KTT F2 vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the KTT F2 and the SP-Star Meteor White, both linear switches. The KTT F2 switches are known for their distinct hollow sound signature, offering a medium-light weightiness for a comfortable typing experience. Each keystroke on the F2 switches provides a lightly textured feel, adding a tactile nuance to your typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White switches are characterized by their subdued nature, offering a gentle and soft typing experience with a pitter-patter sound profile. The Meteor White switches are easy to push and provide a polished typing experience. Both switches offer their unique strengths, with the F2 being feathery, mild, neutral, subdued, subtle and the Meteor White being neutral, mild, thocky, polished. 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
57g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the KTT F2 and the SP-Star Meteor White, it's evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The F2 incorporates polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Meteor White features a nylon top and bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. The differences in sound profiles can be attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate in the F2, creating a clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon in the Meteor White absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the F2 is translucent, allowing for RGB lighting to shine through. This feature is not present in the Meteor White, which has a solid nylon top housing. However, both switches offer a unique sound experience based on their respective housing materials. While the F2 focuses on a crisper and sharper sound profile thanks to its polycarbonate housing, the Meteor White provides a fuller and deeper sound due to its nylon housing. These differences in sound characteristics cater to individual preferences for typing experiences.
Overall, the choice between the KTT F2 and the SP-Star Meteor White will come down to personal preference in typing sound and feel. The split housing materials in both switches showcase the impact that the top and bottom housings have on the overall typing experience. The F2's polycarbonate housing emphasizes clarity and resonance, particularly noticeable when releasing a key, while the Meteor White's nylon housing offers a more absorbing and rounder sound, especially during bottom-out. Regardless of which switch is chosen, users can expect a unique and satisfying typing experience based on the distinct qualities of their housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and SP-Star Meteor White linear switch both fall under the category of medium-light switches. The KTT F2 has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the SP-Star Meteor White has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 57 grams. This makes the SP-Star Meteor White slightly heavier when bottoming out compared to the KTT F2, although the actuation force of the SP-Star Meteor White is unknown. Both switches provide a balance between a light typing experience and a more substantial push feel. If the actuation forces are similar, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the force required to trigger keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight considerations for different typing or gaming scenarios.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch. The F2 switch offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch provides a bit more depth and cushioning with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial key press. Both options have their advantages depending on personal preference, with the F2 offering a quicker and more responsive feel, while the Meteor White provides a more satisfying key press experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize speed or depth in your typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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, both the KTT F2 and SP-Star Meteor White switches fall into the category of neutral switches, offering a moderate sound profile suitable for various uses. However, the F2 switches have a distinct hollow sound signature, adding a unique auditory experience to typing. On the other hand, the Meteor White switches provide a gentle, pitter-patter sound profile, giving a softer overall sound experience. Depending on personal preference, users may find the F2 switches more appealing for their distinctive sound or the Meteor White switches for their subdued and gentle sound.
Moving on to feel, the KTT F2 switches offer a lightly textured feel, adding a tactile nuance to each keystroke. Described as feathery and mild, these switches provide a comfortable typing experience without causing finger fatigue. In contrast, the SP-Star Meteor White switches are characterized as offering a polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both sets of switches offer a gentle typing experience, with the F2 switches having a slightly more textured feel compared to the polished feel of the Meteor White switches.
Overall, both the KTT F2 and SP-Star Meteor White linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the F2 switches stand out with their distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel, the Meteor White switches provide a softer and more subdued sound profile along with a polished typing experience. Choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their specific needs and preferences. Additionally, it's important to note that both switches fall under the neutral category in terms of sound, making them versatile options for a wide range of users and environments.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT F2 linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you appreciate a distinct hollow sound and lightly textured feel, the F2 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued sound profile and a gentle typing experience, the Meteor White could be the better option. Both switches offer a medium-light bottom out force, making them comfortable for extended use. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal typing style and preferences for sound and feel.