KTT Darling vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Darling and the TTC Neptune, both linear switches with unique characteristics. The Darling is praised for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, paired with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Neptune sets itself apart with an innovative internal structure that provides a smooth, almost frictionless glide combined with a springy resistance akin to chewy treats like mochi. While the Darling offers a high-pitched, clacky sound upon bottoming out, the Neptune boasts a muted and subdued sound signature, keeping the typing experience refined and unobtrusive. Ultimately, choosing between the Darling and the Neptune will depend on whether you prefer a more tactile and resonant typing experience or a smooth, buttery feel with a quieter sound profile. 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
41g
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
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the TTC Neptune, one key difference lies in the top housing. The Darling features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Neptune's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users, with the Darling offering a crisper sound and the Neptune providing a mellower tone. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Darling allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, adding a visual flair to the keyboard setup.
Moreover, the bottom housing materials of the two switches also differ. The Darling utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the material absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Neptune employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and clearer sound profile. This distinction in sound qualities between the two switches can influence how users perceive the typing experience, with nylon providing a rounder sound and polycarbonate offering a more resonant tone.
Furthermore, the division of qualities between the top and bottom housings of a switch can impact the overall sound and feel of typing on the keyboard. The characteristics of the bottom housing, such as deeper and fuller sounds in the Darling's nylon bottom housing, will be more pronounced during bottom-out actions. In contrast, the top housing, like the sharper sound profile of the Darling's polycarbonate top housing, will influence the sound when releasing a key. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the sound profile of the switch can help users choose the keyboard that best suits their preferences for typing feedback and sound aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is evident that the Darling has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Neptune's 41 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Darling requires 53 grams, whereas the Neptune only requires 50 grams. This makes the Neptune a lighter option overall, perfect for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Darling provides a slightly stronger push feel, which may appeal to users looking for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the Darling is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference - whether one prefers a lighter typing experience or a more substantial push feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for individuals looking for faster response times, such as gamers. The Darling switch is slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the Neptune switch, which may result in a slightly faster response time. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial keystroke feel may opt for the Neptune switch due to its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired key feel.
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 TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 offers a high-pitched and resonant typing experience that produces a crisp and engaging auditory feedback. In contrast, the TTC Neptune linear switch provides a more muted and subdued sound profile, ensuring a refined and unobtrusive typing ambiance. While the Darling leans towards a clacky and lively sound, the Neptune offers a more neutral and thocky feel, catering to different preferences in sound aesthetics. Both switches excel in providing distinct sound characteristics that enhance the typing experience, with the Darling being more engaging and resonant, while the Neptune offers a quieter and more subtle option for those seeking a refined typing atmosphere.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Darling linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a springy and responsive feedback that adds a lively feel to each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch offers a buttery and polished typing sensation, ensuring a smooth and frictionless glide with each key press. The Darling's bouncy nature contrasts with the Neptune's gummy and mild qualities, showcasing different tactile experiences for users to enjoy. Both switches excel in delivering a unique and pleasant typing feel, with the Darling focusing on bounce and responsiveness, while the Neptune emphasizes smoothness and effortless typing.
In conclusion, the KTT Darling linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Darling provides a more engaging, bouncy, and high-pitched sound with a substantial and chewy feel, while the Neptune offers a muted, smooth, and ultralight typing experience with a unique "matte" feel. Whether you prefer a more lively and resonant typing sensation like the Darling or a smoother and quieter typing experience like the Neptune, both switches deliver excellent performance in their respective sound and feel characteristics, ensuring a satisfying and personalized typing experience for newcomers and experienced users alike. Ultimately, choosing between the Darling and Neptune will depend on your preference for sound profile and tactile feedback, as both switches offer high-quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a typing sensation that is chewy, substantial, and bouncy with a high-pitched and resonant sound, then the KTT Darling switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter bottom out force and desire a smooth, almost frictionless glide with a springy resistance akin to chewy delights, along with a muted sound signature, then the TTC Neptune switch is the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feedback. Choose wisely based on what qualities resonate with you the most.
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