Bsun Cliff vs. KTT Darling
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the KTT Darling switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear can significantly alter your typing experience. The Bsun Cliff tactile switch offers a medium level of tactility paired with a crisp sound signature, making it an appealing option for users who enjoy a distinct physical feedback with each keystroke. This characteristic makes it especially popular among typists who appreciate the sensation of tactile bump as they type, providing a feeling of connection with the keyboard. On the other hand, the KTT Darling linear switch introduces an entirely different experience, characterized by its chewy and substantial typing sensation. The Darling's pronounced bounciness gives it a springy responsiveness, while the high-pitched and resonant acoustic profile adds a layer of engagement that is often sought after by gamers and fast typists alike. Choosing the right switch ultimately depends on personal preferences—whether you seek the tactile feedback of the Cliff or the smooth flow of the Darling. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Cliff and KTT Darling switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a similar auditory profile characterized by a sharp, clear, and resonant sound. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, enhances the acoustics of the switches, allowing for a higher-pitched and crisper sound. This shared material choice also has aesthetic benefits, as the clear nature of polycarbonate permits vibrant RGB lighting to shine through effectively. Given that both switches employ identical top housing materials, they demonstrate an alignment in sound quality and visual appeal, ensuring that users who appreciate transilluminated options will receive a similar experience from both models.
When considering their bottom housings, the Bsun Cliff and KTT Darling switches both utilize nylon, which leads to their distinctively different sound profiles compared to the top housings. Nylon's properties as a softer plastic contribute to a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing more vibrations and dampening higher frequencies. This choice results in a richer auditory experience when typing, creating a pleasing contrast with the sharper sound emanating from the polycarbonate tops. While both switches share material characteristics at the top, the nylon bottom housing elevates the overall acoustic experience, enriching the interplay between the two materials in producing unique sound qualities.
The combination of polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms in both the Bsun Cliff and KTT Darling switches highlights how different housing materials influence the type of feedback and sound produced during use. While the top housing governs the sound perception upon key release, the bottom housing influences the sound and feel at the point of actuation. This synergy between the two differing materials results in a well-rounded typing experience that capitalizes on the strengths of both polycarbonate and nylon. Thus, despite the sound clarity and aesthetics shared by both models due to their top housing material, the nylon bottom housing bestows a unique depth and richness that differentiates their overall playability, creating an enjoyable experience tailored to users’ preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the KTT Darling linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cliff features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a softer typing experience that can be beneficial for extended use, such as during long work hours or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Darling has a medium-light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a slightly firmer feel. This makes the Darling a better choice for users who enjoy a more substantial push during typing. As a result, the Cliff is the lighter switch option overall, while the Darling offers a heavier feedback. The differences in both actuation and bottom out forces indicate that users will experience varied levels of resistance with each switch, which can significantly impact typing comfort and preference.
Travel distance
The Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the KTT Darling linear switch exhibit distinct travel distances, with the Cliff measuring 3.6 mm and the Darling 3.5 mm. This makes the Darling the shorter option, albeit only marginally so. In terms of tactile feedback during use, users may find the experience quite similar given their close measurements; both switches fall within a range that caters to a preference for shorter travel distances, which is becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking quicker response times. However, for those who appreciate a bit more depth and a potentially more satisfying keystroke, the Bsun Cliff's slightly longer travel distance might be preferable. Overall, while both switches provide a responsive experience, the Cliff offers a more substantial feel compared to the Darling.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch produces a crisp auditory signature that is well-articulated, making each keystroke resonate clearly without muddiness. This characteristic lends a certain freshness to every press, contributing to an engaging typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Darling linear switch offers a clacky and resonant sound profile, which is more pronounced and high-pitched when the key bottoms out. While the Darling delivers a vibrant and percussive sound that many enjoy, it creates a lighter tone compared to the Cliff's crispness. Keep in mind that sound can also be influenced significantly by the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used, meaning both switches can produce different auditory results depending on these factors.
Regarding feel, the Bsun Cliff is known for a medium tactile feedback that provides a satisfying bump on actuation, though specific descriptors for its feel are less detailed. In contrast, the KTT Darling presents a chewy and substantial typing experience, embodying a unique sensation akin to sinking one's fingers into soft materials. Its pronounced bounciness adds an exciting elasticity to each keypress, creating a lively interaction as the keys respond with enthusiasm. Given these distinctions, the Cliff offers a more traditional tactile feedback, while the Darling appeals to those who prefer a smoother, springier sensation.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the KTT Darling linear switch have their unique attributes that cater to different preferences. The Cliff provides a clear, crisp auditory feedback along with notable tactile engagement, making it ideal for users who enjoy a defined typist experience. Conversely, the Darling offers a lively and resonant sound alongside a bouncy, satisfying feel that might favor those who prioritize a smooth and engaging keystroke. Depending on your key-press preferences, you can select between a tactile and springy experience or opt for a more straightforward, satisfying feedback while typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the KTT Darling linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing habits. If you enjoy a lighter touch and appreciate tactile feedback while typing, the Cliff is a great option, especially if you favor a medium level of tactility and a crisp sound. Its lower actuation force of 45 grams makes it accessible for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue, and the tactile response can enhance your typing experience. On the other hand, if you find pleasure in the smooth, buttery feel of a linear switch and prefer a more substantial bottom-out force, the Darling is an excellent choice. With its medium-light feel of 53 grams, it provides a satisfying, bouncy feedback that keeps typing engaging. The clacky and resonant sound profile ensures that each keystroke feels lively, making it an inviting option for those who prefer an auditory experience alongside their tactile sensations. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you value tactile feedback or prioritize the smooth, satisfying feel of a linear switch.
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