KTT Darling vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Darling and the Outemu Black mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both switches fall under the linear category, offering a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump. The Darling stands out with its unique typing sensation, described as chewy and substantial, with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each key press. On the other hand, the Black switch remains more understated in terms of typing experience. Despite lacking specific standout features at first glance, the Black switch provides a reliable and consistent typing experience. Whether you prefer a more engaging and tactile feedback from the Darling or a simpler yet dependable performance from the Black, both switches have something to offer. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 Outemu Black, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. The clear nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Darling and the Black differ in their bottom housing material, with the Darling using nylon. Nylon produces a deeper and fuller sound profile as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both switch housings have distinct characteristics, they work together to create a unique typing experience.
When it comes to typing on switches with different top and bottom housing materials like the KTT Darling and Outemu Black, the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing, such as the nylon used in the Darling, has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. On the other hand, the top housing, like the polycarbonate in the Black, influences the sound when releasing a key. This split allows for a varied typing experience that combines the strengths of each material to create a balanced sound profile.
While the housing materials of the KTT Darling and Outemu Black may vary, both switches offer unique advantages in terms of sound profiles and typing experiences. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, ideal for users looking for a crisper typing feel. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in the Darling provides a deeper and fuller sound that absorbs more noise, resulting in a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, both switches showcase how different housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The KTT Darling linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Black linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams. Additionally, the Darling has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Black has a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams. This means that the Darling switch would provide a lighter typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a lighter keypress. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch would offer a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for keypresses.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Black linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Darling offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers looking for fast feedback. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Outemu Black switch provides a more substantial and deeper keystroke feel, which some users may find more comfortable for extended typing sessions. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, catering to a variety of preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize speed or depth in your 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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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 offers a clacky and high-pitched typing experience with resonant feedback upon bottoming out, creating a crisp and engaging auditory sensation. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Black linear switch's sound characteristics is currently unavailable. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Darling switch is renowned for its bouncy and springy tactile feedback, providing a lively sensation with each keystroke. Unfortunately, there is no available description of the tactile feel of the Outemu Black linear switch at this time.
Considering the available information, it is evident that the KTT Darling linear switch stands out for its distinct sound profile and bouncy tactile feedback. While details regarding the Outemu Black linear switch's sound and feel characteristics are currently unavailable, it is important to take into account individual preferences and requirements when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities, and depending on one's personal preferences, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel from either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it all comes down to personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a medium-light switch with a chewy and substantial typing sensation, accompanied by a bouncy and springy responsiveness, the KTT Darling is the way to go. Additionally, if you enjoy a high-pitched and resonant sound profile while typing, the Darling switch will provide a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with a bottom out force of 82 grams and are not concerned with a specific sound or feel profile, the Outemu Black may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, consider your typing preferences and needs to determine which switch will enhance your typing experience the most.
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