KTT Darling vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Darling, a linear switch, and the TTC Silent Brown, a tactile switch. The Darling stands out for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, accompanied by a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Silent Brown offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, all while maintaining a muted sound profile. The Darling is characterized by being 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', and 'Resonant', whereas the Silent Brown is described as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Muted', and 'Polished'. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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 TTC Silent Brown switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
While both the Darling and Silent Brown switches share the same polycarbonate top housing material, they differ in their nylon bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of each switch contributes to the overall sound profile when the key is pressed down, emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound. However, the impact of the top housing material becomes more apparent when the key is released, affecting the sound produced when a key is lifted. Despite these differences in housing materials, both switches offer a balanced sound profile combining the characteristics of the top and bottom housing materials.
In conclusion, the KTT Darling and TTC Silent Brown switches offer a mix of polycarbonate and nylon in their housing materials to create a unique sound profile. While the polycarbonate top housings provide a sharper and crisper sound, the nylon bottom housings contribute to a deeper and fuller sound experience. The differences in the top and bottom housing materials of these switches ultimately affect the sound profile when keys are pressed down and lifted, showcasing how different materials can impact the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Darling has a lighter feel overall. The Darling linear switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, both falling into the medium-light category. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has the same actuation force of 45 grams, but a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy. The Darling provides a smoother and lighter typing experience, perfect for those who prefer less resistance, while the Silent Brown offers a more substantial and tactile feel, ideal for users who enjoy a stronger push when typing. Overall, the decision between the two switches ultimately comes down to individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. While both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, the Darling has a slightly shorter distance compared to the Silent Brown. This means that the Darling may offer a slightly faster response time, which could be preferred by gamers looking for quick reactions. On the other hand, the Silent Brown's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Overall, both switches offer relatively short travel distances, so users can expect similar results in terms of speed and responsiveness.
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 Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched typing experience, with a resonant sound profile that is sharp and engaging. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch provides a muted sound profile, minimizing noise and creating a softer and quieter typing experience. Depending on the user's preference for sound, the Darling offers a more pronounced and lively sound, while the Silent Brown delivers a more subtle and calm typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is known for its bouncy feedback, providing a springy and responsive typing sensation that adds a sense of rebound to each keystroke. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is described as buttery and mild, offering a smooth and gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Silent Brown also boasts a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel for a sleek typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Darling linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Darling provides a more lively and pronounced typing sensation with a clacky and high-pitched sound, complemented by bouncy feedback. On the other hand, the Silent Brown offers a quieter and softer typing experience with a muted sound profile, along with a buttery and polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for sound intensity and tactile feedback. However, both switches are highly regarded in their own right, and users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a chewy and substantial feel with bouncy feedback and a high-pitched, resonant sound, the Darling may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, a satisfying tactile bump, and a muted sound profile, then the Silent Brown could be more suited to your preferences. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so ultimately, the decision comes down to what type of typing experience you value most.
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