KTT F2 vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the KTT F2 and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro mechanical keyboard switches, one can see a clear distinction in their design and performance. The F2 stands out for its hollow sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience. With a medium-light weight and lightly textured feel, the F2 offers a comfortable typing experience with a subtle tactile nuance. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switch boasts a medium tactility and a neutral sound signature, making it a well-balanced option for those seeking a tactile typing experience without too much force. 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
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro keyboards both make use of polycarbonate for the top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for RGB lighting effects, making it a popular choice for the top housing of switches. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the F2 utilizes polycarbonate, while the Violet Gold Pro uses nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. This difference in bottom housing material will impact the overall sound and feel of the switches.
While both the KTT F2 and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro keyboards share the same polycarbonate top housing, the use of different materials for the bottom housing sets them apart. The F2's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the sharp, crisp sound profile characteristic of polycarbonate, while the Violet Gold Pro's nylon bottom housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials results in distinct typing experiences for each keyboard. The impact of the housing material on the sound and feel of the switches is evident during both key presses and key releases, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro keyboards play a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound, the different bottom housing materials - polycarbonate for the F2 and nylon for the Violet Gold Pro - result in varying sound profiles. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the F2 creates a clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon in the Violet Gold Pro produces a deeper and fuller sound. These differences highlight the importance of housing materials in influencing the overall typing experience and sound quality of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the F2 requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. With an actuation force of 43 grams, it is lighter than the Violet Gold Pro, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the F2 is heavier, requiring 53 grams compared to the unknown bottom out force of the Violet Gold Pro. The F2 provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Violet Gold Pro's tactile feedback may offer a different typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with some preferring the lighter actuation force of the F2 for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Violet Gold Pro for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Violet Gold Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the F2. Shorter travel distances are often favored by gamers for quicker response times, making the F2 a popular choice in that regard. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Violet Gold Pro may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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 and Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches have a neutral profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The F2 switches offer a slightly subdued sound, giving a more muted typing experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switches provide a neutral sound signature, making them a versatile choice for various scenarios. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the F2 switches provide a feathery and mild typing experience, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. The lightly textured feel of the F2 switches adds a tactile nuance to each keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches offer a stepped tactile feel, giving users a sense of two-stage feedback during the keystroke. This mild tactility ensures a comfortable and balanced typing experience suitable for a variety of tasks.
Overall, both the KTT F2 linear switches and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switches excel in providing users with a pleasant typing experience. While the F2 switches stand out with their distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel, the Violet Gold Pro switches offer a balanced tactile feedback that is ideal for those seeking a medium tactility. Whether you choose the F2 switches for a unique auditory experience or the Violet Gold Pro switches for a versatile typing feel, both options are sure to deliver satisfying results for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you value a distinct hollow sound signature, lightly textured keypresses with a medium-light bottom out force, and a subdued sound profile, the F2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium tactility with a fairly light touch, a balanced typing experience with a stepped tactile feel, and a neutral sound signature, the Violet Gold Pro could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing comfort.
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