KTT Darling vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Darling linear switch to the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is clear that each offers a unique typing experience. The Darling is praised for its chewy and substantial feel, accompanied by a bouncy responsiveness and high-pitched, resonant sound upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the Tom's characteristics are not as well-known, leaving some mystery to its tactile feedback. While the Darling may be preferred for those who enjoy a pronounced bounciness and clacky sound, the Tom's quieter nature may appeal to those seeking a more subtle 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
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Outemu Tom 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 resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. The similarities in the polycarbonate top housing between the two switches mean that users can expect comparable sound profiles and aesthetics when using either switch.
However, the differences between the two switches lie in their bottom housing materials. The Darling utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Tom's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer properties absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This contrast in bottom housing material showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the sound and feel of a switch.
When considering the overall typing experience of the KTT Darling and the Outemu Tom, the split in housing materials between the top and bottom housings plays a crucial role. The bottom housing's material affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material influences the sound when letting go of a key. By understanding the qualities each housing material brings to the switch, users can tailor their typing experience based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The KTT Darling linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Tom tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. The Darling also has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Tom's bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Darling switch for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the Tom switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches are considered to have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Darling switch for its slightly longer travel distance, which provides a bit more depth to the keystrokes. On the other hand, those looking for faster response times may lean towards the Tom switch with its slightly shorter travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a balance between responsiveness and tactile feedback, but the Darling switch is slightly longer in travel compared to the Tom switch.
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 Tom 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 is known for its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant qualities, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience with each keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Tom tactile switch's sound characteristics are unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, it should be noted that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Darling is described as being bouncy, offering a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that adds a lively and responsive feel to typing. Unfortunately, the tactile qualities of the Outemu Tom switch are not specified, making it challenging to evaluate how it compares in terms of tactile feedback.
Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch stands out for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, combined with a pronounced bounciness and a resonant, high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch may offer different tactile and auditory experiences, but without specific information, it is challenging to make a direct comparison. If the Tom switch provides similar characteristics to the Darling switch in terms of sound and feel, users can expect a typing experience that is equally satisfying and engaging. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing sensation. If you enjoy a chewy and substantial feel with a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched, resonant sound, the KTT Darling would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a different feel and sound, such as a tactile feedback that is not available with the Outemu Tom switch, then the Tom switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and the sound profile you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
