KTT Darling vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Darling and TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) present two distinct options to consider. The KTT Darling, a linear switch, is renowned for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2), a tactile switch, offers a medium level of tactility that provides a satisfying resistance when pressed, resulting in a precise and comfortable typing experience. While the Darling is characterized by its bouncy and clacky feel, along with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, the Silent Bluish White (V2) is known for its buttery and muted tactile feedback, designed to be as quiet as possible for office or shared living space use. 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
42g
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
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
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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, which both create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches are ideal for RGB lighting due to the translucency of polycarbonate. However, the Darling employs a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. In contrast, the Silent Bluish White (V2) also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, but the properties of nylon absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a unique typing experience by impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The split between top and bottom housings allows for a balance of qualities in each switch, with the bottom housing influencing the feel during key presses. The top housing, on the other hand, plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. This distinction showcases how the choice of housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Darling and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) housing materials comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics based on their polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings. While the similarities in the polycarbonate top housings create sharp and crisp sound profiles, the differences in the nylon bottom housings result in variations in sound depth and absorption. Whether you prefer a sharper, resonant sound or a deeper, fuller typing experience, both switches provide distinctive qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, it is evident 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, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The Darling is medium-light in terms of force, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) is considered light. The actuation force is the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure needed to fully press the key. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Silent Bluish White (V2) may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the KTT Darling linear switch for its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for typing feel and weight considerations.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Darling linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting the two switches, their travel distance does not serve as a point of difference as they both provide a similar key feel in terms of travel. Whether you choose the Darling or the Silent Bluish White (V2), you can expect to get a consistent tactile response and typing experience with the same travel distance of 3.5 mm.
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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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
Sound is a critical aspect of mechanical keyboard switches, and in this case, the KTT Darling linear switch offers a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile, creating a crisp and engaging auditory experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch is described as muted, providing a softer and quieter typing sound ideal for environments where noise needs to be minimized. Both switches cater to different preferences when it comes to sound, with the Darling delivering a more pronounced and lively sound, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) focuses on a more subtle and muted acoustic experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the KTT Darling is characterized by its bouncy sensation, offering a springy and responsive feedback that enhances the typing experience with a sense of rebound. Conversely, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke experience. The Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch also offers a mild, stepped, subtle, and polished feel, ensuring a gentle and refined typing sensation that is comfortable for extended use. Overall, the Darling excels in providing a bouncy and substantial typing feel, while the Silent Bluish White (V2) delivers a more refined and gentle typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Darling linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Darling provides a clacky and high-pitched sound alongside a bouncy typing sensation, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile and auditory experience. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White (V2) switch focuses on a muted sound profile and a buttery, mild feel that prioritizes smoothness and comfort. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, as both provide unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing sensation, sound profile, and bottom out force. If you enjoy a chewy and substantial typing experience with a bouncy feedback and a high-pitched, resonant sound, the KTT Darling may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a precise and comfortable typing experience with a medium tactility, along with a quiet sound profile perfect for shared environments, the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you find most enjoyable and suitable for your needs.
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