KTT Darling vs. Outemu Lime
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Outemu Lime switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Darling, a linear switch, to the Outemu Lime, a tactile switch, it becomes apparent that each offers a distinct typing experience. The Darling is celebrated for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, coupled with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to keystrokes. In contrast, the Lime switches are known for their lightweight nature, approachable tactility, and silencing properties, providing a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility. The Darling produces a clacky, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, while the Lime offers a muted and subtle typing experience. Both switches have their unique attributes that cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Outemu Lime, it is clear that the Darling utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, while the Lime uses nylon for the same component. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, nylon in the Lime results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer material that absorbs more sound. While both materials have their strengths, the choice between the two will depend on the desired sound and feel of the switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Darling and the Lime use nylon for this component. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This means that when pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures that typists will experience a more rounded and dull sound, which can be pleasing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
Overall, while the Darling and the Lime have different top housing materials, their bottom housing components are the same. This means that the sound profiles of both switches will be influenced by the qualities of the nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound experience. However, the top housing material of each switch will still play a role in the overall sound output, with polycarbonate creating a sharper sound in the Darling and nylon offering a deeper sound in the Lime. In the end, both switches provide unique typing experiences based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, it is evident that the Darling switch is heavier compared to the Lime switch. The Darling switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it more medium-light in comparison to the Lime switch, which has an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, giving it a lighter feel. The Darling switch requires a slightly stronger push, providing a more substantial typing experience, while the Lime switch offers a lighter touch, ideal for longer typing sessions for some users. Both switches have similar characteristics, offering a smooth keystroke experience, but the slight difference in actuation and bottom out forces can cater to individuals with specific preferences in keyboard weight.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Darling has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lime. Both switches fall in the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gamers looking for fast response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users. If you prefer a slightly deeper keypress, the KTT Darling may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly shallower feel, the Outemu Lime tactile switch could be the preferred choice. Overall, both switches offer similar performance in terms of travel distance, so you can expect comparable results from both.
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 Outemu Lime comes in at $3.40 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 characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound that is resonant upon bottoming out, providing a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a muted sound profile that is softer and quieter, catering to those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. The choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference, with the Darling providing a more engaging auditory feedback and the Lime offering a more subdued acoustic experience.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback that adds a level of liveliness to each keystroke. Meanwhile, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a mild and feathery typing experience, with a gentle resistance that reduces finger fatigue and strain during extended typing sessions. Whether one prefers a more pronounced and bouncy feel like the Darling or a lighter and more approachable feel like the Lime, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
In conclusion, the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Darling excels in providing a tactile and engaging typing sensation with its bouncy feel and resonant sound, while the Lime appeals to those seeking a quieter and lighter typing experience with its feathery touch and muted sound profile. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ultimately allowing users to customize their typing experience based on their individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you enjoy a medium-light typing experience with a chewy and bouncy feel, along with a resonant, high-pitched sound, the Darling switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight switch with a touch of tactility, muted sound, and feathery light typing experience, the Lime switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the typing sensation, sound profile, and overall feel that best matches your preferences and typing style. So, make sure to explore and experiment with both switches to find the one that enhances your typing experience the most.
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