KTT Darling vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Darling and KTT Miaowu are two exceptional linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The Darling is beloved for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, accompanied by a bouncy and springy responsiveness with each keystroke. Its high-pitched and resonant sound upon bottoming out provides a unique blend of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Miaowu showcases enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action thanks to KTT's latest molds and the use of POK in its stem. Both switches are categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', making them suitable for users who enjoy a noticeable tactile feedback during typing. 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
Housing materials
Both the KTT Darling and the KTT Miaowu feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This makes them ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows the lighting to shine through effectively. The similarities in the top housing material ensure that both switches will deliver a clear and resonant sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience for users.
On the other hand, the KTT Darling and the KTT Miaowu differ in terms of their bottom housing material, with the Darling featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Miaowu also utilizing nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon housing, highlighting the importance of the bottom housing material in the overall sound and feel of the switch.
While both the KTT Darling and the KTT Miaowu share similar top housing material in polycarbonate, their differences in bottom housing material showcase how the qualities of each material impact the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing the key. By utilizing different bottom housing materials, each switch is able to offer a unique typing experience that caters to the preferences of different users.
Weight
The KTT Darling linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Miaowu linear switch, which has an actuation force of 43 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Darling requires 53 grams, whereas the Miaowu only needs 50 grams. This means that the Darling switch is slightly heavier both in actuation and bottom out force compared to the Miaowu switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Miaowu switch would be the better option, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more resistance and a more substantial typing feel, the Darling switch would be the preferred choice. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, but the slight differences may cater to different preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Darling and KTT Miaowu linear switches have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of the two switches, it is clear that they offer the same tactile experience to users. The similarity in travel distance means that when pressing down on keys using either switch, users can expect a consistent and familiar feel. This makes it easier for users to switch between keyboards equipped with these switches without having to adjust their typing style. Overall, the KTT Darling and KTT Miaowu linear switches offer a smooth typing experience with the same travel distance, providing users with reliable performance in their keyboard usage.
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 Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 that is sharp, crisp, and resonant. This produces an engaging blend of tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch also provides a clacky sound profile, similar to the Darling. However, without the high-pitched characteristics, the Miaowu switch may offer a slightly different auditory experience depending on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the KTT Darling and Miaowu linear switches are described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation. This lively feel gives users a sense of rebound when pressed, enhancing the overall typing experience with a responsive and satisfying touch.
Overall, both the KTT Darling and Miaowu linear switches offer similar bouncy feel qualities, providing users with a responsive and tactile typing experience. However, they differentiate in terms of sound, with the Darling switch delivering a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, while the Miaowu switch offers a clacky sound without the same high-pitched characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, as both options present unique qualities for a mechanical keyboard enthusiast.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it's important to consider your preferences for typing sensation, bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you enjoy a typing experience that is chewy and substantial with a pronounced bounciness, along with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, then the KTT Darling switch might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother keystroke action with enhanced stem stability, along with a clacky sound profile, then the KTT Miaowu switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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