KTT F2 vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT F2 and Gateron Mountain Top stand out as top contenders in the linear switch category. The KTT F2 switches are renowned for their distinct hollow sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience while typing. With a medium-light weightiness and lightly textured keystrokes, the F2s offer a comfortable and tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Mountain Top switches are tailored for office environments, focusing on discreet typing with a quiet yet lightly actuated feel. While the F2s are characterized as 'Feathery' and 'Subdued', the Mountain Top switches are labeled as 'Bouncy' and 'Subtle'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, but diving deeper into the specifics can help you determine the best fit for your needs.
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
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Gateron Mountain Top, it is clear that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The F2 features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile, especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Mountain Top utilizes a nylon top housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the polycarbonate in the F2 emphasizes clarity and resonance, while the nylon in the Mountain Top produces a rounder and duller sound.
In terms of the bottom housings, the F2 and Mountain Top continue to showcase differences in their housing materials. The F2's polycarbonate bottom housing mirrors the qualities of its top housing, providing a sharp and crisp sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. Conversely, the Mountain Top's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The contrasting characteristics of these housing materials demonstrate how different plastics can influence the sound and tactile feedback of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Overall, while the F2 and Mountain Top switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their housing materials, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both materials have their own advantages and contribute to the overall typing experience in their own unique ways. Whether you prefer the sharper and clearer sound of polycarbonate in the F2 or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the Mountain Top, each switch offers a different tactile and auditory experience that caters to individual preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on the specific sound profile and feel that you desire in your mechanical keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it is evident that the F2 requires a slightly heavier force for both actuation and bottoming out compared to the Mountain Top. The F2 has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Mountain Top has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Mountain Top lighter in terms of force required, making it more suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the F2 provides a more substantial typing feel with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the decision between the two would ultimately depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard, making them ideal for gamers seeking faster response times. The F2 offers slightly more travel distance than the Mountain Top, which may provide a slightly more cushioned feel when typing. However, both switches are considered to have a shorter travel distance, so the difference in feel may be minimal. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the level of depth and responsiveness desired in a keyboard switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT F2 comes in at $3.90, whereas the Gateron Mountain Top 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
In terms of sound, both the KTT F2 and Gateron Mountain Top switches fall under the descriptor of neutral, providing a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. However, the F2 switches offer a more subdued sound compared to the Mountain Top, which aims for a quieter typing experience with its design geared towards office environments. The F2's distinct hollow sound signature sets it apart, while the Mountain Top balances a subdued sound signature with light actuation for discreet typing.
When it comes to feel, the F2 switches offer a feathery, mild, and subtle typing experience with lightly textured keystrokes, catering to comfort during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top switches provide a bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle feel, focusing on responsiveness and comfort without causing finger fatigue. Both switches fall under the mild descriptor, offering a gentle typing experience suitable for most users.
Overall, while the sound profiles of the KTT F2 and Gateron Mountain Top switches may differ slightly in terms of subtlety, both provide comfortable and versatile typing experiences. The F2 switches excel with their hollow sound signature and textured feel, creating a unique typing experience. Meanwhile, the Mountain Top switches prioritize quietness and responsiveness, making them ideal for professional settings. Ultimately, both switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel, ensuring that users will achieve satisfactory results with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, your choice will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you value a distinct hollow sound signature and a lightly textured feel with a medium-light weightiness, then the KTT F2 switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience with a comfortably light actuation force, especially in a professional setting, then the Gateron Mountain Top switch is the better option. Ultimately, consider your desired sound profile and typing feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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