KTT F2 vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT F2 and Durock Sea Glass both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The KTT F2 is revered for its distinct hollow sound signature and medium-light weightiness, providing a comfortable typing experience with a lightly textured feel. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass stands out with its captivating pastel colors and proprietary material blend that exudes a dry, wispy, and airy typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches offer a mild and feathery feel, making them easy to press. 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
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT F2 and Durock Sea Glass switches offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile and aesthetics of the switches. The F2 utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffer plastic material enhances clarity and resonance, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Sea Glass switches feature a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a pleasant sound profile that leans towards the brighter side without being overly sharp.
While the F2 and Sea Glass switches both have unique top and bottom housing materials, they each contribute differently to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The polycarbonate housing of the F2 creates a more resonant and clear sound when pressing down on a key, emphasizing the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the Sea Glass switches offers a smoother and brighter sound profile, impacting the sound when releasing a key. This difference in housing materials allows for a diverse range of sound profiles and tactile feedback in each switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the KTT F2 and Durock Sea Glass switches, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The use of polycarbonate in the F2 creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend in the Sea Glass switches offer a pleasant and bright sound without being overly sharp. Whether you prefer a more resonant and clear sound or a smoother and brighter sound, both switches provide options for customizing your typing experience based on your preference for sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
In comparing the KTT F2 linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role. The KTT F2 has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Durock Sea Glass with 45 grams, making the F2 slightly easier to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the F2 requires 53 grams while the Sea Glass needs 62 grams, making the Sea Glass provide a more substantial typing experience. While both switches fall into the medium-light category for actuation force, the Sea Glass leans towards a heavier bottom out force, catering to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and weight.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock Sea Glass linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Sea Glass switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the F2 switch. The F2 switch falls on the shorter end of the spectrum with a 3.5 mm travel distance, making it a favorable choice for those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch's 3.8 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth to the key press, which may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Despite their differences in travel distance, both switches aim to provide a smooth and efficient typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results regardless of their choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT F2 linear switch provides a neutral and subdued sound experience, making it suitable for various purposes. It offers a moderate actuation force requirement and a dampened sound when pressed, catering to a broad range of users. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch produces a uniquely hollow sound signature that adds to its overall typing experience. Although specific descriptors for the Sea Glass sound are not provided, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT F2 switch offers a feathery, mild, and subtle typing experience. The light actuation force and gentle resistance provide a comfortable typing feel that is suitable for extended use. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass switch is described as frictionless, mild, feathery, and easy-to-press. These qualities contribute to a smooth and effortless typing experience that minimizes resistance and fatigue, enhancing the overall typing efficiency.
In conclusion, both the KTT F2 and Durock Sea Glass linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The F2 switch stands out for its lightly textured feel and distinct hollow sound signature, providing a comfortable and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch series presents a captivating selection with a smooth and frictionless typing feel, accompanied by a uniquely hollow sound signature. Depending on individual preferences and typing needs, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel from both switches, albeit with their distinct characteristics contributing to an enhanced typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, you should consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a subtly textured feel and a neutral sound profile, the F2 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a switch with a distinct dryness, airiness, and frictionless feel, the Sea Glass switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for. Whichever switch you choose, both the F2 and Sea Glass offer unique characteristics that set them apart in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches.
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