KTT F2 vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT F2 and Durock Piano stand out as popular options in the linear switch category. The KTT F2 switches are renowned for their distinct hollow sound signature and medium-light weightiness, providing a comfortable typing experience with a lightly textured feel. On the other hand, the Durock Pianos are praised for their proprietary material blend, offering a gliding push feel and deep, creamy sound signature that make them a pleasure to type on. While the F2s are categorized as ['Feathery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Subdued', 'Subtle'] and the Pianos as ['Bassy', 'Frictionless', 'Silky'], both switches have their unique qualities that appeal to different 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The KTT F2 and Durock Piano both use different materials for their top and bottom housing, with the F2 featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the Piano having a proprietary POM blend top housing. Both these materials offer unique sound profiles, with polycarbonate providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while the POM blend offers a deep and satisfying sound. However, the exact details of the POM blend are not disclosed, making it difficult to directly compare it to polycarbonate. Nonetheless, both materials are known for their clear and resonant sound profiles, making them popular choices for switch housings.
In terms of the bottom housing, the KTT F2 utilizes polycarbonate, while the Durock Piano uses a proprietary POM blend. The qualities of these materials are split between the bottom and top of the switch, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. While the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to its clear and resonant sound profile, the Piano's POM blend bottom housing offers a uniquely satisfying sound. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a slightly varied typing experience between the two switches, with the bottom-out sound and feel being influenced by the material composition.
Overall, both the KTT F2 and Durock Piano benefit from the use of high-quality materials in their switch housings, providing users with a premium typing experience. The polycarbonate and POM blend materials used in the top and bottom housings offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the F2's polycarbonate housing is known for its sharp and clear sound, the Piano's POM blend housing offers a deep and satisfying tone. Regardless of the slight differences in material composition, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and overall typing experience from both switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, it is evident that they differ in weight. The KTT F2 has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option. On the other hand, the Durock Piano has an actuation force that is unknown and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. The lighter KTT F2 switch allows for prolonged typing and gaming sessions, ideal for those who value endurance during long periods of use. In contrast, the heavier Durock Piano switch provides a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. 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 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock Piano linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the F2 the shorter option compared to the Piano. The 3.5 mm travel distance of the KTT F2 may provide a quicker response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking faster reactions. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Durock Piano may offer a deeper press, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress feel. Both switches offer different experiences, catering to different user needs and preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT F2 linear switch is considered to have a more neutral and subdued sound profile, offering a moderate actuation force requirement and a dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch is known for its bassy sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Depending on your choice of keyboard and keycaps, the F2's hollow and textured sound may appeal to those looking for a more unique auditory experience, while the Piano's creamy and gliding push sound may suit those who prefer a smoother and deeper tone.
In terms of feel, the KTT F2 linear switch offers a feathery and mild typing experience, with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and provides a comfortable feel for extended typing sessions. The lightly textured feel of the F2 adds a tactile nuance to each keystroke, enhancing the typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch is known for its frictionless and silky smooth typing experience, with minimal resistance and a fluid travel. The gliding push feel of the Piano switch may appeal to those who prefer a smooth and effortless typing experience.
Overall, the KTT F2 and Durock Piano linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the F2 switch provides a distinct hollow sound and lightly textured feel, the Piano switch offers a creamy and bassy sound with a frictionless and silky smooth typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, you can choose between the unique auditory signature of the F2 or the smooth and deep tone of the Piano. It's important to consider your personal typing style and preferences when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch to ensure the best typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, you should consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you prioritize a distinct hollow sound signature, a medium-light bottom out force, and a lightly textured feel with a neutral or subdued sound profile, then the KTT F2 switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gliding push feel, a deep, creamy sound signature, a medium-heavy bottom out force, and a bassy sound profile, then the Durock Piano switch could be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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