KTT Darling vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Darling and the Gateron Type L mechanical keyboard switches, a striking contrast emerges between their unique characteristics. The KTT Darling, a linear switch, offers a satisfyingly bouncy and substantial typing experience, with a pronounced springy responsiveness and high-pitched, resonant sound upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L, also a linear switch, boasts a lighter touch with only 45g required to bottom out, and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. While the Darling provides a clacky and high-pitched typing sensation, the Type L offers a more subdued and feathery feel. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Gateron Type L switches both have their own unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Darling's polycarbonate top housing gives it a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Type L's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. While the polycarbonate top housing of the Darling is ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant sound, the nylon top housing of the Type L offers a more rounded and duller sound.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Darling and the Type L feature nylon as their material of choice. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The use of nylon in the bottom housing allows for a more consistent sound throughout the keystroke, creating a satisfying typing experience for users of both switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Darling and the Gateron Type L will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The Darling's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, perfect for those who prefer a more articulate typing experience. On the other hand, the Type L's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to users who enjoy a more rounded sound profile. Both switches feature nylon bottom housings, ensuring a consistent and satisfying typing experience regardless of the chosen top housing material.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that the Type L is lighter in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The Darling requires 45 grams of actuation force and 53 grams to bottom out, while the Type L only needs 38 grams to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out. The Darling provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Type L offers a lighter touch for those who prefer less resistance when typing. Those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Darling, while those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may opt for the Type L. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Gateron Type L linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Darling switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Type L switch. The Darling switch may provide a slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, which could be preferred by gamers looking for quick input recognition. On the other hand, the Type L switch with its longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying keypress for individuals who prefer a deeper actuation feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the typing experience desired. Both switches provide different options for users seeking their preferred 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 Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70 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 offers a high-pitched and resonant experience that is described as clacky. It produces a sharp and percussive sound when pressed, providing a tactile and auditory feedback that is engaging and satisfying. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch has a more subdued and neutral sound profile. It produces a dampened sound that is not completely silent, providing a more subtle and gentle auditory experience. Sound preference ultimately depends on personal taste and can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Darling linear switch is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like and lively feedback sensation. This gives the keys a sense of rebound when pressed, adding a tactile element to the typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Type L linear switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press. It offers a light actuation force that requires minimal exertion from the fingers, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. This makes it comfortable for gaming, school, or work purposes, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer contrasting experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Darling provides a clacky and bouncy typing sensation with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, while the Type L offers a more subdued and feathery feel with a neutral and easy-to-press sound signature. Depending on personal preference and typing style, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different subjective qualities. Ultimately, trying out both switches on a keyboard setup that suits your preferences will allow you to determine which one better suits your typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider the following guidelines: If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a typing sensation that feels chewy and substantial with a pronounced bounciness, the Darling switch may be the right choice for you. Additionally, if you appreciate a resonant, high-pitched sound profile and a blend of tactile and auditory feedback, the Darling switch could enhance your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and desire a switch with a feathery feel that requires minimal exertion from your fingers, the Type L switch might be more suitable for you. Moreover, if you prefer a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum and a switch that offers gentle resistance during key presses, the Type L switch could provide a comfortable and low-impact typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom out force, typing sensation, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
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