KTT Darling vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices are the KTT Darling and the Outemu Silent Green, both linear switches. The KTT Darling is renowned for its unique typing sensation, described as chewy and substantial, with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. In terms of acoustics, the Darling produces a resonant, high-pitched sound when bottoming out, offering a satisfying blend of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green does not have a distinct feature it is known for but is categorized as a linear switch. While both switches have their own advantages, such as the Darling's bounciness and clacky sound, and the Silent Green's silent operation, further exploration will help you determine the best switch for your typing preferences. 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
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Outemu Silent Green, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it an ideal choice for those looking to customize the aesthetics of their keyboard. Where the switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Darling features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate used in the Silent Green's bottom housing.
While the top housings of the KTT Darling and the Outemu Silent Green both use polycarbonate, the bottom housings showcase a distinct contrast. The nylon bottom housing of the Darling creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper and more resonant sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Green. This difference in material contributes to the overall typing experience of each switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when a key is released. Despite these differences, both switches offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
In summary, the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Outemu Silent Green each bring unique characteristics to the switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches results in a similar sharp and clear sound profile, perfect for those seeking a high-pitched typing experience. However, the choice of nylon for the Darling's bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Green. Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in each switch contributes to a personalized typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Darling linear switch to the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally sensitive in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, the Darling has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Silent Green has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Darling is lighter overall, providing a smoother typing experience for those who prefer less resistance. On the other hand, the Silent Green offers a slightly more substantial feel when bottoming out, making it a better choice for users who prefer a bit more resistance while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired weight of the keys.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Silent Green linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Darling offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a good choice for those who prefer quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Silent Green provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who like a more substantial feel when typing. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and responsiveness.
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 Silent 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 is known for its distinct sound profile, with a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound that adds to the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Green switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available, making it difficult to compare in terms of auditory feedback. Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Darling is praised for its bouncy sensation, providing a springy and responsive typing experience that adds a level of enjoyment to each keystroke. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available regarding the tactile feel of the Outemu Silent Green switch. Overall, based on the available information, it is evident that the KTT Darling linear switch offers a unique combination of tactile and auditory feedback, while the Outemu Silent Green switch remains a bit more mysterious in terms of its subjective qualities. Choosing between the two switches would ultimately depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience one is looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a typing sensation that is chewy, substantial, and bouncy with a high-pitched, resonant sound, then the KTT Darling switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for a silent switch option without any specific typing sensation or sound profile preferences, then the Outemu Silent Green switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and bottom out force. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and enhances your overall typing experience.
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