KTT Darling vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Darling and Outemu Green offer unique experiences for users to explore. The Darling, a linear switch, boasts a typing sensation that is described as chewy and substantial, providing a satisfying feel akin to sinking one's fingers into something delightful. Its pronounced bounciness adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke, accompanied by a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the Outemu Green switch lacks a specific standout quality but is known for its traditional clicky feedback. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preferences and typing habits; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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
Both the KTT Darling and the Outemu Green switches feature polycarbonate as the material for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, allowing the lights to shine through the housing. As a result, both switches offer similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits when it comes to their top housing material.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Darling and the Green switches utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. With the bottom housing playing a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, both the Darling and the Green switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of the material used for their bottom housing. The use of nylon ensures a satisfying and tactile typing experience with a unique sound profile.
While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, the KTT Darling and the Outemu Green switches may still have distinct characteristics based on how the qualities of each housing material are distributed throughout the switch. The differing impact of the top and bottom housing on the sound and feel of the switch means that there may be subtle variations between the two switches in terms of typing experience. However, overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing for a clearer sound profile and nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound profile ensures that both switches offer a balanced and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
The KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch have notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Darling has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Green's heavier actuation force of 65 grams. Similarly, the Darling has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Green has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the KTT Darling switch, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Outemu Green switch may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Overall, the varying actuation and bottom out forces of these switches cater to different preferences in typing style and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Green clicky switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Darling's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Green's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth to the key press. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Darling feeling more abrupt and the Green offering a more traditional key press sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
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 Green 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 offers a unique typing experience with its chewy and substantial feel, accompanied by a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. The sound produced by the Darling is high-pitched, clacky, and resonant upon bottoming out, creating a satisfying blend of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch's subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel are unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used. Therefore, while the Darling switch is distinctive in its tactile and auditory qualities, the experience with the Green switch may vary depending on the overall setup. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the KTT Darling linear switch or the Outemu Green clicky switch, you should take into account the typing experience you prefer. If you value a medium-light bottom out force with a chewy and substantial typing sensation, along with a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, then the KTT Darling switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are looking for a sharp and snappy typing sound, the Outemu Green switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in typing feel and sound profile.
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