KTT Darling vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Darling, a linear switch, and the Cherry Nixie, also a linear switch, are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Darling is celebrated for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, along with a bouncy and springy responsiveness to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Nixie is renowned for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, incorporating updated materials and springs for a blend of tradition and modern innovation. While the Darling provides a high-pitched, clacky sound upon bottoming out, the Nixie offers a lower-pitched thocky sound. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Cherry Nixie both offer unique sound profiles and qualities to their respective switches. The Darling features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. In contrast, the Nixie's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. While the Darling's top housing is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Nixie's top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Darling and the Nixie utilize nylon as the material of choice. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a similarly deep and full sound profile due to the material's softer composition. The absorption properties of nylon in the bottom housing also contribute to a duller and rounder sound overall. Both switches demonstrate how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing, with nylon providing a common foundation for a deep and resonant sound profile in both cases.
When considering switches with different top and bottom housings, the distribution of sound qualities can vary depending on which part of the switch is being engaged. The bottom housing of a switch, such as the nylon bottom housing of both the Darling and the Nixie, has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed. Conversely, the top housing of a switch, like the polycarbonate top housing of the Darling or the nylon top housing of the Nixie, influences the sound produced when releasing a key. This nuanced interplay between top and bottom housing materials underscores the importance of considering the complete construction of a switch in order to achieve the desired sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that the Darling is lighter while the Nixie is heavier. The Darling has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option. In contrast, the Nixie requires a higher actuation force of 63.5 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Darling more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Nixie. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences based on their force requirements, with the Darling providing a lighter touch and the Nixie offering a heavier push feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Darling has a shorter travel distance compared to the Nixie. The Darling's 3.5mm travel distance may be preferred by those who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Nixie's 4mm travel distance may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial key press with a greater sense of depth. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, so choosing between them ultimately depends on individual preferences for keyboard 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 Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.15.
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 is characterized by its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile, offering a crisp and sharp auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a deep, rich tone that resonates through each press. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Darling leaning towards a more percussive and bright sound, while the Nixie delivers a bass-heavy and mellow tone.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the KTT Darling is praised for its bouncy sensation, offering a springy and elastic feedback that enhances the typing experience with a lively feel and rebound effect upon pressing. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie is noted for its textured feel, which introduces noticeable friction during key presses. This texture adds a layer of tactile feedback that may appeal to users who prefer a more distinct sensation when typing.
Overall, the KTT Darling and Cherry Nixie linear switches each bring a unique set of subjective qualities to the table. While the Darling excels in providing a chewy and substantial typing feel with a pronounced bounciness, the Nixie offers a textured typing experience with a rich and satisfying sound profile. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a high-quality typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch are also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used, so experimentation may be necessary to find the perfect match for your typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT Darling linear switch or the Cherry Nixie linear switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force, typing sensation, sound profile, and overall typing experience. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a chewy and substantial typing sensation with pronounced bounciness, and a high-pitched and resonant sound when typing, then the KTT Darling switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force, a substantial heft with a textured typing experience, and a thocky and low-pitched sound when typing, then the Cherry Nixie switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal typing style and the overall feel and sound you desire from your mechanical keyboard. Choose wisely based on what suits you best.
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