Kailh Berry vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch to the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is clear that each offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Berry switches are known for their hefty typing experience, springy feel, and chalk-like texture, creating a deep sound profile categorized as 'Textured', 'Low-pitched', 'Bassy'. On the other hand, the Purple Star switches boast an all-POM construction that provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature. With a very light 45g bottom-out, they are perfect for light typists seeking ease and comfort, categorized as 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Easy-to-press'. 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
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and KTT Purple Star switches both offer unique sound profiles based on their respective housing materials. The Berry's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, perfect for those looking for a more crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Star's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, catering to those who prefer a softer sound profile. While the top housings differ in sound characteristics, both switches offer a translucent housing suitable for RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal to any keyboard setup.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Berry's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile, ideal for users who appreciate a more mellow typing experience. Similarly, the Purple Star's POM bottom housing also offers a deep and muted sound, complementing the top housing's characteristics. Despite the differences in materials, both switches aim to deliver a unique typing sound that caters to various preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
When considering a switch with different top and bottom housing materials, it's important to note how each material influences the typing experience. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing impacts the sound produced when releasing the key. While the Berry and Purple Star switches may have contrasting housing materials, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound profiles. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, muted tone, both switches offer something unique for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts to enjoy.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch to the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Berry switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it unclear how much force is needed to trigger a keystroke, while its bottom out force is 70 grams, which is medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Purple Star switch has an actuation force of 43 grams, providing a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke, and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is relatively light. This makes the Purple Star switch lighter overall, allowing for longer typing periods without fatigue. Conversely, the Berry switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces, as well as the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch both offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches. The Berry has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Purple Star has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for faster response times. If you prefer a switch with a quicker actuation, the Purple Star may be the preferable choice. However, if you enjoy a bit more key travel for a more deliberate feel, the Berry may be more suited to your preference. Ultimately, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer similar results and will provide a satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25, whereas the KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88.
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 Kailh Berry linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy tone, providing a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch also has a low-pitched sound signature, contributing to a more mellow tone overall. Both switches provide a pleasant typing experience in terms of sound, with the Berry offering a slightly more bass-heavy sound compared to the Purple Star.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is known for its textured typing experience, which may appeal to users who prefer a bit of friction when pressing down the keys. On the contrary, the KTT Purple Star linear switch offers a mild and easy-to-press typing experience, with a buttery smooth feel and light actuation force of 45g. The Berry switch's springy and chalk-like texture contrasts with the smooth and gentle feel of the Purple Star, catering to different preferences for typing feedback.
Overall, both the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch provide distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a deeper and bass-heavy sound profile with a textured typing experience, the Berry switch may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more neutral sound signature and a buttery smooth typing feel with easy-to-press keys, the Purple Star switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a springy feel and chalk-like texture, as well as a deep sound profile, the Berry switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light typing experience with a buttery smooth feel, all-POM construction, and a neutral sound signature, along with an easy-to-press and low-impact typing feel, then the Purple Star switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and what characteristics matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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