KTT F2 vs. Cherry MX Orange

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two prominent contenders, the KTT F2 and Cherry MX Orange, each offer unique attributes that cater to different typing preferences. The KTT F2 switches are celebrated for their distinct hollow sound signature that adds an auditory flair to the typing experience. Their medium-light weight ensures a comfortable yet substantial feel, while the lightly textured surface provides a subtle tactile feedback that enhances the overall engagement during use. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switches, reintroduced with MX2A enhancements, are revered for their legacy and reliability, crafted to meet the demands of enthusiasts seeking a consistent typing experience. While both switches fall within the linear category, the F2 prioritizes sound and tactile nuance, whereas the MX Orange focuses on legacy quality and dependable performance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT F2 Linear

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$3.90 per 10

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

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Housing materials

The KTT F2 and Cherry MX Orange switches utilize different materials for their housing, significantly impacting their acoustic profiles and resultant typing experiences. The KTT F2 features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which is known for its sturdiness and sharp sound characteristics. Polycarbonate's rigidity allows it to produce a crisper, more resonant sound, resulting in a brighter auditory feedback that can be particularly appealing for users who enjoy the tactile sensations of typing. This is especially noticeable in the KTT's top housing, where its translucency also enhances RGB lighting effects, making it visually striking in illuminated setups.

In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange employs nylon for its top and bottom housings, which lends a very different acoustic experience to its users. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and thus creates a deeper, fuller sound profile. This results in a rounder auditory feedback that can be more muted compared to the sharper notes of the KTT F2. The nylon's properties also diminish the high-pitched sounds typical of harder plastics, contributing to a more subdued typing experience. This difference becomes evident when typing, as the MX Orange's sound is less resonant, leading to a potentially more pleasant experience for those who prefer quieter keystrokes.

While the KTT F2 and Cherry MX Orange switches feature distinct materials, the impact of these housings is felt differently depending on whether you're analyzing the top or bottom of each switch. The muffled deeper tones of the Cherry MX Orange arise from its nylon composition, particularly noticeable at the bottom-out stroke, while the KTT F2's sharper sounds dominate during release due to its polycarbonate makeup. Thus, using a combination of the two materials in different configurations can create a unique auditory experience—mixing the resonant highs of polycarbonate with the inner warmth of nylon might allow for a balance of sound that caters to various preferences in typing feedback and feel.

Weight

The KTT F2 linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch exhibit distinct differences in their actuation forces, with the F2 requiring a lighter force to actuate at 43 grams compared to the MX Orange's actuation force of 55 grams. This means that typists and gamers preferring a lighter touch for extended usage might find the KTT F2 more comfortable and less fatiguing during long sessions. Conversely, users who favor a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier actuation force of the MX Orange, which provides a stronger push feel. Additionally, while the KTT F2 has a bottom out force of 53 grams, giving it a structured feel upon bottoming out, the bottom out force for the MX Orange remains unspecified. This lack of information on the bottom out force for the MX Orange makes it challenging to fully compare the two in that regard. Overall, the KTT F2 can be considered the lighter option, while the Cherry MX Orange represents the heavier alternative, catering to different user preferences in terms of tactile feedback and actuation force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, the KTT F2 measures 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Orange has a longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference indicates that the KTT F2 offers slightly shorter travel, making it potentially more responsive for users who favor quick key presses, commonly preferred by gamers. Conversely, the Cherry MX Orange, with its longer travel, may appeal more to those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when typing, as it allows for a more deliberate keystroke. Therefore, if responsiveness and speed are your priorities, the KTT F2 would be the better choice, whereas if you value a more traditional and hearty depth in keystrokes, the Cherry MX Orange would be ideal.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT F2 linear switch delivers a distinct hollow sound signature that sets it apart from its peers. This unique auditory quality is often described as neutral and subdued, producing a dampened sound when pressed. While it's not entirely silent, the F2's subtle sound profile makes it adaptable for a variety of environments, whether at home or in professional settings. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switches lack detailed sound descriptions, so it's unclear how they compare in this area. However, the F2's noteworthy acoustic properties should make it an appealing choice for those seeking a less intrusive typing experience.

In terms of feel, the KTT F2 switches excel with a combination of characteristics that prioritize comfort and ease of use. They are described as feathery, making them exceptionally light to press, which reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The mild and subtle nature of the F2's actuation results in a gentle typing experience, ideal for both gaming and productivity. In contrast, no specific feel characteristics are mentioned for the Cherry MX Orange switches. Therefore, while the MX Orange may offer a unique typing experience, the F2 provides a well-rounded and comfortable feel that is generally accessible to users.

Overall, the KTT F2 linear switch stands out with its distinct sound and exceptionally comfortable feel, making it a strong contender for those interested in mechanical keyboards. The unique hollow sound signature and the subtlety of tactile feedback provide a pleasurable typing experience that suits both casual and professional use. Since the Cherry MX Orange switches lack detailed information on sound and feel, it's challenging to make direct comparisons; however, the KTT F2's attributes alone suggest it may be a more appealing option for newcomers looking for a blend of auditory and tactile qualities.

Conclusion

To conclude, the decision between the KTT F2 and the Cherry MX Orange switch ultimately depends on your specific typing or gaming preferences. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a medium-light actuation force that provides a comfortable and subtly textured feel, the KTT F2 switch may be ideal for you. Its distinct hollow sound and subdued auditory profile make it suitable for shared environments, ensuring you won’t disturb others while enjoying a feathery and enjoyable typing experience during extended sessions. On the other hand, if you’re seeking a more robust switch with a heritage pedigree, the Cherry MX Orange, revived for modern enthusiasts, offers its own unique appeal, particularly if you appreciate the qualities of the original MX series. While the exact bottom-out force remains unspecified, the MX Orange is known for its high-quality construction and reliability, making it an excellent choice for both gaming and heavy typing tasks where durability is paramount. In essence, choose the KTT F2 for an approachable, gentle typing feel that doesn’t wear you out over time, or the Cherry MX Orange for a more traditional, reliable switch that pays homage to its esteemed past.

Mentioned in this article

KTT F2 Linear

$3.90 per 10

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Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn more