KTT Darling vs. Gateron Ink Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Gateron Ink Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Darling and the Gateron Ink Red mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that they both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The KTT Darling, a linear switch, stands out for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, accompanied by a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red, also a linear switch, is distinguished by its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. The Ink Reds are noted for their smoothness, crispy clacky sound profile, and effortless typing experience. While the Darling provides a blend of tactile and auditory feedback with its high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, the Ink Red offers a more polished and silky 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Gateron Ink Red, it is evident that both switches prioritize sound quality in their design. The Darling utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. In contrast, the Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound without being overly sharp. While the Darling's polycarbonate top housing is transparent and ideal for RGB lighting, the Ink Red's INK blend top housing provides a satisfying clacky sound.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Darling incorporates a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Ink Red's proprietary INK blend bottom housing also offers a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, contributing to the overall clacky sound of the switch. Both switches prioritize creating a unique sound experience for users, with the Darling focusing on a rounder sound with its nylon bottom housing and the Ink Red delivering a thinner, higher-pitched sound with its proprietary blend material.
Overall, while the housing materials of the KTT Darling and Gateron Ink Red differ, they both aim to enhance the auditory experience for users. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings of each switch ensure a balanced sound profile for both pressing down and letting go of a key. Whether it be the sharper, higher-pitched sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the Darling or the satisfying clacky sound from the INK blend in the Ink Red, users can expect a unique and premium sound experience from both switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, we can see that both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Darling has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams compared to the Ink Red's heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that while the actuation force is the same for both switches, the Darling will provide a lighter typing experience overall compared to the Ink Red. The Darling switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Ink Red switch would be better for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a medium actuation force, but the bottom out force sets them apart in terms of the overall typing experience they provide.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Ink Red linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Darling's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Ink Red's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying level of key press depth for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press feel and responsiveness. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, so users can expect distinct results when using each.
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 Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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 offers a high-pitched and resonant typing experience with a clacky sound profile, providing a satisfyingly tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile with a chirpy characteristic, offering a smooth and crispy sound when typing. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the Darling leaning towards a more pronounced and engaging sound, while the Ink Red offers a more subtle and versatile sound suitable for various environments. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for sound profile.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Darling linear switch is praised for its bouncy sensation, providing a springy and lively feel with each keystroke, adding a level of responsiveness and rebound. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with a mild and polished feel. The Darling switch emphasizes a more dynamic and lively typing experience, while the Ink Red switch focuses on a smooth and refined feel that minimizes resistance and enhances key travel. Choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a more tactile and bouncy feel or a smoother and gentle typing experience.
Taking into consideration all the available information, the KTT Darling and Gateron Ink Red linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Darling switch excels in providing a satisfyingly tactile and high-pitched sound with a bouncy and substantial feel, while the Ink Red switch offers a smooth and crispy sound with a silky and polished typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, so choosing between the two will ultimately depend on individual typing style and desired sensory experience. While the switches offer unique characteristics, users can expect a similar level of quality and performance in terms of their linear switch functionality.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, consider your preferences for typing sensation, sound profile, and typing style. If you enjoy a chewy and substantial typing experience with bouncy feedback and a high-pitched, resonant sound, the Darling may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a crispy and clacky sound profile and a lower actuation force, the Ink Red could be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable to you as you type.
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