KTT Darling vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Darling and the KTT Strawberry are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Darling, a linear switch, features a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. It delivers a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, providing a blend of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Strawberry, also a linear switch, is known for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. With attractive pink and clear housings, it offers a low-pitched, frictionless typing experience that feels silky, buttery, and polished. When choosing between the two switches, one may prefer the chewy and bouncy feel of the Darling or the smooth and polished feel of the Strawberry. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the KTT Strawberry, it is evident that they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. However, while they share this similarity, the Darling's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon material is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that offers a different typing experience.
The use of polycarbonate in both the top housing of the Darling and the Strawberry allows for a clear and resonant sound profile, particularly when combined with RGB lighting. However, the difference in their bottom housing materials leads to varying sound experiences. The Darling's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper sound. This distinction showcases how the choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound profile and typing feel of a switch.
Overall, while the top housing material remains consistent between the KTT Darling and the KTT Strawberry, the difference in their bottom housing materials results in unique sound profiles. The split between the qualities that each housing material brings to the switch can be felt when typing, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This highlights the importance of considering both top and bottom housing materials in the overall design of a switch to achieve desired typing experiences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it is evident that the Darling is lighter in both aspects compared to the Strawberry. The Darling has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Strawberry has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches fall into the medium category in terms of actuation and bottom out force. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Darling, while those who prefer a slightly heavier and more substantial feel to their key presses may opt for the Strawberry. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and comfort level for the user.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Darling switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Strawberry switch. A 0.5 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in how the switch feels when typing. The Darling switch may feel more responsive due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch with its longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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 known for its clacky and high-pitched nature, providing a sharp and resonant typing experience that is engaging and tactile. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is characterized by its low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer distinct auditory feedback, with the Darling delivering a more crisp and bright sound while the Strawberry provides a smoother and more relaxed typing experience. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is recognized for its bouncy feedback, adding a springy and elastic sensation to each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is described as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. While the Darling provides a lively and rebounding feel, the Strawberry focuses on delivering a fluid and seamless typing sensation. Both switches excel in offering unique tactile feedback, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch provides a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched sound profile, appealing to those who enjoy a more tactile and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch offers a smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance with a low-pitched sound profile, catering to individuals seeking a more relaxed and frictionless typing experience. Whether you prefer the lively bounce of the Darling or the silky smoothness of the Strawberry, both switches offer subjective qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a chewy and substantial typing sensation with pronounced bounciness and a high-pitched, clacky sound, the Darling switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, comfortable feel with low-pitched sound and frictionless, silky, buttery, or polished key travel, then the Strawberry switch is worth considering. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard.
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