KTT Darling vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Darling and the Outemu Cream Pink mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note that they both fall under the linear switch category but offer distinct typing experiences. The Darling stands out for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, accompanied by a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Cream Pink doesn't have a specific standout feature but is known for its smooth linear feel. The Darling is lauded for its clacky and high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, providing a delightful blend of tactile and auditory feedback. In contrast, the Cream Pink's sound profile is not specified. If you seek a switch with a bouncy, clacky feel and high-pitched sound, the Darling may be the way to go. 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
2.00 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 Pink, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature which absorbs more sound than stiffer plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound for both switches when typing. However, the Darling opts for a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is in contrast to the Cream Pink's nylon top housing which also contributes to a deeper sound but with a different tonal quality.
Despite the differences in top housing materials, the polycarbonate used in the Darling's top housing and the nylon used in the Cream Pink's housing both offer benefits for switch users. The polycarbonate of the Darling allows for a more resonant and clear sound profile, especially when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Cream Pink provides a fuller sound experience that is deeper and rounder in tone. While these differences may result in slightly varied typing experiences, users can expect similar qualities in terms of durability and overall sound profile when using either switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the KTT Darling and Outemu Cream Pink switches plays a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience for users. The use of polycarbonate in the Darling's top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon in its bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. In comparison, the Cream Pink's nylon housing throughout provides a consistent depth and roundness to the sound, allowing for a more uniform typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, providing users with options to suit their preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Weight
The KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch have noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The KTT Darling has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Cream Pink's 50 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with less effort. On the other hand, the Darling has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams compared to the Cream Pink's 65 grams, making it less strenuous to press the keys all the way down. This means that the Darling switch provides a lighter and smoother typing experience overall, while the Cream Pink switch offers a more substantial and heavy feel. Those looking for a comfortable and effortless typing experience may prefer the KTT Darling, while those who enjoy a more tactile and robust typing sensation may lean towards the Outemu Cream Pink. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of responsiveness, the Darling may be preferred by gamers for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times. On the other hand, the Cream Pink's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and 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 Cream Pink 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 it comes to sound, the KTT Darling linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched typing experience, producing sharp and resonant sounds with each key press. This sound profile creates an engaging auditory feedback that adds to the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch does not have any specific sound description available, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Darling switch is characterized by its bouncy nature, providing a springy and lively sensation when typing. This bouncy feedback enhances the typing experience by giving a sense of responsiveness and rebound with each keystroke. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Outemu Cream Pink switch is not available, making it challenging to compare the tactile qualities between the two switches.
In conclusion, the KTT Darling linear switch offers a unique typing sensation with its chewy and substantial feel, along with a bouncy and responsive feedback. Its high-pitched and resonant sound profile further adds to the immersive typing experience. While specific details on the Outemu Cream Pink switch are unavailable, based on the available information, it is likely that the Cream Pink may offer similar characteristics to the Darling linear switch, but with its own distinct qualities. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a typing sensation that is chewy, substantial, and bouncy, along with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, then the Darling switch might be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force without any specific sound or feel preferences, the Cream Pink switch could be a suitable choice. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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