KTT F2 vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT F2 and Jwick Taro stand out as unique options for different preferences. The KTT F2, a linear switch, is favored for its distinct hollow sound signature and medium-light weight that ensures a comfortable typing experience. Each keystroke offers a lightly textured feel, adding a tactile nuance to every word and command. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro, a tactile switch, provides a cozy typing experience with a snappy medium level of tactility and crisp clacks. While the F2 is categorized as light, mild, neutral, and subtle, the Taro falls under the categories of neutral and buttery. When deciding between the two, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and how you prioritize sound, feel, and typing experience. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 KTT F2 and the Jwick Taro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This makes them ideal choices for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant light to shine through. However, the F2 also incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, ensuring a consistent sound profile throughout the keystroke. In contrast, the Taro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound when typing, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound.
While both switches share the benefits of having a polycarbonate top housing for a clear and resonant sound, they differ in their choices for the bottom housing material. The F2's polycarbonate bottom housing complements the top housing, maintaining a consistent sound profile and overall feel. Conversely, the Taro's nylon bottom housing offers a contrasting experience with a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its sound-absorbing properties. This highlights how the choice of housing material can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, showcasing the importance of selecting the right combination to achieve the desired typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT F2 and the Jwick Taro comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Those who prefer a crisper and more resonant typing experience may lean towards the F2 with its polycarbonate top and bottom housings. On the other hand, individuals looking for a deeper and fuller sound profile may find the Taro's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing more to their liking. Both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, demonstrating how small variations can lead to distinct typing experiences.
Weight
The KTT F2 linear switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Jwick Taro tactile switch has an actuation force that is not specified and a bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. The difference in weight between the two switches is quite noticeable, with the Taro being the heavier of the two. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the F2 for longer typing sessions or gaming, while users seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the heavier Taro switch. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the overall typing experience for each switch.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The F2 is slightly shorter than the Taro, but the difference of 0.2 mm may not be noticeable to everyone. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the F2, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Taro. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm and can provide a satisfying typing or gaming experience depending on individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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, both the KTT F2 and Jwick Taro switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of typing environments. The F2 switches offer a more subdued and dampened sound, while the Taro switches provide a crisper and more acute sound with snappy clacks. Ultimately, your choice of keyboard, keycaps, and typing habits will also play a role in the final sound outcome.
When it comes to feel, the F2 switches offer a feathery and mild tactile experience, providing a comfortable typing sensation with a lightly textured feel. On the other hand, the Taro switches are described as buttery and stepped, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke with a medium level of tactility. Both switches provide a pleasant typing experience, with the F2 switches leaning towards a lighter feel and the Taro switches offering a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Overall, whether you choose the KTT F2 linear switches or the Jwick Taro tactile switches, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with unique sound and feel characteristics. While the F2 switches offer a distinct hollow sound signature and a comfortable medium-light weightiness, the Taro switches provide a cozy typing experience with snappy tactility and crisp clacks. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT F2 linear switch or the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-light switch with a distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel, the F2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy switch with a cozy typing experience, snappy tactility, and crisp clacks, the Taro could be more suited to your liking. Both switches offer a moderate sound profile and are suitable for a variety of purposes, making them versatile options for both beginners and advanced users. Ultimately, the decision between the F2 and Taro switches will depend on your individual preferences for typing feel and sound.
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