KTT Pine vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Pine and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, it's essential to consider the unique qualities of each option. On one hand, there is the KTT Pine, a linear switch renowned for its medium-heavy feel and buttery smooth keystrokes. The Pine is perfect for those looking for an effortless typing experience with minimal friction, thanks to its factory-lubed finish. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro offers a medium tactility with a light touch and neutral sound signature, making it a Goldilocks option for those seeking a balanced typing experience. While the Pine excels in its smoothness and heaviness, the Violet Gold Pro stands out for its tactile feedback and light 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
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Pine and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the difference comes in the bottom housing material. The Pine has a polycarbonate bottom housing, which further enhances the sharp and clear sound profile. Meanwhile, the Violet Gold Pro's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound.
While both switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the distinction in bottom housing materials sets them apart. The KTT Pine's combination of polycarbonate top and bottom housings creates a consistent sharp and clear sound profile throughout typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro's use of polycarbonate in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing results in a nuanced typing experience. The bottom-out sound and feel are influenced by the softer nylon material, producing a deeper tone, while the release sound is impacted by the polycarbonate top housing, creating a crisper sound when letting go of a key.
In summary, the choice of housing materials in a keyboard switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. The KTT Pine and Dareu Violet Gold Pro showcase how different combinations of polycarbonate and nylon materials can result in distinct sound profiles. While both switches offer unique typing experiences, the polycarbonate top housing in both models ensures a sharper and crisper sound quality, especially when combined with RGB lighting. Whether opting for a consistent sharpness throughout typing with the Pine or a nuanced sound profile with the Violet Gold Pro, understanding the impact of housing materials is key in selecting the right switch for your preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Pine linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, we can see that the actuation force is the same at 45 grams for both switches. However, the bottom out force differs, with the Pine having a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Violet Gold Pro's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Pine switch is heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Violet Gold Pro. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Violet Gold Pro may be more suitable due to the unknown bottom out force, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Pine switch with its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Pine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Pine being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Violet Gold Pro for quicker response times, while those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the Pine switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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.
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 Pine linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches can be influenced by the keyboard configuration and keycaps used, so it's important to consider these factors when looking at sound preferences.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Pine linear switch is known for its buttery and creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation that feels seamless and effortless. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch is described as stepped, providing a tactile response with two distinct stages in the keystroke. While the Pine switch focuses on a silky and glide-like feel, the Violet Gold Pro switch offers a different tactile experience with noticeable pre-travel and post-travel sensations.
Overall, the KTT Pine linear switch and Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch excels in providing a bassy sound and a buttery typing feel, while the Violet Gold Pro switch offers a neutral sound and a stepped tactile experience. Both switches have their own strengths and can deliver a satisfying typing experience based on individual preferences. Whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both, exploring and trying out different switches can help you find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the KTT Pine linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a fairly light touch and a balanced typing experience, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch would be more suitable. Consider the sound and feel profiles of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your preferences and typing style. Ultimately, the decision between the Pine and Violet Gold Pro switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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