KTT Darling vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options stand out: the linear KTT Darling and the tactile Gateron Jupiter Brown. The Darling offers a typing experience that is both chewy and substantial, with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each key press. Its high-pitched, resonant sound upon bottoming out provides a satisfying blend of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown features a more classic keystroke feel at a medium-heavy weight, with enhanced softer backlight effects for added aesthetic appeal. While the Darling is categorized as 'bouncy', 'clacky', 'high-pitched', and 'resonant', the Jupiter Brown is described as 'mild', 'polished', and 'stepped'. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
The KTT Darling and the Gateron Jupiter Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This makes them ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as the translucency of the polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal of the lighting effects. However, the impact of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key will be more pronounced in switches with polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, both switches have nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. The qualities of the bottom housing material will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a different tactile experience compared to switches with different bottom housing materials.
Overall, while both switches share similar top and bottom housing materials, the way these materials affect the sound profile and tactile feedback of the switches may vary slightly due to the different properties of polycarbonate and nylon. Nevertheless, users can expect to experience comparable results in terms of the overall sound and feel of the switches with these housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, there are noticeable differences to consider. The Darling has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Jupiter Brown has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. Similarly, the Darling has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, compared to the Jupiter Brown's heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the Darling switch will provide a lighter typing experience, which may be preferred for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown switch offers a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Darling is shorter than the Jupiter Brown. The Darling's 3.5 mm travel distance may appeal to those looking for a quicker and more responsive typing experience, especially favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown's 4 mm travel distance may provide a more satisfying keystroke depth for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the individual's typing style and preference for travel distance.
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 Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 KTT Darling linear switch produces a sharp and crisp high-pitched sound that is resonant and engaging, providing a tactile and auditory experience. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is unknown. However, both switches are likely to deliver satisfying auditory feedback, with the Darling being more pronounced and distinct in its sound.
In terms of feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a springy and lively typing sensation that adds a bounce to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is described as mild, polished, and stepped, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience with a smooth finish and potentially a two-stage tactile feel. While the feel of these switches may differ in terms of tactile feedback, both are designed to provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Darling being more lively and the Jupiter Brown offering a polished and refined feel.
Considering the information available, the KTT Darling linear switch stands out for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, pronounced bounciness, and high-pitched resonant sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch shines with its blend of tradition and innovation, medium-heavy weight, and enhanced backlight effects. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Darling providing a more tactile and audible typing experience while the Jupiter Brown focusing on a smooth and polished feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, either switch can offer a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you enjoy a typing experience that is chewy, substantial, and bouncy, with a high-pitched and resonant sound, the Darling switch may be the perfect choice for you. However, if you prefer a more traditional tactile feel with a medium-heavy weight, along with a mild, polished, and stepped sensation, then the Jupiter Brown switch might be the better option. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired typing feel to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.
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