KTT Darling vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Darling, a linear switch, to the TTC Silent Red, also a linear switch, it's important to note their distinct characteristics. The Darling is known for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, with a bouncy and springy responsiveness to each keystroke. In contrast, the Silent Red offers a smooth and seamless typing experience with a muted sound profile, making it ideal for quiet environments. While the Darling provides a more clacky and high-pitched feedback, the Silent Red is buttery and polished in its feel. Both switches have their unique advantages depending on personal preference and usage scenarios. 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
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the TTC Silent Red, it is evident that 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. Additionally, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting as its translucency allows for a visually appealing display. Despite both switches using the same material for their top housing, the overall sound and feel may differ based on other factors such as the design of the switch.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of both switches is made of nylon, a classic switch housing material. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in material for the bottom housing may contribute to a variance in the typing experience between the KTT Darling and the TTC Silent Red. While both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing may impact the overall sound and feel of each switch.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials in a switch can be felt differently depending on whether they are used for the top or bottom housing. The bottom housing tends to have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience can help users make an informed decision when choosing between switches like the KTT Darling and the TTC Silent Red.
Weight
The KTT Darling linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that the initial force required to trigger a keystroke is identical for both switches. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Darling is lighter at 53 grams compared to the Silent Red at 63.5 grams, making the Silent Red the heavier option. This means that while the actuation force is the same for both switches, the Silent Red requires a heavier force to fully bottom out the key compared to the Darling. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for extended typing sessions, the Darling might be the better choice, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the Silent Red. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the TTC Silent Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the KTT Darling. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different feel when pressing down on the keys. If you prefer a slightly deeper keystroke, the TTC Silent Red may be the better option, while the KTT Darling may provide a more immediate response due to its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on 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 TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 is known for its high-pitched and resonant characteristics, providing a satisfyingly clacky experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch offers a muted sound profile, perfect for environments where noise is a concern. While the Darling emits a sharp and percussive sound, the Silent Red delivers a softer and quieter typing experience, making it ideal for office settings or shared spaces.
In terms of feel, the KTT Darling switch is recognized for its bouncy feedback, giving each keypress a springy and substantial sensation. Conversely, the TTC Silent Red switch is described as buttery and mild, providing a smooth and gentle typing experience that is consistent from top to bottom. The Silent Red switch also offers a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and effortless key travel for maximum comfort during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the KTT Darling linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Darling boasts a clacky and bouncy typing experience with a high-pitched sound, while the Silent Red provides a muted and buttery feel that is smooth and consistent. Depending on personal preference and the intended usage environment, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience with their unique characteristics. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and sound or prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a chewy and substantial feel with bouncy responsiveness and a high-pitched, resonant sound, the KTT Darling may be the switch for you. However, if you prioritize a smooth and seamless typing experience with a muted sound profile suitable for quiet environments, the TTC Silent Red could be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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