KTT Darling vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may come across the KTT Darling, a linear switch, and the Outemu Crystal Brown, a tactile switch. The KTT Darling offers a typing sensation that is chewy and substantial, with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. It delivers a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, providing a satisfying blend of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown is known for its tactile feedback, offering a more pronounced bump when typing. While the Darling is categorized as bouncy, clacky, high-pitched, and resonant, the Crystal Brown is not categorized with any specific attributes. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style; 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
Both the KTT Darling and the Outemu Crystal Brown feature polycarbonate top housings, which give them a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in these housings adds clarity and resonance to the sound of typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. Despite both switches having the same top housing material, the overall typing experience may differ based on other factors such as the bottom housing material.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the KTT Darling and the Outemu Crystal Brown utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite using the same bottom housing material, the unique design and construction of each switch may still produce subtle differences in the typing experience.
The combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the KTT Darling and Outemu Crystal Brown splits the qualities of each housing material between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. While both switches share similar housing materials, the overall typing experience may vary based on the specific design and construction of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Darling has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Crystal Brown has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. In terms of weight, both switches fall into the medium-light category. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel for longer typing sessions, the Darling may be the better choice due to its lower bottom out force. On the other hand, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Crystal Brown would be the preferred option with its slightly heavier bottom out force. In terms of actuation force, both switches offer a similar typing experience, providing consistent results for users.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, the Darling has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Crystal Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Darling offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may offer a more satisfying depth to the key press for some users. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Crystal Brown being closer to the average. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key feel and response time.
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 Crystal Brown 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 is known for its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant qualities. This switch provides a sharp and crisp sound profile that can be quite engaging for users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch's sound characteristics are unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used, so individual experiences may vary.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like and lively feedback sensation. Typing on this switch can feel satisfying and energetic due to the rebound effect it provides with each keystroke. Unfortunately, information regarding the tactile feel of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch is not available. Users who prefer a more tactile typing experience may find the bouncy feel of the Darling switch to be enjoyable and responsive.
In conclusion, the KTT Darling linear switch stands out for its unique combination of chewy and substantial typing sensation, along with a bouncy and springy responsiveness. It also delivers a resonant and high-pitched sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, information about the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch's sound and feel characteristics is currently unknown. Therefore, if a user is seeking a switch with similar qualities to the Darling, they may find it beneficial to explore other linear switches with known characteristics that align with their preferences. It is essential to consider both the sound and feel of a switch to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a chewy and substantial typing sensation with pronounced bounciness and a high-pitched, clacky sound, the Darling may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and a tactile bump without a defined typing experience, the Crystal Brown could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the feel and sound profile that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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