished typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for those looking to customize their keyboard to suit their preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a comfortable typing experience with a lightly textured feel and a distinct hollow sound signature, the F2 may be the best choice for you. The medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams ensures a balanced typing feel for various tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a pronounced yet balanced tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, the Medium Tactile switch offers a different tactile experience. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, it provides a medium-heavy typing feel suitable for those who enjoy a more tactile response. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force to enhance your overall typing experience.
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