KTT Darling vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Darling and the Gateron Melodic offer very different typing experiences. The KTT Darling is a linear switch that provides a chewy and substantial typing sensation, with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. It delivers a high-pitched, resonant sound upon bottoming out, creating a blend of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic is a clicky switch that has smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, offering a buttery and smooth typing experience. It retains the classic clicky sound and tactile feedback without sacrificing smoothness. While the Darling is described as 'bouncy', 'clacky', and 'high-pitched', the Melodic is characterized as 'resonant', 'invigorating', and 'crunchy'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences, so it's important to consider these factors when choosing the best switch for your typing 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the KTT Darling and the Gateron Melodic feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate. This material is ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for a vibrant glow. The nylon bottom housings of both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both switches share similar qualities in their housing materials, the specific design and construction may lead to slight variations in sound and feel during use.
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both the KTT Darling and the Gateron Melodic results in a clear and resonant sound profile. This material is known for providing a distinct typing experience, with a crisper sound and a higher pitch. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches offer a deeper and more muted sound profile, as nylon has the ability to absorb sound more effectively. The combination of these materials in each switch creates a balanced typing experience, with a mix of sharpness and depth in the sound produced.
While the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Gateron Melodic are similar in their composition and qualities, the specific design of each switch may lead to differences in sound and feel. The split between the bottom and top housings allows for a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing influences the sound upon key release. Overall, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, with a combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings providing a range of sound profiles for users to enjoy.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch differ in their weight. The Darling has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Melodic, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Darling is 53 grams, while the Melodic has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Darling switch would provide a lighter typing experience, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Melodic switch would offer a more substantial push feel. Both switches have their advantages depending on individual preferences, with the Darling being lighter and the Melodic being heavier in terms of force.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Darling has a shorter travel distance compared to the Melodic. The Darling's 3.5 mm travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Melodic's 4 mm travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience one 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 Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 its high-pitched and resonant qualities, offering a clacky and sharp sound upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch also boasts a resonant sound profile but adds a crunchy element to its auditory experience. Both switches provide immersive typing experiences through their unique sound profiles, with the Darling offering a more pronounced high-pitched sound while the Melodic introduces a crunchy clickiness to the mix.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is known for its bouncy and responsive feedback, providing a spring-like sensation with each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is described as buttery and invigorating, delivering a smooth and fluid typing experience with moderate to firm actuation force. While the Darling offers a bouncy and lively feel, the Melodic provides a uniform and seamless typing sensation with a snappy and reactive touch.
Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Darling excels in providing a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched sound, while the Melodic stands out for its smoothness, clicky crunch, and invigorating feedback. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience on a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a substantial and chewy typing sensation with a bouncy and responsive feel, along with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, then the KTT Darling switch is perfect for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smooth and buttery keystroke experience with invigorating feedback, and prefer a resonant and crunchy sound profile, then the Gateron Melodic switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound profile. We hope this comparison helps you make an informed decision based on your preferences.
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