KTT Darling vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Darling and Jwick Taro offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The KTT Darling, a linear switch, provides a satisfyingly chewy and substantial typing sensation, coupled with a bouncy and springy responsiveness to each keystroke. Its high-pitched and resonant sound upon bottoming out adds to the overall tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro, a tactile switch, offers a cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility and crisp clacks. While the Darling is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', and 'Resonant', the Taro is described as 'Neutral', 'Buttery', and 'Stepped'. Deciding between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the KTT Darling and the Jwick Taro utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. The similarities in the top housing materials of these two switches suggest that users can expect a similar sound experience when typing on either the Darling or the Taro.
On the other hand, the Darling and Taro differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Darling opting for nylon while the Taro also uses polycarbonate. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. In contrast, the Taro's polycarbonate bottom housing may not offer the same depth and richness in sound as the nylon bottom housing of the Darling.
The use of different housing materials in the top and bottom of a switch can affect the overall typing experience. The qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, influencing both the sound and feel of the keystrokes. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. As a result, the choice of housing materials in a switch can have a noticeable impact on the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences. The Darling has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Taro, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Darling is also lighter at 53 grams, while the Taro has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. The Darling provides a smooth and effortless typing experience with its medium-light forces, perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. In contrast, the Taro offers a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy forces, ideal for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on whether a lighter or heavier force is preferred for typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. The difference of 0.2mm between the two may not be significant for most users, as both switches provide a relatively similar experience in terms of feel and actuation. In this case, opting for either switch will result in comparable results in terms of travel distance 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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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, high-pitched, and resonant typing experience, creating a sharp and lively sound profile that is engaging and immersive. In contrast, the Jwick Taro tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile, with a moderate level of tactility and crisp clacks that are not overwhelming. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Darling being more vibrant and distinct, while the Taro is more subdued and balanced. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired sound profile for the typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback that adds a lively and elastic sensation to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience that is effortless and uniform. Additionally, the Taro switch is also noted to have a stepped feel, providing a mild tactility with some pre-travel and/or post-travel in the keystroke. While the Darling switch focuses on a bouncy and responsive feel, the Taro switch emphasizes a smooth and consistent typing sensation. Again, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and tactility.
In conclusion, the KTT Darling linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Darling provides a lively, bouncy typing sensation with a clacky and resonant sound, while the Taro offers a smooth, buttery feel with a neutral and crisp sound profile. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of typing experience, with the Darling being more vibrant and responsive, and the Taro focusing on comfort and consistency. Whether you prefer a more tactile and resonant typing experience or a smoother and quieter feel, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, typing sensation, and sound profile. Opt for the Darling if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, along with a chewy and substantial typing experience that is complemented by bouncy responsiveness and a high-pitched, resonant sound. On the other hand, choose the Taro if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a cozy typing experience with snappy tactility, and acute, crisp clacks. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound feedback.
Mentioned in this article
