KTT Darling vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch that suits your preference, the KTT Darling and the Outemu Dustproof Blue offer unique qualities to consider. The KTT Darling, a linear switch, boasts a typing sensation that is both chewy and substantial, providing a satisfying tactile experience with every keystroke. Its pronounced bounciness adds a springy responsiveness, while delivering a resonant, high-pitched sound that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue, a clicky switch, may lack specific standout features but provides a traditional clicky typing feel. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you crave. 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
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
The KTT Darling and the Outemu Dustproof Blue both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances resonance and clarity in the sound produced by the switch. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, despite both switches sharing this feature, the overall sound and feel may still differ based on other factors such as the bottom housing material.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Darling and Dustproof Blue opt for nylon, a material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and more muted sound when typing on switches that use this material. While both switches benefit from the qualities of nylon in their bottom housing, the impact of this material may be more noticeable in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch rather than in the key release sound.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the KTT Darling and the Outemu Dustproof Blue greatly influences the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the distribution of these materials can result in different overall feel and sound characteristics. The stiffer polycarbonate in the top housing contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound upon key release, while the softer nylon in the bottom housing enhances the depth and fullness of the typing sound. Ultimately, the combination of these materials results in unique typing experiences for users of each switch.
Weight
The actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch differ in weight, with the Darling being lighter and the Dustproof Blue being heavier. The Darling requires 45 grams of force to actuate and 53 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-light switch. In comparison, the Dustproof Blue needs 50 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, categorizing it as medium-heavy. The lighter actuation force of the Darling may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier actuation force of the Dustproof Blue offers a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The comparison between the travel distance of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch reveals that the Darling has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dustproof Blue has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Darling's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers, while the Dustproof Blue's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the user. Additionally, having a 3.5 mm travel distance versus a 4 mm travel distance will produce slightly different typing experiences, with the shorter travel distance feeling slightly quicker and the longer travel distance feeling more deliberate in comparison.
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 Dustproof 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
In comparing the subjective qualities of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, the sound produced by the Darling is characterized as clacky, high-pitched, and resonant, offering a crisp and sharp auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Dustproof Blue switch remains unknown. Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Darling is noted for its bouncy sensation, providing a springy and lively feedback upon pressing the keys. Unfortunately, the feel of the Dustproof Blue switch is undisclosed.
Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch excels in delivering a chewy and substantial typing experience with a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched, resonant sound. In contrast, information on the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is lacking, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison between the two. However, it is important to consider that individual preferences play a significant role in determining the ideal switch for each user. Ultimately, both switches may offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a satisfying and personalized mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Darling linear switch or the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a medium-light bottom out force and a typing sensation that is chewy, substantial, and bouncy, with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, then the KTT Darling switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clicky switch that offers a sharp and crisp typing experience, with no specific sound or feel descriptions provided, then the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch may be more suitable for you. Consider how you like your switches to feel and sound, and make your decision based on what will enhance your typing experience the most. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities, so choose the one that aligns with your preferences.
Mentioned in this article
