KTT F2 vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT F2, a linear switch, and the Jerrzi Violet, a tactile switch, stand out for their unique characteristics. The F2 switches are praised for their distinct hollow sound signature, providing an auditory experience like no other. With a medium-light weight and lightly textured feel, typing on the F2s is comfortable and nuanced. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switches offer a smooth actuation and poppy tactility, creating a balanced and enjoyable typing experience with a neutral sound signature. While the F2s are categorized as feather, mild, neutral, subdued, subtle and the Violets as stepped, neutral, both switches have their own appeal. 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
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Jerrzi Violet both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer plastic. This makes them ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective light transmission. However, the main difference lies in the bottom housing material - the F2 utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, while the Violet incorporates nylon. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for the Violet, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate of the F2.
In terms of typing experience, the choice of bottom housing material plays a significant role. The F2's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Violet's nylon bottom housing creates a softer and more absorbent typing experience, enhancing the overall sound when typing due to its ability to dampen sound more effectively. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housing, the difference in bottom housing material leads to distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
Overall, while both the KTT F2 and the Jerrzi Violet feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound profile, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound and feel. The F2 leans towards a clearer and resonant typing experience with its polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Violet offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and sound characteristics, as each housing material brings its own unique qualities to the overall switch performance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, we find that the F2 has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Violet's 45 grams. However, the F2 has a heavier bottom out force of 53 grams, whereas the Violet's bottom out force is unknown. The F2 offers a medium-light typing experience, while the Violet's force remains a mystery. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the F2 may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Violet, assuming it provides a heavier force. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience and overall satisfaction with a keyboard switch.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Violet switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the F2 switch. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for quicker response times. Choosing between the two would ultimately depend on personal preference - if you prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial key press, the Violet switch would be the better choice. However, if you prioritize faster response times and a more immediate feel, the F2 switch with its slightly shorter travel distance would be the preferred option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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
When it comes to sound, both the KTT F2 linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes without being too loud or too quiet. The F2 offers a more subdued sound, providing a dampened sound when pressed, while the Violet switch provides a more balanced and pleasant typing experience in terms of sound. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the KTT F2 linear switch offers a feathery and mild typing experience, making it comfortable for long typing sessions with reduced finger fatigue. The lightly textured feel of each keystroke adds a tactile nuance, enhancing the typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch provides a stepped feel, offering a two-stage tactility with a smooth actuation curve. This unique feel allows for a more controlled typing experience that may cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, both the KTT F2 linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch provide distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. While the F2 excels in offering a lightly textured feel and a subdued sound profile, the Violet stands out with a poppy tactility and a balanced sound signature. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch, you can achieve similar results in terms of typing experience with either of these switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to individual preference and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you enjoy a unique hollow sound signature and a medium-light typing experience with a lightly textured feel, then the F2 switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth actuation with a pleasingly poppy tactility and a balanced typing experience, the Violet switch could be more suitable. Both switches offer neutral sound profiles, but the F2 provides a subdued sound while the Violet switch offers a stepped tactile experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your desired typing feel and sound as you consider the F2 for a comfortable and lightly textured typing experience and the Violet for its smooth actuation and poppy tactility.
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