KTT Darling vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Darling and KTT Purple Star are two mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Darling, a linear switch, offers a unique typing sensation that is both chewy and substantial, paired with a bouncy responsiveness and a high-pitched, resonant sound upon bottoming out. In contrast, the Purple Star, also a linear switch, provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a light 45g bottom-out and a neutral sound signature. While the Darling is best suited for those who value a tactile and auditory feedback, the Purple Star is ideal for light typists seeking ease and comfort. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Darling and the KTT Purple Star both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Darling utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the Purple Star's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer different acoustic experiences, they both serve their purpose in enhancing the overall typing sound of the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Darling utilizes nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Purple Star features a POM bottom housing, contributing to its unique sound profile that is deep and relatively muted. Despite the differences in material, both the Darling and the Purple Star offer a satisfying typing experience with their bottom housings enhancing the overall sound output of the switches.
Although the top and bottom housing materials vary between the KTT Darling and the KTT Purple Star, both switches offer a pleasant and unique typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings allow for a diverse sound profile when typing on these switches. The impact of the bottom housing is more prominent during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of the Darling's polycarbonate housing or the deeper and more muted sound of the Purple Star's POM housing, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that contribute to an enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is clear that the Darling is slightly heavier in both categories. The Darling has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Purple Star has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter switch overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Purple Star would be the ideal choice, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance, the Darling would be the better option. In both cases, users can expect smooth linear action with a satisfying typing feel, but the slight variance in force requirements may cater to different preferences in terms of typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Darling linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the travel distance of the KTT Purple Star linear switch is also 3.5 mm. This means that both switches have the same travel distance, resulting in a similar feel when pressing down on a key. The compact 3.5 mm travel distance of both switches allows for quick and precise keystrokes, making them ideal for fast typists or gamers. Overall, both the Darling and the Purple Star provide a consistent typing experience with a balanced travel distance, making them suitable options for those who prioritize key feel and responsiveness in their mechanical keyboards.
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 Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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 clacky, high-pitched, and resonant typing experience, emitting a sharp and crisp sound that can be engaging and immersive. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch produces a low-pitched sound, which tends to be more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. The sound profile of each switch is influenced not only by the switch itself but also by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, users of the KTT Darling linear switch can expect a bouncy typing sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that adds liveliness to each keystroke. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star linear switch offers a mild and easy-to-press typing experience, with gentle resistance and a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable for extended periods. Both switches provide distinct feelings under the fingers, catering to different preferences in terms of tactile feedback.
Taking into consideration the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the KTT Darling linear switch offers a more tactile and audibly engaging typing experience with its chewy, substantial feel and resonant, high-pitched sound. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch provides a smoother and lighter typing experience, characterized by its buttery smoothness and low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference, with each offering unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you enjoy a typing sensation that is chewy, substantial, and bouncy, with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, the Darling switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature, along with a very light bottom-out force for easy and comfortable typing, the Purple Star switch would be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the tactile and auditory feedback of the Darling or the smooth and gentle typing experience of the Purple Star. Choose wisely based on what suits your typing style best.
Mentioned in this article
