KTT F2 vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the linear KTT F2 and the clicky Outemu Gold switches. The KTT F2 switches are known for their distinct hollow sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience while typing. With a medium-light weightiness, they offer a comfortable typing feel that strikes a balance between being too forceful or too light. Additionally, each keystroke on the F2 switches provides a lightly textured feel, adding a tactile nuance to your typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold switches do not have a standout feature but are categorized differently. While the F2 switches are categorized as 'Feathery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Subdued', and 'Subtle', the Gold switches have their own characteristics. However, to truly determine the best switch for your needs, it's important to delve deeper beyond these generalities.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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 Gold switches, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. In contrast, the Outemu Gold switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the KTT F2. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile when typing on the Gold switches.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both the KTT F2 and Outemu Gold switches share the same top housing material qualities. The split between the top and bottom housings allows each material to influence different aspects of the switch's sound and feel. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This means that while the F2 and Gold switches may have distinct sound profiles due to their bottom housing materials, they will exhibit similar characteristics in terms of top housing impact on key release sound.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of typing. The polycarbonate top housing of both the KTT F2 and Outemu Gold switches creates a sharp and clear sound profile ideal for RGB lighting setups. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Gold switches offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, contrasting with the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the KTT F2. Ultimately, the split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a unique typing experience with each switch, highlighting the importance of material selection in switch design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, there are some notable differences. The F2 has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Gold's 45 grams, making it slightly easier to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the F2 requires 53 grams of force while the Gold needs 60 grams, resulting in a more substantial typing experience with the Gold switch. Overall, the F2 offers a lighter typing feel, making it ideal for extended typing sessions, while the Gold switch provides a heavier touch for those who prefer a more robust typing experience. Both switches offer a medium level of force, but the slight variations in actuation and bottom out forces cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Gold clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing or gaming experience for users. Those who prefer a quicker response time may lean towards the KTT F2 switch due to its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster key presses. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy more key depth and feedback may opt for the Outemu Gold switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer their own advantages based on individual preferences, with the F2 providing speed and the Gold offering more tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT F2 comes in at $3.90, whereas the Outemu Gold 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
The KTT F2 linear switch is distinguished by its unique hollow sound signature, offering a medium-light weightiness that strikes a balance between a forceful and fleeting typing experience. This switch also provides a lightly textured feel with each keystroke, adding a tactile nuance to typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch does not have any specific sound or feel descriptors available, leaving its subjective qualities in these areas unknown.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral and subdued sound profile, as well as a feathery, mild, or subtle typing feel, the KTT F2 linear switch would be a suitable choice. While the sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Gold clicky switch remain unspecified, opting for the KTT F2 may result in a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Remember that sound can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used, so consider these factors when deciding on the right switch for your needs.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when considering whether to choose the KTT F2 linear switch or the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a distinct hollow sound signature, a comfortable medium-light typing experience, and a lightly textured feel with each keystroke, then the F2 switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force and are looking for a switch that offers a unique sound profile and feel, you may find the Gold clicky switch more to your liking. Remember to consider factors such as sound, feel, and your intended use case when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the best switch for you is the one that aligns with your preferences and enhances your overall typing experience.
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