KTT Darling vs. Keygeek Keygeek Raw
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Darling linear switch to the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, it's clear that both offer distinct advantages that cater to different preferences. The KTT Darling is known for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, paired with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw stands out with its unique material blend, combining Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon to create a creamy yet lightweight switch. While the Darling provides a clacky, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, the Raw offers a subtle and textured feel right out of the box. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Darling and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw use unique housing materials to create distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The Darling's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound with excellent clarity and resonance, ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw's Nylon & UPE blend top housing provides a different typing experience, with a more exclusive material blend that may offer a unique sound profile compared to traditional polycarbonate.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Darling features a nylon bottom housing that generates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer material that absorbs more sound for a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw's UMPE & Si blend bottom housing offers a different feel and sound experience exclusive to this switch model. Each bottom housing material impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, influencing the overall typing experience for users of both switches.
Overall, while the housing materials between the Darling and the Keygeek Raw differ, the impact of these materials on the typing experience is significant. The choice between a polycarbonate top housing with a nylon bottom housing in the Darling and the nylon & UPE blend top housing with UMPE & Si blend bottom housing in the Keygeek Raw will result in distinct sound profiles and key feel. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound with clarity and resonance or a deeper, fuller sound with a duller tone, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, it is evident that the Darling is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Keygeek Raw is heavier with an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 57.5 grams. The Darling offers a medium-light typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw provides a medium typing experience, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial push feel for their keystrokes. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to experience a comfortable typing experience regardless of their preference for lighter or heavier switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, slightly longer than the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different feel when typing or gaming. Those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may lean towards the KTT Darling, while those who prefer a slightly shallower feel may prefer the Keygeek Keygeek Raw. Ultimately, the difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches may not be significant enough for most users to notice, so you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance with either option.
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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 provides a clacky and high-pitched typing experience, delivering a sharp and crisp sound that can be immersive and engaging. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch is described as having a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of purposes without being overly loud or obtrusive. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as keyboard construction and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling switch offers a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that adds a lively feel to typing. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw linear switch is known for its textured feel out of the box, offering a slightly scratchy experience that may appeal to users looking for a different tactile sensation. Additionally, the Keygeek Raw switch is described as mild and subtle, providing a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone suitable for most users.
Overall, while the KTT Darling and Keygeek Raw linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a bouncy and resonant typing experience with the Darling switch or a more neutral and textured feel with the Keygeek Raw switch, both options can offer a satisfying typing experience depending on your personal preferences. Ultimately, trying out both switches may be the best way to determine which one suits your typing style and preferences the most.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the Darling if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams and enjoy a typing sensation that feels both chewy and substantial with a bouncy responsiveness. Additionally, if you appreciate a high-pitched and resonant sound profile while typing, the Darling may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 57.5 grams and value a unique material blend that results in a creamy yet lightweight feel, the Keygeek Raw switch would be an excellent option. Furthermore, if you prefer a switch that arrives unlubricated with a slightly textured feel out of the box and enjoy hand-lubing your switches, the Keygeek Raw is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing sensation, sound profile, and feel to ensure the switch you choose aligns with your preferences and typing style.
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