KTT Darling vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs, the KTT Darling and Outemu Cream Blue offer unique experiences worth considering. The KTT Darling, a linear switch, stands out for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, accompanied by a bouncy and springy responsiveness with each keystroke. The high-pitched and resonant sound it produces upon bottoming out adds to the tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue, a clicky switch, provides a different typing experience. While not much is known about its specific characteristics, clicky switches are generally known for their satisfying tactile feedback and audible click sound. Choosing between the KTT Darling and Outemu Cream Blue depends on personal preference for the typing sensation and sound profile you desire. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Outemu Cream Blue, one key difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Darling features a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Cream Blue uses a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer and sound-absorbing properties. While the Darling's polycarbonate top housing is better suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing creates a classic typing experience with a rounder sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Darling and Cream Blue utilize nylon material. This leads to a consistent experience in terms of sound profile, as both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound due to the sound-absorbing nature of nylon. The softer plastic of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound when typing on either switch. Although the bottom housing may have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, the top housing will play a significant role in the sound produced when letting go of a key.
In conclusion, while the Darling and Cream Blue differ in their top housing materials, both switches leverage nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound profile characterized by depth and fullness. The choice between polycarbonate and nylon for the top housing ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound characteristics. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound (Darling) or a deeper, fuller sound (Cream Blue), both switches promise a satisfying typing experience with their respective housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch offer different typing experiences. The Darling has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Cream Blue's 50 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with less effort. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Darling requires 53 grams of force while the Cream Blue needs 65 grams, giving it a firmer and more substantial typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Darling switch, whereas those who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the Cream Blue. In both cases, the actuation force and bottom out force play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience, with each switch offering a unique feel to suit different preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the Darling has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Cream Blue's 4 mm. The Darling's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the Cream Blue's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distance, with the Darling being ideal for those looking for a quicker keystroke and the Cream Blue being preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance in a mechanical keyboard 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 Outemu Cream Blue 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
When comparing the KTT Darling linear switch to the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the Darling offers a unique typing experience with its chewy and substantial feel, while also providing a bouncy and springy responsiveness. The high-pitched and resonant sound produced by the Darling adds to the overall tactile and auditory feedback, creating an engaging typing experience.
In contrast, information on the sound and feel of the Cream Blue switch is not available. However, based on the qualities of the Darling switch, it is safe to assume that the Cream Blue switch may offer a different typing feel and sound profile.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is important to highlight the individual preferences of the user. Those who appreciate a bouncy and substantial typing experience with a resonant and high-pitched sound may lean towards the Darling switch. On the other hand, users who prefer a different feel and sound profile may find the Cream Blue switch to be more to their liking. Ultimately, the best switch for each individual will depend on their personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, consider the type of typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a typing sensation that is chewy, substantial, and bouncy, with a pronounced springy responsiveness and a high-pitched, resonant sound upon bottoming out, then the Darling may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clicky sound profile, the Cream Blue could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
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