KTT F2 vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT F2 linear switch to the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, one can immediately notice their distinct characteristics. The KTT F2 switches are praised for their unique hollow sound signature, providing a different auditory experience compared to the Cherry MX Browns. Additionally, the F2 switches offer a medium-light weightiness and a lightly textured feel, making them comfortable for typing without being too forceful or fleeting. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Browns are known for their subtle tactility and quiet operation, giving users a gentle typing experience with low-pitched audio feedback. Each switch has its own appeal; the F2s are categorized as 'Feathery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Subdued', 'Subtle', while the MX Browns are labeled as 'Textured', 'Bassy', 'Low-pitched'. 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
55g
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
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Cherry MX Brown switches play a significant role in the overall sound profile and feel of the key presses. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the MX Brown switches utilize a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound than polycarbonate.
In terms of the bottom housing, the KTT F2 switches also use polycarbonate, providing the same sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile that is characteristic of this material. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a varied experience when typing, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key.
While the housing materials of the KTT F2 and Cherry MX Brown switches differ in terms of the top and bottom, they both bring unique qualities to the typing experience. The KTT F2's polycarbonate housings offer a sharper and more resonant sound profile, ideal for those seeking a crisper typing sound. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switches with nylon housings provide a deeper and fuller sound, perfect for those who prefer a mellower typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, as both offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the KTT F2 linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there are slight differences between the two. The actuation force of the F2 is slightly lighter at 43 grams compared to the MX Brown's 45 grams, making the F2 a bit easier to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the F2 requires 53 grams while the MX Brown requires 55 grams, making the MX Brown slightly heavier to fully press down. Overall, both switches fall under the medium-light category in terms of force needed for actuation and bottoming out. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience with both switches in terms of weight, making them suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming activities. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a slightly lighter or heavier key press.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the F2 has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the MX Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the F2 offers a more shallow press compared to the MX Brown. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the F2, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the MX Brown. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the MX Brown being on the longer end and the F2 being slightly shorter. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT F2 comes in at $3.90, whereas the Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00.
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 stands out with a unique hollow sound signature, providing a neutral and subdued auditory experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, creating a deeper and richer audio feedback during key presses. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the subtle and gentle sound of the F2 or the more pronounced and bass-heavy sound of the MX Brown.
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 that adds a subtle tactile nuance to each keystroke. In comparison, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is described as textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed. The MX Brown offers a more pronounced tactile feedback, while the F2 delivers a softer and more approachable typing experience. Both switches fall in the light to moderate actuation force range, making them suitable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue.
In conclusion, while the KTT F2 linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offer different sound and feel qualities, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with their medium-light actuation force. Choosing between the two will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. Whether opting for the distinct hollow sound of the F2 or the gentle tactility of the MX Brown, users can expect similar results in terms of typing comfort and overall performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT F2 linear switch or the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a distinctive auditory experience with a lightly textured feel and medium-light weightiness, the F2 switches may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback, the Cherry MX Brown switches could be more suitable. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the F2 stands out for its hollow sound signature and tactile nuance, while the MX Brown excels in its subtlety and gentle tactility. Consider your sound and feel preferences carefully before making your decision, and you'll be sure to find the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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