KTT F2 vs. Outemu Silent White
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Outemu Silent White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT F2 linear switch to the Outemu Silent White linear switch, both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The KTT F2 switch stands out with its distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel, providing a comfortable typing experience with a subtle tactile nuance. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White switch remains silent in operation, making it ideal for environments where noise may be a concern. While the F2 switch falls under the categories of 'Feathery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Subdued', and 'Subtle', the Silent White switch does not have any specific categorization. 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
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT F2 and Outemu Silent White switches both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. On the other hand, the Silent White switches have a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound profile.
The difference in housing materials between the F2 and Silent White switches is noticeable when typing, as the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings highlight the importance of both materials in creating the overall typing experience. While both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, the F2's sharper sound contrasts with the Silent White's deeper and fuller sound produced by the nylon bottom housing. This distinction emphasizes the unique sound profiles that can be achieved through varying housing materials.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the KTT F2 and Outemu Silent White switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches creates a clear and resonant sound, ideal for users seeking a sharper typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in the Silent White switches provides a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to those who prefer a rounder and duller sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound and feel when typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, it is evident that the F2 is lighter in both aspects. The F2 has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Silent White has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. The F2 offers a slightly lighter typing experience compared to the Silent White, which may be preferred by those looking for a keyboard that allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Silent White provides a slightly heavier push feel, offering a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The F2 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Silent White has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. While the F2 has a slightly longer travel distance, both switches fall within the range of moderate travel distances commonly found in mechanical keyboards. Generally, a shorter travel distance can lead to faster response times, making it a popular choice for gamers seeking quick reactions. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can provide a more substantial key press feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for the feel and responsiveness of the keys.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT F2 comes in at $3.90, whereas the Outemu Silent White 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, setting it apart in the auditory realm. It falls under the neutral and subdued sound categories, providing a moderate sound profile with a dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White linear switch does not have a specific sound description available. It is important to consider that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the KTT F2 linear switch provides a lightly textured feel with a medium-light weightiness, offering a comfortable typing experience that is neither too forceful nor too fleeting. It falls under the feathery, mild, and subtle feel categories, making it suitable for extended typing sessions. Conversely, information on the feel of the Outemu Silent White linear switch is not available.
In conclusion, the KTT F2 linear switch stands out with its distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel, making it a versatile option for various typing preferences. While the specific sound and feel characteristics of the Outemu Silent White linear switch are not provided, it is important to test and compare both switches in person to determine which one aligns better with individual preferences and typing needs. Ultimately, both switches may offer similar results in terms of sound and feel, providing a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a unique hollow sound signature with lightly textured keystrokes and a medium-light bottom out force for a comfortable typing experience, the KTT F2 switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and a more subdued sound profile, suitable for various typing environments, the Outemu Silent White switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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