KTT Darling vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Darling linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it's clear that they offer unique typing experiences to suit different preferences. The KTT Darling provides a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a bouncy and responsive feel to each keystroke, accompanied by a high-pitched, resonant sound upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the Durock T1 offers a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While the Darling is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', and 'High-pitched', the T1 is categorized as 'Stepped', 'Low-pitched', and 'Neutral'. Both switches have their own set of qualities that make them appealing choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the KTT Darling and the Durock T1 feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of the plastic. The use of polycarbonate in these housings also allows for translucency, making them ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Additionally, the clear housing of polycarbonate adds to the aesthetic appeal of the switches, offering a sleek and modern look. Overall, the polycarbonate top housing in both switches provides a distinct sound and visual experience for users.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings in both the KTT Darling and the Durock T1 offer a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which allow it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in material between the top and bottom housings of the switches creates a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in material, both switches offer a distinctive and satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, while the KTT Darling and the Durock T1 have similar polycarbonate top housings that provide a sharp and clear sound profile, they differ in their nylon bottom housings, with the Darling offering a deeper sound compared to the T1. However, both switches effectively showcase the qualities of their respective housing materials, creating a well-rounded typing experience for users. Whether one prefers a crisper sound profile or a fuller sound, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences in typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is clear that the Darling has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the T1's unknown force. However, the bottom out force of the T1 is heavier at 67 grams, while the Darling has a bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that the Darling provides a slightly lighter typing experience overall, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the T1 offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Overall, both switches offer a different feel in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, whereas the Durock T1 tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the T1 has a longer travel distance compared to the Darling. The 4.0mm travel distance of the T1 is more traditional, while the 3.5mm of the Darling falls on the shorter end of the spectrum. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the Darling for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt and may prefer the T1 for its more substantial depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 sound that is quite resonant, providing a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch produces a low-pitched and neutral sound, reminiscent of rain falling on the window. Depending on personal preference, the Darling may be preferred for its sharper, crisper sound profile, while the T1 may appeal to those who enjoy a more mellow and bass-heavy tone.
In regards to feel, the Darling linear switch is praised for its bouncy feedback, offering a spring-like sensation that adds liveliness to each keystroke. In contrast, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as stepped, providing a two-stage tactile feel that is accented and polished for a smooth typing experience. While the Darling may provide a more dynamic and lively feel due to its bounciness, the T1 offers a unique tactile experience with a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle.
Overall, both the KTT Darling linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Darling excels in providing a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness, along with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the T1 offers a super comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window, coupled with a stepped, accented, and polished tactile feel. Depending on whether you prefer a linear or tactile switch, as well as your preferences for sound and feel, you can expect to get similar levels of satisfaction from both switches in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch that offers a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a bouncy and responsive feel, as well as a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, then the KTT Darling would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bump, a rain-like sound profile, and a stepped, accented, and polished feel, then the Durock T1 would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feedback.
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