KTT F2 vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT F2 and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. The F2 switch stands out with its distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel, providing a comfortable and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile along with pronounced tactility, striking a perfect balance between feedback and comfort. While the F2 is best known for its subtlety and neutral feel, the Viola Tricolor is praised for its invigorating tactile feedback. 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
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT F2 and the Haimu Viola Tricolor both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal option for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, the difference lies in their bottom housing material. The KTT F2 with its polycarbonate bottom housing continues to emphasize the sharp, higher-pitched sound qualities associated with this material. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor's nylon bottom housing contributes to a more muted and fuller sound experience. The split between the top and bottom housings allows each material to have a distinct impact on the sound and feel of typing on these switches. When pressing down on a key, the bottom housing's characteristics are more pronounced, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound upon key release.
Overall, the choice between the KTT F2 and the Haimu Viola Tricolor comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The KTT F2 offers a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top and bottom housing, ideal for those seeking a more defined typing experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor's mix of polycarbonate and nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, giving typists a more rounded and mellow typing experience. Both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound profile and feel of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The KTT F2 linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch have contrasting actuation and bottom out forces. The F2 has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light. In comparison, the Viola Tricolor has an unknown actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the F2 for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Viola Tricolor. The differences in actuation and bottom out forces provide users with options to choose based on their individual preferences for typing feel and feedback.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Viola Tricolor has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the F2. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The difference of 0.3 mm may not be significant for most users, but those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may lean towards the Viola Tricolor, while those who prefer a shorter and more responsive press may opt for the KTT F2. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, so users can expect comparable results from either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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
Overall, both the KTT F2 linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. The F2 provides a neutral sound profile with a subdued quality, along with a feathery and mild feel that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor delivers a bassy and low-pitched sound experience with accented tactility that strikes the right balance between feedback and comfort. While the F2 may appeal to those seeking a more moderate typing experience, the Viola Tricolor is suited for users who enjoy a bit of character and sharpness in their switches. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance, and the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style. With either switch, users can expect a satisfying typing experience that meets their individual needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a medium-light switch with a distinct hollow sound and lightly textured feel, the F2 may be the choice for you. It offers a comfortable typing experience without being too forceful. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy switch with a thuddy and punchy sound profile, along with pronounced tactility that strikes a perfect balance, the Viola Tricolor could be the better option. It provides satisfying feedback without being overly tactile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a neutral and feathery typing experience (F2) or a bassy and accented tactile sensation (Viola Tricolor). Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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