KTT F2 vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT F2 and BSUN Olive stand out for their unique characteristics. The F2 switch offers a distinct hollow sound and lightly textured feel with its linear design, providing a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Olive switch boasts a resonant sound and pronounced tactile feedback, making each keystroke satisfyingly sharp and distinct. While the F2 switch is described as 'feathery' and 'subtle', the Olive switch is categorized as 'invigorating' and 'snappy'. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style; 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
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT F2 and the Bsun Olive both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their individual sound profiles. The F2 utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffer plastic material enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switch. In contrast, the Olive opts for a POM top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. These differences in housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users, providing distinct auditory feedback with each keystroke.
Despite their differences, the F2 and the Olive share similarities in their housing materials. For instance, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, allowing for a clearer sound profile that is ideal for RGB lighting effects due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Olive's POM bottom housing offers a unique sound profile with deeper tones, providing users with a more subdued typing experience. While the specific qualities of each housing material may differ, both the F2 and the Olive ultimately aim to enhance the overall tactile and auditory feedback for users, making them popular choices among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the typing experience, it is evident that each plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of a switch. The qualities of the bottom housing material will have a more pronounced effect on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material will influence the sound when a key is released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings ensures that users receive a balanced typing experience with a combination of sharp, crisp sounds and deeper, more muted tones. Whether opting for the F2 with its polycarbonate housing or the Olive with its POM housing, users can expect a unique and satisfying typing experience tailored to their preferences.
Weight
The KTT F2 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Bsun Olive tactile switch's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the F2 requires 53 grams while the Olive needs 65 grams, making the Olive the heavier option for both actuation and bottom out forces. The lighter actuation force of the F2 may be preferred for those who type or game for extended periods, as it requires less effort to trigger keystrokes. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force of the Olive provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a different tactile experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences of keyboard users.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch both have relatively short travel distances compared to traditional switches. The F2 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Olive has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches offer a quick and responsive keystroke, making them ideal for gamers who require fast response times. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Olive switch to be too abrupt, preferring the slightly longer travel distance of the F2 switch for a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT F2 linear switches offer a neutral and somewhat subdued sound profile, providing a moderate auditory experience that suits various environments and typing preferences. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive tactile switches produce a resonant and deep sound when pressed, which can add a satisfying auditory element to typing sessions. While the F2 switches may be more subdued, the Olive switches provide a more pronounced and satisfying sound experience due to their unique design and materials.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT F2 linear switches offer a feathery and mild typing experience with a lightly textured feel that adds a tactile nuance to keystrokes. This light actuation force makes them comfortable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. In contrast, the Bsun Olive tactile switches provide an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback with a firm actuation force, creating a more immersive typing sensation. The combination of the unique design and long pole stem in the Olive switches ensures a crisp bottom-out and satisfying typing experience.
Overall, the KTT F2 linear switches and Bsun Olive tactile switches offer distinct characteristics in both sound and feel. While the F2 switches provide a neutral and subdued sound profile with a feathery and mild typing feel, the Olive switches deliver a resonant sound experience with an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-light actuation force with a distinct hollow sound and lightly textured feel, the F2 switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy actuation force with a resonant, deep sound and pronounced tactile feedback for a satisfying typing experience, the Olive switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. Happy typing!
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