KTT Darling vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the KTT Darling, a linear switch, and the TKC Kiwi, a tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to preference and what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. The Darling offers a unique typing sensation with its chewy and substantial feel, along with a bouncy responsiveness and high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Kiwi provides a tactile bump at the top of each key press, accompanied by a snappy sound and smooth typing experience thanks to its factory lubed design. If you prioritize a bouncy and clacky typing experience, the Darling may be the switch for you. However, if you prefer a more tactile and polished feel, the Kiwi could be the better option. To make the best decision for your typing needs, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Darling and TKC Kiwi switches offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Darling utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Kiwi features a UHWMPE top housing, which produces a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. While both materials contribute to a distinctive sound profile, the polycarbonate may offer a clearer sound with a higher pitch compared to the bright and resonant sound of the UHWMPE.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Darling utilizes a nylon housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Kiwi incorporates a UHWMPE bottom housing, which also provides a bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. Although both materials result in a unique sound profile, the nylon may offer a duller and rounder sound compared to the bright and resonant sound of the UHWMPE. Despite the differences in sound profiles, both bottom housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience of the switches.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the KTT Darling and TKC Kiwi switches results in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The polycarbonate and nylon materials in the Darling offer a sharper and crisper sound profile with a deeper and fuller feel, while the UHWMPE materials in the Kiwi provide a brighter and resonant sound with a unique typing experience. Despite the differences, both switches offer quality sound and feel based on the specific housing materials used. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with a deeper feel or a brighter sound with resonant clacks, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch differ significantly in weight. The Darling has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Kiwi's 43 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Darling requires 53 grams, while the Kiwi demands a heavier 67 grams. This means that the Darling provides a more consistent and lighter typing experience overall, whereas the Kiwi offers a more substantial and tactile feel. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter and smoother feel of the Darling for longer typing sessions, while others may lean towards the heavier push of the Kiwi for a more satisfying typing experience. In this case, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the overall typing experience for each switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Darling linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it is evident that the Darling has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Kiwi has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Darling's 3.5 mm travel distance offers a more responsive typing experience, making it ideal for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Kiwi's 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper, more satisfying key press for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing experience.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Darling linear switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant sound profile, offering a crisp and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound, providing a more mellow and moderate tone. Depending on personal preference, the Darling will appeal to those who enjoy a vibrant and lively sound, while the Kiwi will suit those looking for a more subdued and balanced auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling switch is characterized by its bouncy sensation, giving users a springy and responsive typing experience. On the contrary, the TKC Kiwi switch offers a stepped and accented tactile feel, providing a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming. Additionally, the Kiwi switch is factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless keystroke right out of the box. Those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback may lean towards the Kiwi, while those seeking a more lively typing experience may opt for the Darling.
Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offer distinct qualities in sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The Darling provides a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a clacky and high-pitched sound, while the Kiwi offers a tactile bump with a snappy and immersive sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience, sound feedback, and level of tactile feedback desired. Whether you go with the Darling or the Kiwi, both switches promise a satisfying and engaging mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness and a high-pitched sound profile, the Darling linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, along with a snappy sound profile and factory lubing for smooth typing, then the Kiwi tactile switch would be the better option. Consider your sound and feel preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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