KTT F2 vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, keyboard enthusiasts often find themselves comparing options that cater to different preferences and styles. The KTT F2 switches offer a unique auditory experience with their distinct hollow sound signature, complemented by a medium-light weight that provides a comfortable typing feel, balancing between force and delicacy. With a lightly textured surface, the F2s deliver a mildly tactile sensation, perfect for users who enjoy a nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch is designed with gamers in mind, sporting an exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm, allowing for incredibly rapid keystrokes—ideal for fast-paced gaming environments. The Vintage Citrus also features a bright, clacky sound profile and a remarkably smooth push feel, appealing to users who prioritize speed and responsiveness. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct advantages, making the choice often hinge on individual typing or gaming 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
48g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT F2 and HMX Vintage Citrus switched demonstrate contrasting characteristics primarily due to their differing housing materials. The KTT F2 utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a sound profile that is sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper. This quality arises from polycarbonate's stiffness, which facilitates clearer resonance in the sound when a key is pressed or released. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly advantageous for RGB lighting setups, allowing the light to shine through and enhance the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. Users of the F2 can expect a bright and vibrant auditory and visual experience when these switches are activated.
In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus features nylon for both its top and bottom housings. Nylon's inherently softer disposition results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that absorbs more sound waves compared to polycarbonate. This creates a more muted auditory experience characterized by a duller and rounder sound when typing, making these switches ideal for users who prefer a softer acoustic response. Furthermore, the traditional appeal of nylon in switch housing is valued by many KEYboard enthusiasts who appreciate the specific tactile feedback offered by this material. However, the nylon housing may not be as visually striking under RGB lighting as the polycarbonate housing of the F2.
When comparing these two switches, it is essential to recognize how the distinct materials influence the overall typing experience. With the KTT F2's polycarbonate design, users will notice a clear division between the pronounced auditory feedback from the top housing and the impact-focused response from the bottom housing. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus will deliver a more evenly distributed sound, blending the characteristics of both the top and bottom nylon housings for an overall softer typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches utilize different materials to achieve their sound profiles, the fundamental impact of either design on the user's experience sets them apart significantly. If one is hoping to achieve similar results in terms of auditory clarity with the HMX Vintage Citrus, incorporating different sound-dampening features or pairing these switches with specific keycap materials may help bridge the gap in performance.
Weight
The KTT F2 linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation forces while sharing the same bottom out force. The F2 switch has an actuation force of 43 grams, which makes it lighter and potentially more suitable for users who prefer extended typing sessions or those who favor a softer feel in their keystrokes. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus requires a slightly stronger actuation force of 48 grams, catering to users who appreciate a more pronounced push with each keystroke. Both switches, however, share an identical bottom out force of 53 grams, suggesting that once pressed fully down, they experience the same resistance. Therefore, while both options are medium-light overall, the F2 is the lighter choice regarding actuation force, ideal for those prioritizing comfort and prolonged use, while the Vintage Citrus provides a firmer touch for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT F2 linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, a clear difference emerges. The KTT F2 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Vintage Citrus has a travel distance of 3 mm. This makes the Vintage Citrus the shorter switch, which aligns with the trend of shorter travel distances favored by gamers for enhanced responsiveness. On the other hand, the KTT F2 provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a more tactile and substantial feel when pressing down on keys. Thus, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences: if you prioritize a quick response time, the Vintage Citrus may be the better option, while the F2 offers a deeper feel for those who appreciate more travel in their keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Vintage Citrus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vintage Citrus for $2.79.
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 possesses a distinctive hollow sound signature that adds a unique auditory charm, making it stand out from more conventional switches. It offers a subdued sound profile that is not overly loud, making it suitable for both home and office use without being disruptive. Its tonal quality is neutral, striking a balance that appeals to most users from beginners to pros. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch is tailored for gamers and delivers a bright, clacky sound profile. This exuberant auditory characteristic enhances the sensory experience during intense gaming sessions, although detailing beyond this specific focus on rapid actuation is unknown. However, keep in mind that the overall sound will also depend on the keyboard and keycap choices used with each switch.
When considering the feel of each switch, the KTT F2 linear switch has a medium-light actuation force that ensures a comfortable experience, reducing finger fatigue while typing. This contributes to an approachable typing experience characterized as feathery and mild, perfect for long sessions whether you're gaming, studying, or working. Its lightly textured feel adds subtle tactile feedback, enhancing the overall engagement with each keystroke. The Vintage Citrus, designed with a focus on speed for gamers, features an exceptionally low actuation force and is described as being remarkably smooth to push. While specifics about its tactile characteristics are not provided, it is evident that the overall design prioritizes fast inputs and responsiveness, catering to those who need to execute commands swiftly.
In conclusion, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user needs. The KTT F2 linear switch combines a distinctive sound and a comforting feel, making it versatile for various typing scenarios, while the HMX Vintage Citrus focuses on speed and auditory excitement tailored specifically for gamers. Depending on what you're after—be it a balanced sound and feel or a quick, responsive gaming experience—you can expect to find satisfaction in either option. Ultimately, each will provide a satisfying typing experience, allowing users to select based on personal preferences in sound, feel, and intended use.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the KTT F2 linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch will depend largely on your specific needs and typing habits. If you're looking for a versatile switch that strikes a balance between sound and feel, the KTT F2 would be a great choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force combined with a subdued sound signature makes it suitable for both work and play, ensuring a comfortable typing experience even during long sessions. The lightly textured feel of the F2 adds a tactile element that many users find pleasing, making it a solid option for those who appreciate a little feedback in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you are a gamer who values speed and responsiveness, the Vintage Citrus switch may be the better fit. With its low actuation force and quick response time, it's designed for rapid-fire usage, promising to keep up with intense gaming sessions. Moreover, the bright, clacky sound profile and smooth push feel offer an engaging auditory experience that can enhance your gameplay. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize a more subdued, all-purpose typing feel (F2) or a fast, competitive edge in gaming (Vintage Citrus).
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