KTT Darling vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Darling and the Gateron Quinn are two unique mechanical keyboard switches offering distinct typing experiences. The Darling, a linear switch, provides a chewy and substantial typing sensation, accompanied by a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched sound upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the Quinn, a tactile switch, boasts a crisp and light switch-like tactility with a deep and resonant sound profile. While the Darling is categorized as bouncy, clacky, high-pitched, resonant, the Quinn is described as snappy, bassy, polished, bouncy, clacky, accented, buttery, creamy, low-pitched, resonant. Each switch has its own set of unique qualities that may appeal to different 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
59g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the KTT Darling and the Gateron Quinn switches differ in terms of their characteristics and the resulting sound profiles. The Darling features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to its relatively stiffer nature. This material is also translucent, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Quinn utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer texture that absorbs more sound. Both materials offer distinct sound profiles, with polycarbonate delivering a clearer and resonant sound, while nylon provides a duller and rounder tone.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the KTT Darling and the Gateron Quinn switches incorporate nylon material. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon contributes to a duller and rounder sound, impacting the overall typing experience on both switches. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, the switches may still offer distinct sound characteristics based on the specific design and engineering of each switch.
Overall, the different housing materials used in the KTT Darling and the Gateron Quinn switches contribute to unique sound profiles that cater to varying preferences. While both switches feature nylon bottom housings for a deeper and fuller sound, the choice of polycarbonate for the Darling's top housing results in a sharper and more resonant sound compared to the Quinn's nylon top housing. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile with the Darling or a rounder tone with the Quinn, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience on each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is evident that the Darling is lighter in both aspects compared to the Quinn. The Darling has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Quinn has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. The Darling provides a medium-light typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Quinn offers a medium-heavy feel, which is ideal for individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of the switches play a critical role in determining the typing feel and user experience, with the Darling being lighter and the Quinn being heavier in comparison.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, the Darling has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Quinn's 3.4 mm. While the difference in distance may seem minimal, it can impact the typing or gaming experience for some individuals. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices for those seeking faster response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance offered by both switches. However, if you prefer a more substantial key press that feels less abrupt, opting for the Darling with its slightly longer travel distance may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Darling linear switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant profile, delivering a sharp and bright sound that is both crisp and engaging. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a deeper, bassy sound profile that is rich and immersive, providing a unique auditory experience during typing. While the Darling switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, the Quinn switch is characterized as bassy and resonant. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Darling being more sharp and percussive while the Quinn is deeper and richer.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Darling switch is praised for its bouncy feedback, providing a spring-like and lively typing experience that gives a sense of rebound with each keystroke. In comparison, the Gateron Quinn switch is described as snappy, offering super responsive feedback that makes the typing experience feel alive and dynamic. The Quinn switch also features a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations, with the Darling being bouncy and the Quinn being snappy and polished, catering to different preferences in terms of typing feel.
Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Darling switch provides a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched, resonant sound profile, while the Quinn switch offers a crisp and light tactile bump with a deep, resonant sound thanks to its specially designed nylon housings. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that make them suitable for different preferences in typing experience. Whether you prefer the sharp and engaging feedback of the Darling switch or the rich and immersive sound of the Quinn switch, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a chewy and substantial feel with pronounced bounciness and a high-pitched, clacky sound, the Darling switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisp, light tactility with a deep, resonant sound profile and features like snappiness and a polished finish, the Quinn switch might suit your typing style better. Whether you prioritize the typing sensation, sound profile, or overall feedback of the switch, both options offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience. Choose based on what specific qualities resonate with you the most.
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