KTT Darling vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Darling, a linear switch, offers a unique typing experience with its chewy and substantial feel, accompanied by a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to keystrokes. Known for its high-pitched and resonant sound upon bottoming out, the Darling provides a satisfying blend of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green is a clicky switch that does not have any standout characteristics mentioned. While the Darling offers a bouncy and clacky typing experience, the Dustproof Green remains a mystery in terms of its key features. When choosing between the two switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you prefer. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Darling and the Outemu Dustproof Green both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in clear housings allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both the Darling and the Dustproof Green feature similar housing materials in terms of polycarbonate and nylon, each switch utilizes these materials in different ways. The split between the top and bottom housings in a switch allows for different sound profiles depending on whether you are pressing down on a key or releasing it. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This split in housing materials allows for a unique typing experience with varying sound profiles throughout key presses.
Overall, the similarities in housing materials between the KTT Darling and the Outemu Dustproof Green provide comparable sound profiles and typing experiences. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing results in a sharp and clear sound, while the nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches benefit from the characteristics of these materials, creating a unique typing experience with a balance of crispness and depth in sound. Whether you prefer a sharper sound or a fuller sound, both switches offer a combination of housing materials that cater to different sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it is evident that they offer different tactile experiences. The Darling has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a medium-light typing sensation. In contrast, the Dustproof Green switch features a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, resulting in a more substantial and tactile typing experience. The difference in forces between the two switches caters to individual preferences, with the Darling being preferred for longer typing sessions due to its lighter touch, while the Dustproof Green is favored by those seeking a more pronounced push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Darling switch the shorter option of the two. The Dustproof Green clicky switch, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Darling switch due to its shorter travel distance. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so selecting the one that best suits your preferences is essential in maximizing your typing or gaming experience.
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 Outemu Dustproof Green comes in at $3.10 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
When comparing the subjective qualities of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, the sound profiles are quite different. The Darling switch is known for its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound, creating a sharp and satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Dustproof Green switch is not available.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Darling switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like and lively sensation when typing. This bounciness adds a unique tactile feel to the typing experience, enhancing the overall satisfaction of using the switch. Unfortunately, details about the feel of the Dustproof Green switch are not provided.
In conclusion, based on the available information, the KTT Darling linear switch stands out for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, paired with a bouncy and responsive feel. The high-pitched and resonant sound further adds to the immersive typing experience. In contrast, less information is available about the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, making it challenging to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, if you enjoy a switch with a satisfying tactile feel and noticeable auditory feedback, the Darling switch may be the ideal choice for you.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a medium-light bottom out force with a chewy and substantial typing sensation, along with a bouncy and springy responsiveness, then the Darling may be the ideal choice for you. Additionally, if you appreciate a high-pitched and resonant sound when typing, the Darling is a great option for auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a sharp and snappy clicky sound, the Dustproof Green may better suit your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preference for tactile and auditory feedback.
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