KTT F2 vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT F2 and the Cherry Nixie, both linear switches with their own unique characteristics. The KTT F2 stands out for its distinct hollow sound signature, providing an auditory experience unlike any other. It offers a medium-light weightiness that balances comfort and responsiveness, coupled with a lightly textured feel for added tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is a revered classic known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience. With updated materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update, these switches offer a blend of tradition and modern innovation. While the F2 is categorized as feathery, mild, neutral, subdued, and subtle, and the Nixie as textured, thocky, and low-pitched, each switch has its own strengths and appeal. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
In terms of housing materials, the KTT F2 utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that creates clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie uses nylon for both its top and bottom housings, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. Despite both switches utilizing different housing materials, they each aim to enhance the overall sound and feel of typing.
One key difference between the KTT F2 and the Cherry Nixie lies in their top housing materials. The F2's polycarbonate top housing is known for creating a sharp and clear sound profile that is ideal for RGB lighting effects, while the Nixie's nylon top housing produces a duller and rounder sound that elicits a deeper tone during typing. However, both materials serve the purpose of enhancing the typing experience in their own unique ways, whether it's achieving a crisper sound or a fuller sound profile.
When comparing the bottom housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Cherry Nixie, the differences in sound profile become more apparent. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the F2 continues to contribute to its sharp and resonant sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Nixie maintains a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, both switches showcase how different housing materials can influence the overall typing experience in unique ways.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch differ significantly. The KTT F2 has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option. In comparison, the Cherry Nixie has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, categorizing it as a heavy switch. The lighter actuation force of the KTT F2 may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended periods of typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie's heavier actuation force provides a more substantial typing feel, favored by users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and bottom out resistance.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT F2 linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Nixie switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the F2 switch. The shorter travel distance of the F2 switch may appeal to those who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Nixie switch might be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more tactile feel and greater depth when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT F2 linear switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, providing a moderate and dampened auditory experience. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is described as thocky and low-pitched, producing a deep and rich sound with a bass-heavy tone. While both switches have their unique sound qualities, the choice between the two would depend on the user's preference for a more neutral and subtle sound (F2) versus a deep and satisfying thocky sound (Nixie).
In terms of feel, the KTT F2 switch is known for its feathery, mild, and subtle typing experience, offering light actuation force and a gentle resistance that reduces finger fatigue and strain. Conversely, the Cherry Nixie switch is specifically noted for its textured feel, providing noticeable friction when pressed that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. It's important to consider whether a smoother typing experience (F2) or a more textured feel (Nixie) is preferred for extended typing sessions.
Overall, the KTT F2 linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch each bring a distinct set of characteristics to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the F2 offers a more neutral and subdued sound with a feathery and mild typing feel, the Nixie delivers a thocky, low-pitched sound with a textured typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preferences for sound profile and typing feel, as both switches are designed to cater to different user preferences. If you're looking for a middle-ground option in terms of sound and feel, both switches provide a comfortable and satisfactory typing experience with their unique qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT F2 linear switch or the Cherry Nixie linear switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force for a comfortable typing experience with a lightly textured feel and a slightly subdued sound, then the KTT F2 switch would be a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force with a textured typing experience that produces a thocky, low-pitched sound, then the Cherry Nixie switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of typing feel and sound signature.
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