KTT Darling vs. Jerrzi Orange
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Jerrzi Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Darling and Jerrzi Orange mechanical keyboard switches, both linear options offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Darling is praised for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, coupled with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. In contrast, the Jerrzi Orange switches are known for their lightweight feel, delivering a crisp and audible feedback that makes typing lively and vibrant. While the Darling offers a blend of tactile and auditory feedback with its high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, the Orange provides a more subdued and clacky typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles; 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
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Jerrzi Orange, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This shared material choice results in a similar sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for RGB lighting to be more effectively utilized due to its translucency. This similarity in material suggests that users can expect consistent performance and aesthetics in terms of sound and visual appeal when using either switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Darling features a nylon bottom housing, while the Orange also incorporates nylon in its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other housing materials. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. With both switches using nylon for their bottom housing, users can expect a consistent typing experience with a focus on a more muted and rounded sound compared to switches with different bottom housing materials.
The choice of housing materials for the KTT Darling and the Jerrzi Orange highlights how the characteristics of different materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound profile, the use of nylon in the bottom housing provides a consistent typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in the two switches allows for a well-rounded typing experience, catering to users who prioritize both sound and feel in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The KTT Darling linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, which has an actuation force of 37 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Darling is 53 grams, while the Orange's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Darling switch slightly heavier overall compared to the Orange switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Jerrzi Orange switch may be more suitable, as it requires less force to actuate. On the other hand, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the KTT Darling switch may be the better choice due to its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Darling has a shorter travel distance compared to the Orange. The Darling's 3.5 mm travel distance may appeal to those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Orange's 3.7 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth and may feel less abrupt to some users. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, but the slight difference in distance may make a noticeable impact based on individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a shorter, quicker press or a slightly longer, more deliberate key press.
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 Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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, resonant sound that is sharp and crisp, providing an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange linear switch produces a clacky sound that is bright and percussive, adding a lively and responsive element to typing. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, those who prefer a more vibrant and sharp sound may lean towards the Darling, while those who enjoy a crisper and clacky sound may prefer the Orange.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like sensation with each keystroke that provides a lively and rebounding feel. In contrast, the Jerrzi Orange linear switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal exertion and offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Depending on personal preferences for typing feel, individuals may choose the Darling for its bouncy feedback or the Orange for its effortless and comfortable typing experience.
Overall, the KTT Darling and Jerrzi Orange linear switches offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel, catering to different preferences in typing feedback. While the Darling provides a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a resonant sound, the Orange offers a clacky and responsive feel with a lively sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and the overall typing experience desired.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a bouncy and resonant sound profile, then the Darling switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight and clacky typing experience with a feathery feel that reduces finger fatigue, then the Orange switch might better suit your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a tactile and auditory feedback with the Darling switch or a responsive and vibrant typing experience with the Orange switch. Consider your typing preferences and needs to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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