KTT Lightning vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Lightning and Dareu Violet Gold Pro are two popular mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics. The Lightning is a linear switch, known for its fast and responsive feel, making it perfect for gamers looking for quick key presses. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro is a tactile switch, offering a moderate level of feedback and a light touch that is well-suited for typists seeking a balanced typing experience. The Lightning is praised for its 'clacky' and high-pitched sound profile, while the Violet Gold Pro is described as having a 'stepped' and neutral sound signature. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and use cases. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it resonate more clearly. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is ideal for RGB lighting effects, as its translucency allows light to shine through. In terms of sound, both switches will deliver similar results with their polycarbonate top housing, creating an enhanced auditory experience for users.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the KTT Lightning features nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. Similarly, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, ensuring a consistent sound experience with a focus on depth and richness. Despite the difference in bottom housing material, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the importance of material choice in sound production.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note how the qualities of each material are distributed throughout the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housing contributes to the overall typing experience, allowing users to enjoy a combination of crispness and depth in sound output. Ultimately, both the KTT Lightning and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro showcase the importance of housing materials in creating a unique and immersive typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is clear that the Lightning switch is lighter overall. The Lightning switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Violet Gold Pro switch has an actuation force of 45 grams with an unknown bottom out force. Both switches have similar actuation forces, but the Lightning switch requires slightly less force to bottom out. This makes the Lightning switch ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. In contrast, the Violet Gold Pro switch may offer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, although the exact force required to bottom out is not specified. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch is 3 mm, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Violet Gold Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lightning switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Lightning switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more deliberate key press may opt for the Violet Gold Pro. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
The KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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 Lightning linear switch offers a sharp and snappy "clacky" sound that adds a satisfying acoustic element to typing. It also has a high-pitched sound profile, contributing to its overall crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch provides a neutral sound signature, which is ideal for those looking for a balanced and versatile typing sound. The neutral sound profile of the Violet Gold Pro makes it suitable for various environments, whether it be in a professional setting or at home. Both switches present distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Lightning switch leaning towards a more pronounced and dynamic auditory feedback compared to the more reserved sound of the Violet Gold Pro.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the KTT Lightning linear switch offers a subtle typing experience with a gentle resistance, providing a light but tactile feedback for each keystroke. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing feel that enhances overall typing comfort. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offers a stepped tactile feel, providing a mild two-stage typing experience with discernible pre-travel and post-travel sensations. The tactile feedback of the Violet Gold Pro is moderate, striking a balance between a soft touch and a noticeable tactile bump. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations that cater to different preferences, with the Lightning switch focusing on a smoother and subtle typing feel while the Violet Gold Pro provides a more structured and tactile typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lightning switch excels in providing a sharp and clacky sound with a subtle and polished typing feel, ideal for those looking for a dynamic auditory experience and a smooth typing sensation. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switch offers a neutral sound profile and a stepped tactile feel, appealing to individuals seeking a balanced typing sound and a structured tactile feedback. Regardless of the choice between the two switches, both options guarantee a satisfying typing experience tailored to personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize speed and a slick typing feel with a clacky sound profile, the Lightning switch may be the perfect choice for you, especially in scenarios where quick actions can make a difference. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium tactility with a light touch and a balanced typing experience, the Violet Gold Pro switch could be the ideal "Goldilocks" option for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Lightning switch with its clacky and high-pitched characteristics might be more to your liking. Conversely, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile, the Violet Gold Pro switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and suits your typing style best.
Mentioned in this article
