KTT Darling vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the HMX KD200 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Darling and HMX KD200 stand out as two compelling options for linear switch enthusiasts, each offering unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience. The KTT Darling is celebrated for its chewy and substantial feel, providing a satisfying depth with each keystroke that many users find delightful. Its pronounced bounciness adds an extra layer of responsiveness, making it a great choice for typists who appreciate an energetic and engaging tactile experience. In terms of sound, the Darling delivers a resonant, high-pitched clack, appealing to those who enjoy auditory feedback as they type. On the other hand, the HMX KD200 distinguishes itself within the HMX Film switch family as the clackiest option available, offering a highly pronounced and crisp sound that enhances the overall typing experience. While both switches are designed to deliver a smooth linear feel, the choice between the two may boil down to personal preferences surrounding feel and acoustics. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the HMX KD200, a notable contrast arises in the choice of materials used for the top housing. The KTT Darling employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This resonant quality can be attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, facilitating a clearer response, especially beneficial for setups that incorporate RGB lighting due to the material's translucency. In contrast, the HMX KD200 features a nylon top housing, a classic choice that leans toward a deeper, fuller sound profile. This difference in material results from nylon's softer characteristics, which absorb sound better than polycarbonate, thus rendering a rounder auditory experience. The distinct differences in top housing materials imply that users may favor one switch over the other depending on their desired sound aesthetics.
Despite the differences in the top housings, both switches share a commonality in their choice of bottom housing, as both the KTT Darling and the HMX KD200 utilize nylon. The nylon bottom housing in both switches provides a cohesive sound experience, contributing to a deeper sound profile when the key is bottomed out. The way nylon absorbs sound leads to a similar tactile and auditory experience when typing; the keys feel satisfying and produce a muted yet full sound that enhances the overall typing experience. This shared characteristic indicates that even though there are differing materials used in the top housings, they can still deliver a harmonized response in the context of bottom-out sounds and typing feel.
Ultimately, the interplay between the top and bottom housings results in unique sound profiles for each switch. For the KTT Darling, the polycarbonate top housing contributes to a clear and crisp sound when releasing a key, while the nylon bottom augments the deeper auditory experience upon bottoming out. In contrast, with the HMX KD200, the nylon top housing’s ability to absorb sound complements the bottom’s properties, leading to an overall rounder sound profile throughout key presses. Therefore, while the differences in top materials create distinct auditory experiences, the use of the same nylon in the bottom housings ensures that both switches can provide satisfying and complementary performance, catering to a wide range of user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Darling linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means they will provide a similar keystroke feel; typists can expect responsive typing and comfortable use during long sessions. However, the bottom out forces differ, with the Darling at 53 grams and the KD200 at 50 grams. This means the Darling switch provides a slightly heavier feel upon bottoming out, which could be favored by users who enjoy a more robust typing experience. In terms of weight preference, the KD200 is classified as the lighter option overall due to its lower bottom out force, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Darling, with its heavier bottom out force, might appeal more to those seeking a substantial feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.5 mm, indicating that they provide the same tactile experience in terms of key press depth. Since both switches share this identical travel distance, users can expect similar results when it comes to the feel and responsiveness of the switches during typing or gaming. This equivalence in travel distance suggests that aficionados of both switches will appreciate a consistent keypress experience, regardless of their choice between the Darling and the KD200.
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 HMX KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
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 of the KTT Darling linear switch to the HMX KD200 linear switch, the Darling clearly stands out with its crisp and resonant auditory profile. It produces a high-pitched, clacky noise when bottoming out, delivering a sharp, bright, and percussive sound that enhances the overall typing experience. This characteristic makes the typing feel engaging and lively, appealing to those who enjoy a pronounced auditory feedback while typing. While the KD200 is noted to be the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, specific sound descriptors are not provided. This leaves an element of uncertainty regarding its exact tonal qualities, but one can anticipate it will likely be similar in its pronounced sound profile given its classification.
In terms of feel, the KTT Darling offers a delightful typing experience, primarily characterized by its bouncy nature. This switch provides a notable springy responsiveness with each keystroke, allowing users to feel a lively rebound that adds to the satisfaction of typing. The substantial and chewy sensation experienced while pressing the keys contributes to an enjoyable tactile response, making it a great option for those who appreciate a tactile feedback element in their typing. In contrast, there is no specific information on the feel of the KD200, leaving potential users without a clear understanding of how it may compare.
In conclusion, both the KTT Darling and HMX KD200 linear switches cater to different auditory and tactile preferences. The Darling excels in providing a crisp sound and a bouncy, substantial feel, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy noticeable feedback in their typing experience. Although the KD200 is recognized for its clackiness, without additional information on its sound and feel, it's difficult to gauge how it would compare directly to the Darling. Users seeking a well-rounded auditory and tactile experience might find the Darling more aligned with their preferences, while those looking for something potentially unique with the KD200 may need to explore more.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, your preferences and typing style are key factors to consider. If you gravitate towards a more tactile and engaging typing experience, the KTT Darling is ideal for you. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams offers a chewy and substantial feel, while its responsive and bouncy nature makes every keystroke feel lively and satisfying. The resonant, high-pitched sound profile adds an exciting auditory dimension, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of acoustic feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and seek a linear switch that excels in terms of sound, the HMX KD200 should be your go-to. With a bottom-out force of just 50 grams and being the clackiest member of its family, the KD200 provides an experience that is crisp and bright, ideal for those who love a snappy reaction without the weight of a heavier switch. In essence, choose the KTT Darling for a more robust tactile feedback and sound experience, while the HMX KD200 is better suited for lighter keystrokes and a louder typing environment.
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