KTT F2 vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT F2 and the Outemu Maple Leaf offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. The KTT F2 is a linear switch that stands out for its distinct hollow sound signature, providing an auditory experience unlike any other. Its medium-light weightiness ensures a comfortable typing sensation, with each keystroke offering a lightly textured feel for added tactile nuance. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf is a tactile switch that may lack a standout feature but provides a reliable and solid typing experience. It is important to consider the feathery and mild attributes of the F2 switch and the neutral and subdued nature of the Maple Leaf switch when deciding which one suits your typing preferences. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Outemu Maple Leaf, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The F2 boasts a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf features a nylon top and bottom housing, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. While both housing materials offer distinct sound profiles, the F2's polycarbonate delivers a clear and resonant tone, while the Maple Leaf's nylon provides a duller and rounder sound.
Despite their differences, both the F2 and the Maple Leaf benefit from their respective housing materials to enhance the overall sound experience of the switch. For those who prefer a more vibrant and clearer sound profile, the F2's polycarbonate housing is the ideal choice, especially for users looking to incorporate RGB lighting with its transparent properties. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's nylon housing appeals to individuals seeking a deeper and fuller sound while typing. Both switches offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials, catering to a variety of preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT F2 and the Outemu Maple Leaf comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While the F2's polycarbonate housing produces a crisper and sharper tone, the Maple Leaf's nylon housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. Whether one seeks a more resonant sound with the F2 or a rounder sound with the Maple Leaf, both switches showcase the impact that housing materials can have on the overall typing experience. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, users can expect high-quality performance and sound from both the F2 and the Maple Leaf switches.
Weight
The KTT F2 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch's heavier actuation force of 55 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the F2 is lighter at 53 grams, while the Maple Leaf is heavier at 65 grams. The F2 provides a medium-light typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Maple Leaf offers a medium-heavy feel, ideal for users who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Both switches have distinct characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. However, the F2 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Maple Leaf. If you prefer a switch with a bit more depth to the keypress, you may lean towards the KTT F2. On the other hand, if you prefer a more immediate and responsive feel, the Outemu Maple Leaf may be the better choice for you. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance, providing a quick and efficient typing 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 Maple Leaf 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
Overall, the KTT F2 linear switch offers a unique hollow sound signature with a medium-light weightiness, creating a comfortable typing experience. Each keystroke provides a lightly textured feel, adding a tactile nuance to the user's typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch does not have specific information available regarding sound or feel characteristics. In terms of sound, the F2 switch is described as neutral and subdued, making it suitable for various purposes. When it comes to feel, the F2 switch is described as feathery, mild, and subtle, offering a light typing experience with minimal strain on fingers. As the Maple Leaf switch lacks specific descriptions in these areas, it is difficult to directly compare the two switches. However, based on the available information, it can be concluded that the KTT F2 switch may offer a more distinct sound and feel experience compared to the Outemu Maple Leaf switch. Ultimately, it is recommended that users try out both switches to determine which one best suits their preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a medium-light bottom out force, a distinct hollow sound signature, and a lightly textured feel, then the F2 switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch with specific sound and feel characteristics, the Maple Leaf switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall experience you are looking to achieve with your mechanical keyboard.
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