KTT Darling vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Darling and KTT Matcha offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The KTT Darling, a linear switch, boasts a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a bouncy and springy responsiveness to each keystroke. It delivers a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, providing a satisfying blend of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha, a tactile switch, offers a comfortable and snappy tactility while typing, along with a clean bottom-out sound. The Matcha switch is characterized by its stepped and subtle feel, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities that appeal to different preferences, but diving deeper into their specific features will help you determine which switch is best suited for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The primary difference between the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the KTT Matcha lies in their bottom housings. The Darling features a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. In contrast, the Matcha utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that absorbs less sound, leading to a more clear and resonant typing experience.
On the other hand, both the Darling and the Matcha share a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a similar sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate's stiff nature enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing on the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting, as it allows light to shine through the housing for a visually appealing effect.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Darling and the KTT Matcha will depend on personal preference for sound and feel when typing. The nylon bottom housing of the Darling offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha provides a sharper and crisper sound. Similarly, the polycarbonate top housing of both switches ensures a consistent sharp and clear sound profile, making them both reliable options for those seeking a high-quality typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch differ in weight. The Darling has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Matcha's 40 grams, but they both have similar bottom out forces of 53 grams and 45 grams respectively. The Darling provides a medium-light feel overall, while the Matcha offers a lighter typing experience. The difference in weight between the two switches could cater to different preferences, with the Darling being more suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier push for a more substantial typing experience, and the Matcha being ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended periods of typing or gaming. It's essential to consider these factors when choosing a switch that best suits your needs and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the KTT Matcha tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Darling switch may appeal to those who prioritize quick feedback, while the Matcha switch may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience the individual is seeking.
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 Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 well-known for its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience that can be both engaging and satisfying for the user. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch also offers a clacky sound, emphasizing a clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem. Depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard, users can expect a distinct sound signature from each switch.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is praised for its bouncy sensation, offering a springy feedback that adds to the typing experience, giving users a sense of rebound with each keystroke. In contrast, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is described as having a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle feel. The variety of tactile experiences available with the Matcha switch allows users to tailor their typing experience to their preferences, whether they prefer a more pronounced tactility or a lighter touch.
With the subjective qualities of the KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch compared, it is evident that each switch offers unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Darling switch provides a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a bouncy feel and a resonant, high-pitched sound, the Matcha switch offers a comfortable, snappy tactility with a clean bottom-out sound and a variety of tactile experiences to choose from. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience, users can select the switch that best suits their needs and preferences to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness and a high-pitched, resonant sound, then the KTT Darling may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable, snappy tactility with a clean bottom-out sound and a more clacky feel, then the KTT Matcha could be the ideal switch for your typing needs. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feedback to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences and typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that resonates most with you.
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