KTT F2 vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the KTT F2 and Gateron Smoothie mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that they both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT F2 is praised for its distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel, providing a comfortable typing experience with a medium-light weightiness. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie stands out with its all-POM construction, delivering a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. While the F2 is categorized as 'Feathery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Subdued', and 'Subtle', the Smoothie falls under 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', and 'Silky'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different preferences, offering users a range of options to choose from. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Gateron Smoothie, it is clear that they both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The F2's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which is ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Smoothie's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, appealing to individuals who prefer a quieter typing feel. While the F2's top housing is polycarbonate and the Smoothie's is POM, both materials offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the differences between the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing and the Smoothie's POM bottom housing are highlighted. The F2's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and clearer sound profile, which can be felt in the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. Conversely, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing offers a more pleasing and muted sound, catering to those who prefer a softer typing experience. These contrasting qualities in the bottom housing further emphasize the unique characteristics of each switch and the impact of housing materials on the overall typing feel.
Overall, while the housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Gateron Smoothie may differ in terms of polycarbonate and POM, they both provide distinct sound profiles that cater to various preferences. The choice between a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with polycarbonate or a deeper, more muted sound with POM ultimately depends on the individual's typing preferences. Whether it's the clarity of polycarbonate in the F2 or the unique sound of POM in the Smoothie, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their housing materials playing a significant role in the overall sound and feel.
Weight
The KTT F2 linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the F2 has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Smoothie's bottom out force is unknown. The F2 is slightly heavier in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Smoothie. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Smoothie, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may prefer the KTT F2. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on the user's preference, providing a choice between a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, slightly shorter than the Gateron Smoothie linear switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers for faster response times. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be noticeable to most users, but if you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for quicker key presses, the F2 may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Smoothie with its 3.6 mm travel distance would be the choice. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional options, providing users with a responsive typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, providing a moderate and dampened sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch boasts a thocky and low-pitched sound with a subtle undertone. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences with the F2 having a distinct hollow sound and the Smoothie offering a deep and rich thocky sound. When considering the sound quality of both switches, the F2 provides a more neutral and subdued tone while the Smoothie delivers a more satisfying and bass-heavy sound.
Moving on to feel, the KTT F2 linear switch has been described as feathery, mild, and subtle, providing a light and gentle typing experience with a lightly textured feel on each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is likened to being buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation with an effortless and uniform typing experience. While the F2 emphasizes lightness and comfort with its feathery feel, the Smoothie focuses on a buttery and silky smoothness that enhances typing precision and comfort.
In conclusion, the KTT F2 linear switch stands out with its distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel, providing a comfortable and nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch impresses with its thocky sound, remarkable smoothness, and lightweight touch, offering a satisfying and smooth typing sensation. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, but ultimately deliver quality performance for typing enthusiasts. Whether opting for the F2 or the Smoothie, users can expect a unique and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a distinct hollow sound signature, medium-light actuation force, and lightly textured feel, then the KTT F2 linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch would be the better option. Consider your preference for sound, feel, and actuation force when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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