KTT Darling vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between two popular linear switches, the KTT Darling and the Gateron Jupiter Red both offer unique experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Darling is celebrated for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, coupled with a bouncy and responsive keystroke that delights users with each press. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red provides a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, showcasing high-precision molds and softer backlight effects for a polished typing experience. While the Darling offers a more clacky and high-pitched sound, the Jupiter Red maintains a creamy and silky feel with a neutral tone. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences and priorities. 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
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 housing materials of the KTT Darling and Gateron Jupiter Red are quite similar, both featuring polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it perfect for switches that prioritize clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In terms of aesthetics, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency, while nylon offers a more classic housing material for a timeless look.
While both the Darling and Jupiter Red switches share the same housing materials, the way these materials are utilized can lead to slight differences in sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper sound profile, but the polycarbonate top housing of the Darling may produce a slightly sharper sound compared to the Jupiter Red. Additionally, the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches offer a balance of qualities from their housing materials, providing users with a satisfying typing experience.
Despite the slight differences in sound profile, the overall performance of the KTT Darling and Gateron Jupiter Red switches should be quite similar due to their shared housing materials. Both switches offer a combination of sharpness and depth in sound, thanks to the polycarbonate and nylon materials used. Whether you prefer a slightly crisper sound from the polycarbonate top housing of the Darling or a rounder sound from the nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Red, both switches are designed to deliver a high-quality typing experience with their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Darling has a lower bottom out force of 53 grams compared to the Jupiter Red's 60 grams, making it slightly lighter in overall feel. However, both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of initial key press. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Darling may be the better choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a bit more resistance when typing may find the Jupiter Red to be more to their liking. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Darling has a shorter travel distance compared to the Jupiter Red. The Darling's 3.5 mm travel distance makes it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize faster response times due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red's 4 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth when pressing down on a key, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Despite the difference in travel distance, both switches offer smooth and linear keystrokes, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Darling and Jupiter Red will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Red 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 comparing the sound qualities of the KTT Darling linear switch to the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it is evident that they offer different auditory experiences. The Darling switch is described as producing a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound, creating a tactile and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red switch is noted for its neutral sound profile, offering a moderate and consistent sound output. Depending on personal preference, the Darling switch may be more appealing to those who enjoy a sharper and more lively sound, while the Jupiter Red switch provides a versatile option suitable for various settings.
In terms of feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is highlighted for its bouncy feedback, giving users a springy and responsive typing sensation. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a polished, creamy, silky, and mild feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced key travel. Individuals who prefer a more lively and elastic feedback may lean towards the Darling switch, whereas those who value a sleek and buttery typing experience may prefer the Jupiter Red switch for its polished and creamy qualities.
Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch each have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Darling switch offers a clacky and bouncy typing sensation with high-pitched and resonant sound profiles, the Jupiter Red switch provides a neutral sound experience coupled with a polished, creamy, silky, and mild feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feedback, and typing experience. It is important to consider these subjective qualities to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Darling linear switch or the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, you should take into account your preference for typing sensation and sound. If you enjoy a chewy and substantial typing experience with bouncy feedback and high-pitched sound, the KTT Darling would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, consistent keystroke with medium-heavy actuation and a neutral sound profile, the Gateron Jupiter Red would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound characteristics.
Mentioned in this article
