KTT Darling vs. TTC Gold Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the TTC Gold Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Darling and TTC Gold Silver both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Darling, a linear switch, is known for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, accompanied by a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each key press. On the other hand, the Gold Silver, also a linear switch, boasts rapid responsiveness with a shortened travel distance that results in a decisive and solid bottom-out. While the Darling provides a high-pitched and resonant typing experience, the Gold Silver offers a low-pitched and polished sound signature. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience; 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Darling and TTC Gold Silver both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches featuring RGB lighting. However, despite these similarities, the KTT Darling and TTC Gold Silver have different nylon bottom housings. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of sound profile, the use of polycarbonate top housings in both the KTT Darling and TTC Gold Silver will yield similar results, as polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound. However, the difference lies in the bottom housing material. The KTT Darling's nylon bottom housing will provide a different sound experience compared to the TTC Gold Silver's nylon bottom housing. While both nylon bottom housings elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the material, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel may vary between the two switches.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the KTT Darling and TTC Gold Silver offers a unique sound experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound for a deeper and fuller sound profile. This combination allows for a well-rounded sound experience that caters to different preferences in mechanical keyboard sound profiles.
Weight
The KTT Darling linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch both have a similar actuation force of 45 grams, making them light switches in terms of force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, the KTT Darling has a bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a slightly heavier feel when fully pressed compared to the unknown bottom out force of the TTC Gold Silver switch. In terms of weight, the KTT Darling is slightly lighter overall compared to the TTC Gold Silver. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the KTT Darling may be the better option. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial feel and prefer a heavier typing experience, the TTC Gold Silver might be the preferred choice, despite the unknown bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Darling linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience a similar amount of distance traveled by the switch. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both the KTT Darling and TTC Gold Silver linear switches offer the same level of key press feel. Overall, both switches provide consistent and predictable tactile feedback due to their identical travel distances.
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 TTC Gold Silver has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Silver for $2.90.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Darling linear switch is characterized by its high-pitched and resonant sound profile, creating a sharp and engaging auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch is known for producing a thocky and low-pitched sound, offering a deep and satisfying tone with each keystroke. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Darling providing a brighter and more crisp sound while the Gold Silver offers a richer and more mellow tone.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling switch is praised for its bouncy sensation, providing a springy and lively feedback with each key press. In contrast, the TTC Gold Silver switch is noted for its polished and silky feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced key travel. Additionally, the Gold Silver switch is described as mild and subtle, providing a gentle and approachable typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Darling emphasizing bounce and liveliness while the Gold Silver focuses on smoothness and refinement.
Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Darling excels in providing a high-pitched and resonant sound with a bouncy typing sensation, creating an engaging and tactile experience. On the other hand, the Gold Silver showcases a thocky and low-pitched sound with a polished and silky feel, emphasizing smoothness and refinement in every keystroke. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring a satisfying and customized experience for each user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you enjoy a tactile and auditory typing experience with a chewy yet springy feel, along with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, the KTT Darling may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize rapid responsiveness, a decisive bottom-out, smooth keystrokes, and a thocky sound profile, the TTC Gold Silver could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by your desired typing sensation and sound preference. So, whether you lean towards the chewy bounciness of the Darling or the swift precision of the Gold Silver, both switches offer unique qualities to enhance your typing experience.
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