KTT Darling vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Darling, a linear switch, and the Gazzew U4, a tactile switch, distinct differences can be noted in their typing experience. The Darling offers a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a bouncy and springy responsiveness, resulting in a high-pitched and resonant sound upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the U4 provides a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation and a whisper-quiet sound profile. Each switch caters to different preferences - the Darling for those who enjoy a clacky and high-pitched typing experience, and the U4 for those who prefer a muted and low-pitched 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Gazzew U4, we see that both switches prioritize sound profile but achieve it through slightly different means. The Darling utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. On the other hand, the U4 employs a proprietary Gazzew blend for its top housing, which delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to the softness of the material. While the Darling's polycarbonate top housing offers a more clear and resonant sound, the U4's Gazzew blend top housing provides a rounder and fuller sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Darling features a nylon material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness. This allows for a more absorbing and dulling of sound compared to the harder plastics used in other switches. Similarly, the U4 also utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend for the bottom housing, resulting in a rich and deep sound profile that complements the top housing's characteristics. Both switches prioritize achieving a satisfying sound profile through their choice of materials for both top and bottom housings.
Overall, while the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Gazzew U4 differ slightly in terms of their specific properties, both switches aim to provide a high-quality sound experience for keyboard enthusiasts. The use of polycarbonate in the Darling's top housing creates a different sound profile compared to the proprietary Gazzew blend used in the U4, but both materials offer unique advantages in terms of sound resonance and quality. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound like the Darling or a rich, deep sound like the U4, both switches ensure a premium typing experience with their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is the same at 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Darling requires 53 grams while the U4 needs 62 grams. This means that the Darling is lighter in terms of bottom out force, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the U4 is heavier and provides a more substantial push feel, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a bit more resistance while typing. Both switches offer a similar actuation force, so if that is the main concern, then users can expect similar results from either switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for typing feel and keypress resistance.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Darling being slightly shorter than the U4. Gamers looking for faster response times may lean towards the Darling due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer more depth and a less abrupt feeling may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the U4. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches and can provide similar results in terms of key feel 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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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 clacky and high-pitched typing experience, with a resonant and engaging sound profile that provides a tactile and auditory feedback blend. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is characterized by a muted and low-pitched sound, offering a whisper-quiet typing experience. Depending on personal preference, the Darling switch delivers a sharper and more percussive sound, while the U4 switch provides a softer and more mellow tone. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences that can be customized further by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Darling switch provides a bouncy typing sensation, adding a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. This bounciness gives the keys a lively feel, providing a rebound effect when pressed. Conversely, the Gazzew U4 switch offers a sharp tactile bump, with high feedback intensity that is distinct and prominent with each keypress. The U4 switch delivers a more intense tactile feedback compared to the Darling switch, offering a sharp and exhilarating typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Darling switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound with a bouncy typing sensation, while the U4 switch offers a muted and low-pitched sound with a sharp tactile bump. Based on personal preference for sound and typing feel, users can choose between the more resonant and engaging Darling switch or the whisper-quiet and intense tactile feedback of the U4 switch. Each switch provides a different typing experience that can be further enhanced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when considering whether to choose the KTT Darling linear switch or the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it really comes down to your personal preferences. If you enjoy a typing experience that is chewy, substantial, and bouncy, with a high-pitched, resonant sound profile, then the Darling may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp, exhilarating tactile bump with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation and a whisper-quiet sound profile, then the U4 may be more up your alley. Consider what kind of typing feel and sound you prefer, and let that guide your decision between these two fantastic switches.
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