KTT Darling vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Darling and the TTC Yunhai linear switches offer distinctly different experiences that cater to varying typing preferences. The KTT Darling captivates users with its chewy and substantial typing sensation, providing a feeling of sinking into the keys combined with a pronounced bounciness that makes each keystroke springy and responsive. Moreover, the Darling's high-pitched and resonant acoustics deliver a rich auditory feedback, making every bottoming out a unique experience. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switches focus on a lighter actuation force, resulting in a gentle, almost effortless typing feel, complemented by a deep and rounded sound profile that creates a more subdued auditory experience. This combination caters to typists who favor a quieter approach without sacrificing performance. Ultimately, both switches have their merits, appealing to different types of users: the Darling for those who enjoy a more tactile and engaging experience, and the Yunhai for those who prefer a softer touch. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
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
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Darling and the TTC Yunhai switches present a fascinating contrast, particularly evident in the materials used for their top housings. The KTT Darling features a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its stiffness. This rigidity contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it an ideal choice for users who appreciate clarity in their typing experience. In addition, the translucent nature of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal when RGB lighting is incorporated, allowing the colors to shine through more vibrantly. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai utilizes a nylon top housing that delivers a distinctively deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon's softer properties allow for sound absorption, resulting in a rounder sound. This fundamental difference in material inherently positions the Darling as a choice for those seeking brightness in sound and aesthetics, while the Yunhai caters to users preferring a warmer, more subdued auditory experience.
Interestingly, the bottom housing of both the KTT Darling and the TTC Yunhai switches shares an identical material: nylon. This shared element means that both switches deliver similar auditory qualities in terms of deepness and fullness when typing, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound effectively. The result is a duller and rounder sound profile that enhances the typing experience across both switches. This similarity allows users to appreciate a consistent performance in the bottom-out sounds and feels regardless of which switch they choose, creating a common thread in their tactile feedback during use.
Overall, the primary distinction between the KTT Darling and TTC Yunhai resides in their top housing materials, which significantly affect the sound profile during key release. If a user prefers the clear and resonant sound synonymous with polycarbonate, the Darling stands out as the better option. Conversely, those seeking a rounder, softer sound might gravitate toward the Yunhai due to its nylon top housing. However, the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches guarantees that a deeper and fuller sound experience is preserved, showcasing how critical the interplay between housing materials can be in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Darling linear switch to the TTC Yunhai linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Darling features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Yunhai presents a lighter profile with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a more suitable choice for those who prefer less resistance during typing and gaming sessions. This difference in actuation force means that users of the Yunhai will likely experience a softer initial keypress, which can aid in prolonged typing without fatigue. However, the Darling offers a stronger push feel with its higher bottom out force, appealing to users who favor a more substantial tactile experience. Overall, if you prioritize lighter switches for ease of use over extended periods, the TTC Yunhai would be the better choice. Alternatively, the KTT Darling may appeal more to those who enjoy a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Darling linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, there is a slight difference worth noting. The KTT Darling has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Yunhai measures at 3.6 mm. This makes the Darling the shorter option, catering to gamers and users who prefer a more responsive experience due to the shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Yunhai, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress and a hearty depth in their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique benefits depending on personal preference, with the Darling providing a quicker response and the Yunhai delivering a fuller 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 TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Darling linear switch delivers a distinctive auditory experience characterized by a combination of clacky, high-pitched, and resonant tones. This means that every keystroke produces a sharp, crisp sound, pleasurable for those who enjoy a bright auditory feedback while typing. The engaging resonance adds depth to the experience, creating an immersive environment that complements its tactile feedback. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai linear switch is described without any specific sound characteristics. This gap leaves uncertainty regarding its auditory profile, although it is likely to present a distinctly different experience compared to the pronounced characteristics of the Darling.
In terms of feel, the KTT Darling switch stands out with its bouncy and substantial feedback. The elasticity and spring-like sensation provide a rewarding typing experience, making each keystroke feel lively and responsive. This tactile feedback invites typists to enjoy a more engaging interaction with the keyboard. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai linear switch is noted for its incredibly light actuation force without additional descriptors about its tactile characteristics. This suggests a gentler experience, appealing to those who prefer an effortless typing style; however, the specific feel remains largely undiscussed, which may leave some users wanting more clarity.
Overall, both the KTT Darling and TTC Yunhai switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Darling’s clacky, high-pitched auditory feedback and its bouncy tactile sensation are ideal for users looking for an engaging and responsive experience. In contrast, while the Yunhai’s attributes suggest a more understated auditory profile and a lighter, potentially smoother touch, it lacks detailed descriptions for a more nuanced understanding. Evaluating these switches based on personal preferences will be crucial; if sound is a priority, the Darling offers a captivating auditory experience, while those who prioritize a lighter touch might gravitate toward the Yunhai, despite not having as much information on its characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the KTT Darling and the TTC Yunhai linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and desired experience. If you appreciate a medium-light bottom-out force combined with a satisfying, chewy feel and a pronounced bounciness, the KTT Darling would be an excellent fit for you. The engaging auditory feedback of its clacky, resonant sound will enhance the overall typing experience, making it enjoyable for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a gentle, effortless keystroke, the TTC Yunhai is the way to go. Its deep, rounded sound profile adds a sense of mellow comfort that can be particularly appealing during long typing sessions. Ultimately, assessing whether you value an energetic, tactile feel or a more subdued, effortless experience will guide you toward the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
