KTT F2 vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT F2 and Durock Lupine are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The F2 switches stand out for their distinct hollow sound signature, providing an auditory experience like no other. With medium-light weightiness and a lightly textured feel, typing on the F2s is comfortable and tactile. On the other hand, the Lupine switches boast two-stage long springs, offering consistent weight distribution on pressing down and a powerful upward movement on rebound. They also produce a classic clacky sound profile, adding a nostalgic touch to typing. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals, making them suitable for various 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Durock Lupine, both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings which create a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches with RGB lighting. While both keyboards share this top housing material, the difference lies in the bottom housing material. The F2 utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, continuing the trend of sharp and clear sound profiles throughout the entire switch. In contrast, the Lupine features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature which absorbs more sound.
The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch leads to different tactile experiences when typing on the KTT F2 and the Durock Lupine. The F2, with its polycarbonate bottom housing, will offer a more resonant and clear bottom-out sound and feel, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Lupine's nylon bottom housing will provide a softer and fuller sound upon bottoming out, potentially creating a more muted typing feel. When it comes to the release sound of the keys, the top housing material plays a crucial role. Both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in the top housing, creating a sharp and crisp sound when keys are released.
Overall, while the KTT F2 and the Durock Lupine share similar polycarbonate top housings, their differences lie in the bottom housing material and the resulting sound profiles. The F2 offers a consistent sharp and clear typing experience with polycarbonate top and bottom housings, while the Lupine introduces a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing. Depending on personal preference for sound profiles and typing feel, users may prefer one over the other based on these distinct characteristics. Ultimately, both keyboards showcase the impact that different housing materials can have on the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, it is evident that the F2 is the lighter option with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Lupine is the heavier option with a bottom out force of 62 grams. The actuation force of the Lupine is unknown. Both switches provide a medium feel, with the F2 leaning towards the lighter side and the Lupine towards the heavier side. Those looking for a more prolonged typing experience may prefer the lighter actuation force of the F2, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Lupine. In either case, both switches offer a medium typing experience suitable for various preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. While the Lupine has a slightly longer travel distance, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their faster response times. Choosing between the two would come down to personal preference, with the F2 offering a slightly shorter travel distance for those seeking quick and snappy key presses, and the Lupine providing a bit more depth for a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, both switches would provide a similar typing experience, with the F2 being slightly shorter and the Lupine being slightly longer in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, both switches fall under the category of neutral sound profiles. The F2 switch offers a more subdued sound when pressed, while the Lupine switch produces a high-pitched clacky sound profile. The difference in sound can contribute to varying auditory experiences depending on personal preference, with the F2 offering a more mellow tone and the Lupine providing a sharper sound. Keep in mind that sound experience can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT F2 linear switch is described as having a feathery and subtle typing feel, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish resulting in comfortable key travel. Both switches fall under the category of mild feel, catering to users who prefer a gentle typing experience without extreme characteristics. The slight difference in tactile nuances can affect the overall typing comfort and feedback received by the user.
In conclusion, while the KTT F2 linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch share similarities in their neutral sound profiles and mild typing feels, they offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences. The F2 switch stands out with its subdued sound and feathery feel, providing a comfortable and lightly textured typing experience. On the other hand, the Lupine switch offers a high-pitched clacky sound and a polished typing feel with smooth key travel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can cater to a wide range of users, offering reliable performance and comfort in different ways. Ultimately, when choosing between the two switches, consider your personal preferences for sound and feel to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a distinct hollow sound signature and a medium-light weightiness for a comfortable typing experience, the KTT F2 linear switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer linear switches with a two-stage long spring design that provides a consistent weight distribution and a more powerful rebound, along with a classic clacky sound profile, then the Durock Lupine linear switch is the one for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound and feel you prefer, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
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