KTT Darling vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from to cater to individual preferences. The KTT Darling, a linear switch, is renowned for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, coupled with a bouncy responsiveness and a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch offers a distinctively sharp and heavy typing experience with a refreshing clickiness. While the Darling provides a blend of tactile and auditory feedback, the Sage is invigorating and crunchy. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Kailh Sage, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. This means that users can expect similar sound and aesthetic experiences from both the Darling and the Sage when it comes to the top housing material.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The KTT Darling features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, meaning that both switches will offer users a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when it comes to the bottom housing material.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Darling and Sage switches means that users will experience a split in the qualities brought by each material. The bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. This distinction in housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience that combines the best qualities of both polycarbonate and nylon in each switch.
Weight
The KTT Darling linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Kailh Sage clicky switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Darling is 53 grams, while the Sage has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the Darling provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Sage offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Overall, the actuation force and bottom out force of these switches play a significant role in determining the typing experience and feel of each switch.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch both offer relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm option. However, the Darling has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sage has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Darling due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Sage. Both switches offer a unique feel and can cater to different preferences depending on the individual's typing style and needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the user.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Darling linear switch is characterized by a high-pitched, resonant click that provides a crisp and engaging auditory feedback experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch offers a distinct crunchy sound that is associated with clicky switches and is reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. Both switches offer unique sound profiles, with the Darling leaning towards a sharper and more resonant tone compared to the Sage's crunchy click.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is known for its bouncy sensation, providing a springy and responsive feel with each keystroke. In contrast, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a sharp tactile bump that is felt distinctly with every key press. While the Darling switch focuses on a lively and rebounding sensation, the Sage switch provides a more intense and reactive typing experience.
Taking into consideration both the sound and feel characteristics of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is evident that these switches offer distinct typing experiences for users. The Darling switch provides a chewy and substantial feel accompanied by a high-pitched and resonant sound, creating a tactile and auditory blend that is engaging. On the other hand, the Sage switch offers a heavy and sharp clickiness with invigorating feedback and a crunchy sound. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference, with the Darling offering a more bouncy and resonant experience, while the Sage delivers a sharp and invigorating typing sensation.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a more substantial and bouncy typing experience with a high-pitched, resonant sound profile, then the Darling switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with a sharp, crunchy clickiness and invigorating feedback, the Sage switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your individual preferences for a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
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