KTT Darling vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Darling and the KTT Lightning are both linear switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Darling is known for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, along with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. Its high-pitched and resonant sound upon bottoming out adds to the overall tactile and auditory feedback, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Lightning is praised for its "speed" switch characteristics, perfect for situations where milliseconds can make a difference in winning or losing. It offers a slick typing feel with a clacky sound profile, giving it a polished and subtle appeal. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics to consider when choosing the best one for your needs; 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
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the KTT Lightning, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. The use of polycarbonate in housings results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. This similarity in housing material between the two switches ensures that users can expect a consistent sound profile and aesthetic when using either the Darling or the Lightning.
However, where the two switches differ is in the material used for the bottom housing. The Darling features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Lightning also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a focus on producing a rounder and duller sound. Despite this difference in bottom housing material, both the KTT Darling and the KTT Lightning provide a satisfying typing experience with their nylon bottom housings, ensuring users can enjoy a tactile and responsive feel while typing.
Overall, the choice of materials for the top and bottom housings of the KTT Darling and the KTT Lightning plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for the top housing, they each offer a unique sound profile due to the differing nylon bottom housings. The split qualities of the housing materials result in a well-rounded typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Whether opting for the Darling or the Lightning, users can expect a premium typing experience with distinct sound profiles tailored to their preferences.
Weight
The KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch both offer a relatively light typing experience compared to other switches on the market. The Darling switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a medium-light touch. In contrast, the Lightning switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it even lighter. This difference in force between the two switches means that the Darling switch may offer a slightly more substantial typing experience, while the Lightning switch may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter touch. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Darling switch being slightly heavier and the Lightning switch being slightly lighter, catering to different preferences for typing feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3mm. In this case, the Darling has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lightning. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which is favored by gamers for quicker response times. However, for those who enjoy a bit more key travel for a more substantial feel when typing or gaming, the Darling switch may be the better option. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding key travel distance and responsiveness.
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 Lightning comes in at $3.41 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 it comes to sound, the KTT Darling linear switch offers a high-pitched, resonant, and clacky experience, providing a crisp and engaging auditory feedback that resonates with each keystroke. In contrast, the KTT Lightning linear switch also offers a clacky sound profile but adds a chirpy element, giving it a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart. Both switches cater to individuals who enjoy a sound that is sharp and snappy, but the Darling delves deeper into the high-pitched and resonant tones, while the Lightning brings a hint of chirpiness to the table.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is characterized by a bouncy sensation, offering a springy responsiveness that enhances the typing experience with a lively feel and rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch is described as subtle and polished, providing a gentle resistance that maintains a light typing feel along with a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. The Darling focuses on delivering a bouncy and elastic feedback, whereas the Lightning aims for a more subtle and polished typing sensation.
In conclusion, while both the KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they cater to slightly different preferences. The Darling provides a chewy and substantial typing sensation with bouncy feedback and a resonant, high-pitched sound, while the Lightning offers a slick feel with a clacky sound profile, complemented by a chirpy element. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a more bouncy and resonant typing experience or a subtle and polished one, but either way, you can expect a quality linear switch that delivers on performance and satisfaction.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a more substantial and bouncy feel with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, the Darling may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and a slick type feel with a clacky sound profile, the Lightning switch is likely the more suitable option. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics.
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