KTT Darling vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Darling and KTT Phalaenopsis are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences for different preferences. The Darling, a linear switch, is celebrated for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, accompanied by a bouncy and springy responsiveness with each keystroke. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis, a tactile switch, boasts a light actuation force of 37g and a discernible tactile bump at 50g, providing effortless typing and a satisfying tactile feedback. While the Darling delivers a high-pitched, resonant sound upon bottoming out, the Phalaenopsis offers a bassy and thocky typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and benefits, catering to different typing styles and 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
37g
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
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Darling and the KTT Phalaenopsis both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances resonance and clarity in the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, the Darling features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, emphasizing its stiffness for a more clear and resonant sound.
Despite both switches using polycarbonate for the top housing, the difference in bottom housing materials impacts the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch. The nylon bottom housing of the Darling contributes to a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis maintains the sharper and crisper sound profile associated with the material. This split in housing materials underscores the importance of considering how the top and bottom components of a switch interact to create the desired typing experience.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical keyboards, such as the KTT Darling and the KTT Phalaenopsis, plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of typing on these switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile, the difference in bottom housing materials results in distinct characteristics in the typing experience. Whether opting for a softer nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound or a stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing for enhanced clarity, understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance is essential for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a specific typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch differ in weight, with the Darling being the heavier option. The Darling has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Phalaenopsis has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The Darling provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Phalaenopsis offers a lighter touch. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may find the Darling more suitable, while those looking for a lighter touch may prefer the Phalaenopsis. Both switches offer a smooth keystroke activation and bottoming out process, ensuring a consistent typing experience overall.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Darling has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Phalaenopsis. The Darling would be a good choice for those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers who prefer shorter travel distances. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis with its longer travel distance may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press feel. Both switches offer different experiences due to their travel distances, catering to individuals with varying preferences.
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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 clacky, high-pitched, and resonant experience, creating a sharp and crisp sound that can be quite engaging. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch produces a bassy and thocky sound, offering a deeper and richer acoustic profile during key presses. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the distinct sound profiles of these two switches to suit their typing style and environment.
In terms of feel, the KTT Darling linear switch provides a bouncy sensation, giving users a springy and responsive feedback with each keystroke, making typing a delightful and lively experience. Conversely, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a stepped feel, providing a more nuanced tactile feedback with two stages in the keystroke process, allowing users to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel for a different typing experience.
Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Darling excels in providing a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched sound, the Phalaenopsis offers effortless typing with a light actuation force and a satisfying tactile bump accompanied by a bassy and thocky sound. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and sound aesthetics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a chewy and substantial typing sensation with bouncy and responsive feedback, along with a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, the Darling linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer effortless typing with minimal finger fatigue, along with a discernible tactile bump and a bassy and thocky sound profile, the Phalaenopsis tactile switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
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