KTT Darling vs. Durock Medium Tactile
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Durock Medium Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Darling and the Durock Medium Tactile offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The KTT Darling is a linear switch known for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, coupled with a bouncy and springy responsiveness that makes each keystroke engaging. In contrast, the Durock Medium Tactile is a tactile switch that boasts a pronounced yet balanced tactility, along with a jelly-like sound signature. While the Darling provides a high-pitched, resonant sound upon bottoming out, the Medium Tactile offers a more subdued and polished auditory feedback. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics that appeal to different individuals, offering a range of options for those seeking a specific typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Durock Medium Tactile, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The use of polycarbonate, a stiff plastic, leads to a more resonant sound overall. Additionally, due to its translucency, polycarbonate is ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. While both switches share this top housing material, their differences emerge in the choice of bottom housing material.
In contrast to their shared polycarbonate top housing, the Darling and the Medium Tactile use nylon for their respective bottom housings. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience by offering a balance of top and bottom housing characteristics.
The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience for both the Darling and the Medium Tactile. The bottom housing, influenced by the nylon material, impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed. On the other hand, the top housing, constructed from polycarbonate, contributes more to the sound produced when releasing a key. By combining these distinct housing materials, both switches are able to deliver a unique tactile and auditory typing experience, catering to different user preferences and typing styles.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch differ significantly in weight. The Darling has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option. In contrast, the Medium Tactile switch has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, but the actuation force is unknown. The actuation force is crucial for determining the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force indicates the amount of pressure needed to press a key all the way down. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Darling, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals desiring a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Medium Tactile for a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether a lighter or heavier force is preferred for typing or gaming activities.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Darling has a shorter travel distance compared to the Medium Tactile. The Darling's 3.5 mm travel distance falls in the range of shorter travel distances which are favored by gamers for faster response times. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile's 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper and more traditional key press feel. So, if you prefer a quicker and more responsive key press, the Darling would be the better option, whereas if you prefer a more substantial key press feel, the Medium Tactile would be the preferred choice. Ultimately, both switches offer different travel distances to cater to different preferences and experiences.
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 Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched experience, with a resonant quality that adds to the overall typing satisfaction. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch provides a jelly-like sound signature that may appeal to those looking for a unique auditory experience. Depending on personal preference and setup, users can expect a crisp and bright sound from the Darling, while the Medium Tactile offers a more subtle and balanced sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch stands out with its bouncy feedback, offering a springy responsiveness that enhances the typing experience. In comparison, the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch features an accented and polished tactile feel, providing a moderate amount of tactility that is smooth and refined. Users who enjoy a lively and rebounding keypress may prefer the Darling, while those seeking a more controlled and gentle typing sensation may lean towards the Medium Tactile.
Overall, both the KTT Darling linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Darling excels in providing a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a resonant high-pitched sound, the Medium Tactile stands out for its balanced tactility and jelly-like sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preference and the desired typing experience, but users can expect a satisfying and engaging result with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a medium-light bottom out force that provides a chewy and substantial typing sensation along with a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched sound, the KTT Darling linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force that offers a balanced tactile feel with a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you desire.
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