KTT Darling vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, there are a few key differences to consider. The Darling offers a typing experience that is both chewy and substantial, with a bouncy and springy responsiveness to each keystroke. Its high-pitched and resonant sound upon bottoming out adds to the tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Gold switch lacks a specific standout feature but provides a different typing experience altogether. While the Darling may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced and engaging typing feel, the Gold switch may be preferred by those who prefer a quieter typing experience. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
The housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Outemu Gold both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the nylon bottom housing, both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound overall.
While the polycarbonate top housings of both the KTT Darling and the Outemu Gold contribute to a similar sound profile, the nylon bottom housings bring a distinct difference in sound. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound, with nylon's softer nature absorbing more sound compared to stiffer plastics. This results in a different typing experience and sound profile between the two switches, despite their similarities in top housing material. The split between the bottom and top housing materials allows for a unique blend of qualities in each switch, impacting the typing experience differently.
In terms of sound and feel, the nylon bottom housing of the KTT Darling and the Outemu Gold plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the impact of the top housing material, polycarbonate, is more noticeable when releasing the key, contributing to the overall sound profile. Despite their differences, the use of both polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials of these switches results in a unique typing experience with distinct sound profiles.
Weight
The KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally sensitive to touch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Darling requires 53 grams, which is lighter than the Gold switch's 60 grams. This means that the Darling switch will provide a softer typing experience overall compared to the Gold switch, which offers a slightly more substantial feel. Both switches fall within the medium-light to medium range, catering to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or those who enjoy a bit more resistance for a satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is clear that the Darling has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Gold's 4 mm. The Darling's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the Gold's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth to key presses. Both switches fall within the realm of traditional travel distances, with 4.0mm being the most common choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for responsiveness and key press feel.
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 Gold 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
The KTT Darling linear switch is renowned for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, offering a satisfying feeling akin to sinking one's fingers into something plush. The switch also features a pronounced bounciness, giving each keystroke a springy responsiveness. Acoustically, the Darling produces a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, providing a tactile and auditory experience. In contrast, the Outemu Gold clicky switch does not have any specific descriptions available for its sound or feel. However, based on the information provided about the Darling, if you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound with bouncy feedback, the Darling would be a suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference for sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
Therefore, when considering whether to choose the KTT Darling linear switch or the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is important to take into account your preferences for typing sensation and sound profile. If you appreciate a chewy and substantial typing experience with a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, the KTT Darling linear switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with medium bottom out force and a clicky sound profile, the Outemu Gold clicky switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound feedback.
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