KTT Darling vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Darling and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry offer unique typing experiences to cater to different preferences. The Darling, a linear switch, provides a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry, a tactile switch, boasts a sharp tactile bump that offers a sharp typing feel, accompanied by a lower-than-average sound frequency for a deeper but not "thocky" typing experience. While the Darling is described as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', and 'Resonant', the Blueberry is characterized as 'Snappy', 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Stiff'. If you prefer a chewy and bouncy typing sensation with high-pitched feedback, the Darling may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp tactile bump with a lower sound frequency for an invigorating typing experience, the Blueberry might be more to your liking. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Darling Linear

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$4.50

$3.90 per 10

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, we see a clear distinction between the materials used for the top housing. The Darling's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while also allowing for RGB lighting through its translucency. On the other hand, the Blueberry's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. Despite the differences in sound profile, both materials contribute to a unique typing experience.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Darling's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound that adds to the overall typing experience. Similarly, the Blueberry's POM bottom housing also offers a deeper and more muted sound profile, aligning with the qualities of its top housing. Both switches ensure a pleasing sound that reflects the material used for their bottom housing.

Ultimately, although the top and bottom housing materials of the KTT Darling and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry differ, they each bring unique qualities to the overall sound profile of the switches. The split between the top and bottom housing allows for a more nuanced typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether opting for the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, more muted sound of POM, users are sure to enjoy a satisfying typing experience with either switch.

Weight

The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch are significantly different. The Darling has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Blueberry's 55 grams, making the Darling better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Darling requires 53 grams, while the Blueberry requires a much heavier 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a switch with a heavier force for a more tactile feel would gravitate towards the Blueberry switch. Ultimately, the Darling switch would be ideal for users looking for a lighter typing experience, while the Blueberry switch would be suitable for those who prefer a heavier and more pronounced feedback while typing.

Travel distance

The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Darling switch with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the NovelKeys Blueberry with its longer travel distance of 4 mm. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Darling linear switch is best described as having a clacky and high-pitched sound profile that resonates upon bottoming out, creating an engaging tactile and auditory experience. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a lower-pitched sound, deeper than average but not "thocky," providing a more mellow tone during typing sessions. The choice between these switches will ultimately depend on personal preference for sound, with the Darling offering a sharper, crisper sound and the Blueberry providing a more subdued, bass-heavy tone. Remember that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the KTT Darling linear switch is known for its bouncy sensation, providing a springy and responsive feedback with each keystroke. Conversely, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is described as snappy and possibly buttery, offering a super responsive typing experience that feels alive and fluid. The Blueberry switch also features textured properties, providing noticeable friction when pressed, which may appeal to some users seeking a unique tactile sensation. While the Darling excels in providing a bouncy and lively feel, the Blueberry offers a smooth and responsive typing experience with added texture for tactile feedback.

In conclusion, the KTT Darling linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy a sharp and high-pitched sound with a bouncy typing sensation, the Darling switch would be the preferred choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a lower-pitched, mellow sound with a snappy and possibly buttery typing feel, the Blueberry switch may be more suitable. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are looking for a typing experience that is both smooth and satisfying, you may want to consider the KTT Darling linear switch. With its chewy and substantial feel, coupled with a bouncy and springy response, it provides a unique and engaging typing sensation. Additionally, the high-pitched and resonant sound profile of the Darling adds to the overall experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharper tactile bump and a lower-frequency sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch might be more to your liking. With its snappy and responsive feel, as well as the potential for a buttery or invigorating typing experience, the Blueberry offers a different yet equally immersive typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Darling Linear

$4.50

$3.90 per 10

Learn more

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more