KTT F2 vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT F2 and the Gateron Mini i mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that they each bring their own unique features to the table. The F2 is celebrated 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 Mini i stands out for its gentle tactility and fairly muted sound profile, perfect for maintaining a quiet professionalism in office settings. While the F2 is categorized as feathery, mild, neutral, subdued, subtle and the Mini i as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, neutral, snappy, subtle, stepped, they both offer unique advantages depending on individual 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
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT F2 and the Gateron Mini i both feature different housing materials for their top and bottom components, resulting in unique sound profiles. The F2's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, ideal for those looking for a more crisp typing experience, particularly when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Mini i's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer characteristics that absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder tone. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the F2's polycarbonate housing leans towards a clearer and resonant sound, while the Mini i's nylon housing provides a more muffled and duller tone.
Moving on to the bottom housings of the two switches, the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing continues to contribute to its sharper and crisper sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience with its clear and resonant tones. On the other hand, the Mini i's nylon bottom housing maintains its characteristic deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound and create a rounder tone. Despite the differences in sound profiles between the top and bottom housings of the two switches, both materials offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller tone, both the F2 and the Mini i have housing materials that can deliver a satisfying typing experience based on individual preferences.
In summary, the housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Gateron Mini i play a significant role in shaping the sound profiles of these switches. While the F2's polycarbonate housing creates a sharper and clearer sound, the Mini i's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller tone. The split between top and bottom housings allows for a nuanced typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, whether you prefer a crisper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller tone, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in the realm of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it is evident that the F2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Mini i's 40 grams. Similarly, the F2 also requires a higher bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Mini i only needs 50 grams. This makes the Mini i the lighter option between the two, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods. On the other hand, the F2 provides a slightly more substantial typing feel with its heavier forces, catering to users who enjoy a stronger push when typing. Both switches offer a similar experience due to their comparable actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable choices depending on the user's preference for typing force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it is clear that the F2 has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Mini i's 3.4 mm. While the difference may seem minimal, it can still impact the typing or gaming experience. The F2 linear switch offers a slightly deeper press, which may be preferred by some users who enjoy a more satisfying feel when typing. On the other hand, the Mini i tactile switch provides a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance – whether you prefer a slightly longer or shorter press. Both switches offer unique benefits, and by selecting the one that aligns with your preferences, you can achieve optimal typing or gaming performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT F2 comes in at $3.90, whereas the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT F2 linear switch offers a neutral and somewhat subdued sound profile, providing a moderate and dampened experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch also falls under the neutral category, ensuring a balanced sound profile that is suitable for various settings. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience without being overly loud or distracting, making them suitable options for shared workspaces or quieter environments.
In terms of feel, the KTT F2 linear switch offers a feathery and mild typing experience, with a subtle resistance that adds a tactile nuance to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, offering a spring-like feedback that is responsive and low-impact. While both switches fall into the mild category, they offer slightly different typing experiences that cater to different preferences, whether it be a light and textured feel or a responsive and lively sensation.
In conclusion, both the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provide unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the F2 switch offers a distinct hollow sound signature and a lightly textured feel, the Mini i switch focuses on gentle tactility and a fairly muted sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Regardless, both switches aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience without compromising on quality.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you prioritize a comfortable typing experience with a lightly textured feel and a distinct hollow sound signature, the KTT F2 switch with its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a gentle tactility in each keystroke, a fairly muted sound profile, and a lightweight design with a bottom out force of 50 grams, the Gateron Mini i switch could be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it's essential to weigh your priorities in sound, feel, and typing experience before making a decision.
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