KTT Darling vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Darling and KTT Laurel stand out as two popular choices, each offering a unique typing experience. The Darling, a linear switch, boasts a chewy and substantial feel, along with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to every keystroke. In contrast, the Laurel, also a linear switch, features a medium-light design with a full POM housing for a comfortable typing experience. While the Darling produces a high-pitched, resonant sound, the Laurel offers a subtly low-pitched profile. If you're looking for a switch that is bouncy, clacky, and high-pitched, the Darling may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a low-pitched, snappy feel, the Laurel could be your best bet. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Darling and KTT Laurel switches showcase a stark contrast in sound profiles. The Darling's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the Laurel's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. This distinction in sound characteristics can greatly influence the overall typing experience for the user. The use of different materials allows for customization in sound preferences based on individual tastes.
On the other hand, both switches share similarities in their bottom housing materials. The Darling's nylon bottom housing and the Laurel's POM bottom housing both contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite having different top housings, the shared bottom housing materials ensure a similar typing experience in terms of sound. This demonstrates how the choice of housing material can impact the overall sound profile of a keyboard switch.
Furthermore, the split between the different housing materials in the top and bottom housings affects the overall sound production of the switches. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This division of characteristics allows for a more nuanced typing experience, with each housing material contributing distinct qualities to the sound profile of the switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Darling and Laurel switches will depend on individual preferences for sound characteristics in keyboard switches.
Weight
The KTT Darling linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Laurel linear switch's 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Darling requires 53 grams, which is also higher than the Laurel's 50 grams. This means that the Darling switch provides a bit more resistance throughout the keystroke process compared to the Laurel switch. In terms of weight, the Laurel switch is lighter overall, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the Darling switch, being slightly heavier, may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial push feel when typing. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, with the Darling offering a bit more resistance and the Laurel being lighter in comparison.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distance, it is evident that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of keypress depth. The consistent travel distance of 3.5 mm ensures that users can expect a uniform feel when using either switch, resulting in a familiar typing experience regardless of their choice. Whether you opt for the Darling or the Laurel linear switch, you can expect comparable results in terms of travel distance and keypress feedback.
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 KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 KTT Laurel linear switch, the Darling is known for its high-pitched and resonant tones, providing a crisp and engaging auditory experience. In contrast, the Laurel offers a more subtly low-pitched sound profile, delivering a mellow and bass-heavy tone. Depending on personal preference, individuals may lean towards the sharp and bright sound of the Darling or the more subdued tone of the Laurel. Keep in mind that the overall sound produced can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Darling is praised for its bouncy tactile feedback, giving a spring-like sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel switch is known for its snappy responsiveness, providing a super responsive typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations that cater to different typing preferences. Whether you prefer a lively and rebounding feel like the Darling or a more responsive and vibrant typing experience like the Laurel, both switches have distinct characteristics to offer.
In conclusion, the KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch present subjective qualities in both sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The Darling impresses with its chewy and bouncy feel accompanied by a resonant high-pitched sound, while the Laurel strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort with a subtly low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for tactile feedback and auditory experience. If you enjoy a bouncy and clacky typing sensation, paired with a high-pitched and sharp sound, the Darling may be the ideal choice. Conversely, if you prefer a snappy and responsive feel with a low-pitched and mellow sound, the Laurel could be the preferred option. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience based on personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a typing experience that is chewy, substantial, and bouncy with a pronounced high-pitched sound profile, then the KTT Darling linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a balance of responsiveness and comfort with a subtly low-pitched sound profile, then the KTT Laurel linear switch would be more suitable for your needs. Consider your preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force to determine which switch would best enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, both the Darling and Laurel switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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