KTT Darling vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Darling and the Outemu Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that they both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Darling, a linear switch, is praised for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, accompanied by a bouncy and springy responsiveness with each keystroke. Additionally, the Darling produces a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, delivering a satisfying blend of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus, also a linear switch, does not have any standout characteristics mentioned. If you're looking for a switch that provides a bouncy, clacky, high-pitched, and resonant typing experience, the Darling could be the ideal choice for you. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Outemu Lotus, it is evident that they both feature nylon as the bottom housing material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. However, the Darling utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which results in a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Lotus's nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound to create a duller and rounder sound. Despite the differences in top housing materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience with the nylon bottom housing providing a consistent deep and full sound.
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Darling switch provides a more resonant and clear sound profile, while the Lotus's nylon top housing absorbs more sound for a duller sound quality. On the other hand, both switches feature nylon as the bottom housing material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This split in housing materials impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer a unique typing experience with their distinctive sound profiles.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Darling and the Outemu Lotus will depend on the sound profile that the user prefers. The Darling offers a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing, while the Lotus provides a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon housing. Both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, ensuring a consistent typing experience with a deep and full sound. Ultimately, the preference for a sharper or duller sound profile will determine which switch is better suited for the user's typing needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it is evident that the Lotus is the lighter of the two. The Darling has a medium-light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Darling requires a slightly heavier touch to initiate a keystroke compared to the Lotus. The actuation force on both switches indicates how much pressure is needed to trigger a key, while the bottom out force measures the force required to press the key all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, the Lotus may be the preferred choice, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Darling. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Lotus switch slightly quicker in terms of key press response compared to the Darling switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Lotus switch due to its shorter travel distance. However, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may find the Darling switch to be more satisfying. Overall, both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to traditional switches, catering to the preference of users who prioritize speed and efficiency in their 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 Lotus 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 unique experience with its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant qualities. Each keystroke produces a sharp and crisp sound that is both satisfying and engaging. On the other hand, there is no available information on the sound profile of the Outemu Lotus linear switch. To achieve a similar result in sound, one might expect a more muted or softer sound compared to the Darling, but this is purely speculative without concrete data on the Lotus switch.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Darling is praised for its bouncy feedback, providing a springy and elastic sensation with each keypress. This adds a dynamic and lively feel to typing on the switch. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the tactile experience of the Outemu Lotus linear switch. Without concrete details, it is difficult to draw a direct comparison in terms of feel between the two switches.
In conclusion, the KTT Darling linear switch stands out for its distinctive sound profile and bouncy feel, offering users a tactile and auditory experience that is both satisfying and responsive. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus linear switch lacks specific information regarding its sound and feel characteristics, making it challenging to directly compare to the Darling. Ultimately, without concrete details on the Lotus switch, it is recommended for users to conduct further research or seek hands-on experience to fully understand its subjective qualities compared to the KTT Darling.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. If you enjoy a medium-light bottom out force with a chewy and substantial typing sensation, accompanied by a bouncy and springy responsiveness, the Darling may be the ideal choice for you. Additionally, if you appreciate a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile while typing, the Darling can provide an engaging auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and are looking for a switch with specific sound or feel characteristics, the Lotus may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to your personal typing style and preferences.
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