KTT Darling vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Both the KTT Darling and the Cherry MX Silent Red are linear switches known for their unique characteristics. The Darling offers a typing sensation that is chewy and substantial, with a bouncy and springy responsiveness to each keystroke, creating a satisfying tactile experience accompanied by a high-pitched, resonant sound. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red is a variant of the classic MX Red switch, providing a similar satisfying typing experience with a significantly quieter sound profile, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. Each switch has its own set of qualities that make it appealing to different users based on their preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
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 Cherry MX Silent Red switches use nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. However, the Darling utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in top housing material results in a clear and resonant sound compared to the rounder sound produced by the Cherry MX Silent Red's nylon top housing. Despite these variations, both switches offer a unique sound experience based on the housing materials used.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the Darling's top housing allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red's nylon top housing does not offer this visual feature. While the nylon bottom housing in both switches provides a deeper sound profile, it is the different top housing materials that create distinct tonal qualities. The Cherry MX Silent Red may appeal to those seeking a softer and duller sound, while the KTT Darling caters to those favoring a sharper and more resonant sound experience.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Darling and Cherry MX Silent Red switches comes down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics. The contrasting housing materials result in different sound profiles, with the polycarbonate top housing of the Darling producing a sharper sound compared to the rounder sound of the Cherry MX Silent Red's nylon top housing. However, both switches offer a deep and full sound experience thanks to their common use of nylon for the bottom housing. Whether you prefer a crisper or duller sound, both switches provide unique qualities based on their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that users can expect a similar level of force needed to trigger a keystroke on either switch. However, the Darling has a bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the MX Silent Red, which has an unknown bottom out force. The Darling switch offers a medium-light feel, while the MX Silent Red's bottom out force remains a mystery. When considering weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Darling for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may gravitate towards the heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, the Darling has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the MX Silent Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Despite the minor difference in distance, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular for their quicker response times, particularly favored by gamers. The Darling offers a slightly shorter travel distance for those seeking ultra-responsiveness, while the MX Silent Red provides a slightly deeper key press for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Overall, both switches offer comparable results in terms of travel distance, making them suitable choices for individuals seeking a faster and more efficient typing experience.
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 Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Darling linear switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant qualities, providing a crisp and engaging auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch offers a muted and thocky sound profile, significantly reducing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. While the Darling delivers a clacky and lively sound, the MX Silent Red operates quietly, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments.
In terms of feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a springy and elastic feedback sensation that adds a sense of liveliness to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch is described as textured, implying there may be noticeable friction when pressing the keys. This can offer a different tactile experience compared to the bouncy sensation of the Darling.
Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch delivers a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, along with a bouncy feel that adds springy responsiveness. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch offers a slightly heftier feel with a muted and thocky sound profile, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both providing a satisfying typing experience in their own unique ways.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a typing experience that is chewy, substantial, and bouncy, with a pronounced high-pitched sound profile upon bottoming out, the KTT Darling may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel similar to the MX Red but with a silent operation, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments, the Cherry MX Silent Red would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactile and auditory feedback (Darling) or noise reduction while maintaining a satisfying typing experience (MX Silent Red). Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing needs.
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