KTT Darling vs. HMX EVA
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the HMX EVA switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a crucial role, and two popular options that cater to different typing experiences are the KTT Darling and the HMX EVA, both linear switches. The KTT Darling captivates users with its chewy and substantial typing sensation, offering a delightful sense of sinking into each keystroke. Its signature bounciness adds a responsive springiness, complemented by a high-pitched, resonant sound that enhances the tactile and auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX EVA draws inspiration from the iconic colors of Evangelion Unit-01 and offers a silky smooth feel, delivering a more refined and subtle typing experience, though it shares a resonant sound signature. Both switches provide distinct advantages: the Darling for those who enjoy a pronounced feedback and engaging sound profile, while the EVA appeals to those seeking a smoother and more seamless action. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Darling and the HMX EVA exhibit a fundamental difference in their top housing materials, which significantly influences their sound characteristics. The KTT Darling features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer composition that produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This clarity and resonance can be particularly appealing for those who enjoy a more defined auditory feedback from their keyboard. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for keyboards designed with RGB lighting, providing an aesthetic element alongside its acoustic properties. In contrast, the HMX EVA is equipped with a nylon top housing, which tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature. This property allows for greater sound absorption, resulting in a more muted auditory experience when compared to the sharper tones of the polycarbonate.
When examining the bottom housing of the KTT Darling and HMX EVA, both switches utilize nylon, making this aspect of their construction a shared characteristic. Nylon’s inherent qualities contribute to a deeper, rounder sound profile, enhancing the overall auditory experience during typing. Since both housing designs rely on nylon for the bottom, users can expect a consistent bottom-out sound that is plush and cushioned across both switches. Despite the differing top housing materials leading to contrasting experiences while releasing a key, the sharing of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switches can offer a rich foundation for the typing experience.
The interplay of the two different materials in the top housings and the shared material in the bottom housings creates a unique combination for each switch. While the KTT Darling’s polycarbonate top may lead to a crisper sound as keys are released, the deeper velvet-like quality from both switches when bottoming out remains a common trait due to the nylon. It's this specific combination that provides a nuanced experience: a clear and lively sound on key release for the Darling compared to the richer tonal depth of the EVA. Thus, even though the top housings of the switches differ significantly, their shared nylon bottom brings a certain level of cohesive auditory performance, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy various sound profiles based on how the key press and release resonate with the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Darling linear switch and the HMX EVA linear switch, we can observe notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Darling requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, positioning it as a medium-light option, while the EVA features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the EVA switch is generally more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, which can facilitate prolonged typing sessions, making it an ideal choice for work or gaming. In contrast, the Darling's slightly heavier forces might appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial feel and feedback from their keystrokes. Ultimately, while both switches offer their unique advantages, the KTT Darling is heavier overall compared to the HMX EVA, making the latter the go-to option for those seeking a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the KTT Darling linear switch and the HMX EVA linear switch, the travel distances reveal a slight difference that could influence user preference. The KTT Darling has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX EVA measures slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This indicates that the Darling offers a shorter actuating distance, which may appeal to gamers and users seeking quicker response times. On the other hand, the EVA, with its longer travel distance, could provide a more substantial feel that some users prefer, allowing for a more deliberate keypress. Therefore, if you favor responsiveness and quick actuation, the KTT Darling would be the better choice. However, if you prioritize a more satisfying depth in your keypress, the HMX EVA linear switch would be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The HMX EVA has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EVA for $2.99.
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
The KTT Darling linear switch produces a distinctive and engaging sound profile characterized by a clacky, high-pitched resonance. When bottomed out, it delivers a sharp and crisp auditory experience that many typists find satisfying, enhancing the overall satisfaction of each keystroke. This engaging sound is not only bright but also percussive, offering an immersive auditory feedback that complements the tactile sensation of typing. The sound profile of the Darling is clean and resonant, ensuring that users who appreciate a lively auditory experience will find it appealing. In contrast, the HMX EVA linear switch is noted for its resonant sound signature, but specific details on the EVA's sound characteristics remain unknown. However, it shares an acoustic quality that suggests it will provide a smooth typing experience, albeit potentially less pronounced than that of the Darling.
In terms of feel, the Darling switch excels with its bouncy and responsive tactile feedback, evoking a spring-like sensation that enhances typing speed and enjoyment. Each keystroke provides a lively rebound, making the act of typing feel dynamic and engaging. The chewy and substantial sensation of the Darling adds to the overall experience, making it well-suited for those who enjoy a more involved typing sensation. Unfortunately, the HMX EVA lacks specific descriptions regarding its tactile feel, leaving some ambiguity around its characteristics.
In summary, while the KTT Darling and HMX EVA switches share a focus on sound quality, the Darling stands out with its pronounced high-pitched, clacky sound and bouncy feel. The EVA offers a resonant sound but lacks specific details on its tactile feedback. Users seeking an engaging typing experience with a lively auditory element may gravitate towards the Darling, while the EVA may appeal to those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience, albeit with unknown tactile qualities. Both switches cater well to typists seeking a smooth linear feel, but the Darling's distinct characteristics set it apart.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the KTT Darling and the HMX EVA linear switches, consider your typing preferences and the experience you want to create. If you enjoy a richer typing sensation characterized by a chewy feel and a pronounced bounciness, the KTT Darling may be the right choice for you. Its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams offers a satisfying resistance that enhances both typing and gaming enjoyment, while its clacky and resonant sound profile provides engaging auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a more subdued auditory experience, the HMX EVA, with its lighter 48-gram force, is an excellent option. While it may not provide the same rebound and intensity as the Darling, its silky smooth feel can be appealing for prolonged typing sessions or casual gaming. Both switches have their unique qualities, so choose based on whether you prioritize a more dynamic and engaging typing experience with the Darling or a lighter, smoother motion with the EVA.
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