KTT F2 vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT F2 linear switch to the Outemu Blue clicky switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT F2 stands out for its distinct hollow sound signature, providing an auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches. With a medium-light weightiness, typing on the F2 is comfortable and not too forceful or fleeting. Each keystroke on the F2 switches also offers a lightly textured feel, adding a tactile nuance to every press. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch is known for its clicky sound and tactile feedback, offering a more traditional typing experience. While the F2 is categorized as 'Feathery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Subdued', 'Subtle', the Outemu Blue does not have a specific category listed. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience; 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
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Outemu Blue, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the F2. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
The difference in bottom housing materials between the KTT F2 and the Outemu Blue leads to distinct typing experiences. The F2's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound and feel, complementing the qualities of the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more subdued typing experience. Additionally, the split in housing materials means that the impact of pressing a key and letting go of it will be influenced by the qualities of the bottom and top housings, respectively.
While the KTT F2 and the Outemu Blue both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, their differing bottom housing materials result in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The F2's polycarbonate bottom housing enhances the sharp and clear sound of its top housing, while the Outemu Blue's nylon bottom housing adds a deeper and fuller tone to its typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing. If a similar sound profile is desired, opting for switches with polycarbonate housings for both the top and bottom components would likely yield comparable results.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the F2 is lighter in terms of actuation force at 43 grams, whereas the Blue requires a slightly heavier force of 50 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, but the F2 has been measured at 53 grams, which indicates a medium-light feel. The actuation force is crucial for triggering keystrokes, while bottom out force determines the overall typing experience by measuring the pressure needed to press the key all the way down. The F2 provides a lighter typing experience, suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Blue offers a stronger push feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Blue clicky switch's 4 mm travel distance. The difference may not seem significant, but it can be felt when typing or gaming for extended periods. The shorter travel distance of the F2 switch provides a quicker response time, favored by gamers looking for swift reactions. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Blue switch may offer a more satisfying tactile feedback for some users who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you prefer.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT F2 comes in at $3.90, whereas the Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10.
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 switch offers a unique hollow sound signature that is distinct from many other switches on the market. This sound profile can add a certain character to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it's hard to compare in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT F2 linear switch provides a lightly textured feel with a medium-light weightiness, offering a comfortable typing experience that strikes a balance between being too forceful or fleeting. This can lead to a pleasant typing experience for extended periods. The feel of the Outemu Blue clicky switch is unknown, so it's challenging to make a direct comparison in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience.
Overall, based on the available information, the KTT F2 linear switch stands out for its unique hollow sound signature and comfortable, lightly textured feel. While the sound and feel of the Outemu Blue clicky switch remain unknown, if you are looking for a switch with similar properties to the F2, you may want to consider switches that are described as neutral or feathery for a moderate actuation force and light typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the KTT F2 and Outemu Blue switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound and feel during typing.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a comfortable typing experience with a distinct hollow sound signature and medium-light weightiness, the F2 would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more audible clicky switch without a specified bottom out force, the Blue may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Mentioned in this article
