KTT F2 vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT F2 and the Durock White Lotus are two popular options that cater to different preferences. The KTT F2, a linear switch, stands out for its distinct hollow sound signature and medium-light weightiness, providing a comfortable typing experience with a lightly textured feel for added tactile nuance. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus, a tactile switch, offers a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance for extended typing sessions, along with the added bonus of removable light columns for vibrant RGB lighting effects. While the F2 is characterized by its feathery and subtle qualities, the White Lotus is known for being easy-to-press and neutral. Both switches have their unique strengths, but diving deeper into their specifics will help you determine which is the best fit for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT F2 to the Durock White Lotus, it is clear that both switches have unique qualities that contribute to their sound profiles. The F2 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This is ideal for those looking for a more high-pitched sound with clear resonance. On the other hand, the White Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend top housing, providing a premium feel and potentially a different sound profile compared to the F2.
Moving on to the bottom housing comparison, the KTT F2 continues to use polycarbonate, offering a similar sharp, higher-pitched sound profile as seen in its top housing. This consistency in material choice throughout the housing of the F2 ensures a coherent sound profile. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus opts for a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This creates a more muted and rounder sound compared to the F2's polycarbonate bottom housing.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch plays a significant role in shaping its sound profile. While both the KTT F2 and Durock White Lotus offer unique characteristics with their housing materials, they cater to different preferences in sound. The F2's polycarbonate housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, whereas the White Lotus's blend of PC and UPE in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing offers a premium feel with a deeper and fuller sound. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it can be seen that the F2 has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the White Lotus's 46 grams. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the F2 requiring 53 grams and the White Lotus needing 56 grams. This makes both switches fall into the category of medium-light switches. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the F2, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may lean towards the White Lotus. In terms of longevity and comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions, the lighter actuation force of the F2 may be preferable, while the heavier force of the White Lotus provides a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, making it a shorter travel distance compared to the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4mm. The difference may not seem significant, but it can have an impact on the typing experience. Gamers might prefer the F2 switch for its slightly faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more distinct key press might opt for the White Lotus switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, and choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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 offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, providing a moderate yet dampened typing experience suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch presents a low-pitched and neutral sound, which is bass-heavy and mellow, offering a calming auditory experience. Both switches provide a pleasant sound signature depending on your preference and the surrounding environment.
When it comes to feel, the KTT F2 switch is described as feathery, mild, and subtle, offering a light and gentle typing experience perfect for extended use without causing finger fatigue. Similarly, the Durock White Lotus switch provides an easy-to-press, mild, and subtle feel, enhancing the typing experience by requiring minimal force for key activation. Both switches deliver a comfortable typing feel that is suitable for various typing preferences and usage.
Overall, the KTT F2 linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offer distinct qualities in sound and feel that cater to different preferences. While the F2 provides a lightly textured feel and a neutral subdued sound, the White Lotus offers delicate tactility and low-pitched sound with vibrant RGB lighting effects. Choosing between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a more textured feel and neutral sound or a delicate tactility and low-pitched sound combined with RGB illumination. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts looking for specific qualities in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT F2 linear switch or the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a distinct hollow sound signature with a lightly textured feel and a medium-light bottom out force, the F2 switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a delicate tactility with a perfect balance of feel and sound, along with the option for vibrant RGB lighting effects, the White Lotus switch could be the ideal choice. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so it's important to consider what aspects are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, your typing experience and satisfaction with your keyboard setup will greatly depend on choosing the switch that best aligns with your preferences.
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