KTT Darling vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Darling and the Cherry MX Black, both linear switches. The KTT Darling is renowned for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, accompanied by a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. This switch also delivers a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, offering a unique blend of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black boasts Cherry's Hyperglide tooling, providing a classic textured smoothness and a deep sound profile while typing. While the Darling is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Resonant', the MX Black is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Stiff'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and 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
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Cherry MX Black, it is clear that they both use nylon for the bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. However, the housing of the Darling's top housing is made of polycarbonate, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the MX Black's top housing is made of nylon, which produces a duller and rounder sound. This highlights a key difference between the two switches in terms of the sound profile they offer.
While both the Darling and the MX Black utilize nylon for the bottom housing, the top housing materials set them apart in terms of sound and aesthetics. The use of polycarbonate in the Darling's top housing makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the MX Black's nylon top housing offers a more classic sound profile, creating a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in top housing material showcases how the choice of material can impact the overall typing experience and sound produced by the switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the KTT Darling and the Cherry MX Black plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and aesthetics of each switch. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a fuller sound, the use of different materials in the top housing sets them apart. The polycarbonate top housing of the Darling creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the MX Black offers a more classic sound. This comparison highlights how the choice of housing materials can greatly impact the overall typing experience and the sound produced by mechanical switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it is evident that the Darling is lighter in both aspects. The Darling has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. The lighter actuation force of the Darling may appeal to those who prefer a gentler touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier Cherry MX Black may be favored by those who desire a more pronounced push feel. Both switches provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, but the choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, we can see that the Darling has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the MX Black has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying and deliberate key press. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Cherry MX Black being on the longer end of the spectrum. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and how you like the feel of your keystrokes.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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 provides a unique and engaging experience with its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile. Each keystroke produces a sharp and crisp sound, adding to the overall tactile and auditory feedback of the switch. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch offers a deep and low-pitched sound that is more familiar and classic in nature. The choice between these switches will depend on personal preference, with the Darling offering a more lively and resonant sound, while the MX Black providing a deeper and mellow tone.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is known for its bouncy and springy feedback, giving a satisfying rebound with each key press. This lively feel adds to the overall typing experience, making it a preferred choice for those who enjoy a more dynamic sensation while typing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is described as having a textured and potentially stiff feel, offering a different tactile experience compared to the Darling. This switch may appeal to those who prefer a bit of friction in their keystrokes.
Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Darling provides a clacky, high-pitched sound and a bouncy feel, creating a unique and engaging typing experience. Meanwhile, the MX Black offers a deep, low-pitched sound and a textured, potentially stiff feel, catering to those who prefer a more classic and tactile typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience with their respective qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a chewy, bouncy typing sensation with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, the KTT Darling switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and appreciate a smoother, textured feeling with a low-pitched sound profile, the Cherry MX Black switch may better suit your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
