KTT Darling vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the KTT Darling, a linear switch, and the KTT Orange, also a linear switch, the decision may ultimately come down to your preference for typing sensation and sound profile. The Darling offers a chewy and substantial typing experience with a pronounced bounciness and a high-pitched, resonant sound upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the Orange switch boasts a bouncy feel with a slick, frictionless typing experience and a low-pitched sound profile. While both switches provide a bouncy feel, the Darling emphasizes a clacky, high-pitched sound, while the Orange focuses on a smoother, low-pitched sound. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Darling and the KTT Orange are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound profile from both the Darling and the Orange due to their shared polycarbonate top housing material.
However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The KTT Darling features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the KTT Orange utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which mirrors the qualities of the polycarbonate top housing. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with a clear and resonant tone. Users looking for a more muffled sound may prefer the Darling's nylon bottom housing, while those seeking a crisper sound may lean towards the Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Darling and the KTT Orange may come down to personal preference in sound profile. The split between the bottom and top housing materials in these switches means that the bottom housing will have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the deeper and fuller sound of nylon or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user preferences.
Weight
The KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch both have similar actuation and bottom out forces, with the Darling being slightly lighter at 45 grams for actuation and the Orange at 46 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 53 grams, making them suitable for those who prefer a medium-light typing experience. The slight difference in actuation force may not be noticeable to most users, so in terms of feel, one can expect similar results from both switches. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Darling may be the better choice, while those who prefer a slightly stronger push feel may lean towards the Orange. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience the same amount of travel distance as the switch moves from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer a similar typing experience and users can expect consistent results when using either switch.
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 Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Darling linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched typing experience with resonant feedback upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch provides a low-pitched sound profile, giving a more bass-heavy and mellow tone when typing. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, catering to different preferences in sound profiles. However, the ultimate sound produced by the switch will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard type and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the KTT Darling and Orange linear switches offer a bouncy typing sensation, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback when keys are pressed. This bouncy feel gives users a lively experience, with a sense of rebound with each keystroke. Moreover, the KTT Orange switch boasts a frictionless typing experience, characterized by a smooth and effortless key travel that minimizes any resistance or friction when pressing the keys. This feature enhances the overall typing experience, ensuring fluidity and ease of use.
Overall, while the KTT Darling linear switch offers a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched sound, the KTT Orange linear switch stands out for its bouncy feel, low-pitched sound profile, and frictionless key travel. Both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experience. Whether you choose the Darling or Orange linear switch, you can expect a satisfying and engaging typing experience that meets your specific preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the KTT Darling linear switch or the KTT Orange linear switch, you should take into account your preference for typing sensation and sound profile. If you enjoy a typing experience that is chewy, substantial, and bouncy with a high-pitched, resonant sound, the Darling switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy, frictionless typing feel with a low-pitched sound profile, the Orange switch could be more fitting for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific typing sensation and auditory feedback that best aligns with your personal preferences and typing style.
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