TTC Brother vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the TTC Brother, a clicky switch, and the KTT Purple Star, a linear switch. The TTC Brother is renowned for its clicky feel, featuring a lightweight actuation force of 37g that provides a satisfying tactile experience without being burdensome. It offers a crunchy sound signature that delights enthusiasts and a tactile bump that strikes a perfect balance between feedback and subtlety. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star is known for its buttery smooth typing experience with an all-POM construction and a very light 45g bottom-out force, making it perfect for light typists seeking ease and comfort. While the Brother is categorized as 'Crunchy', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Stepped', the Purple Star falls under 'Mild', 'Low-pitched,' and 'Easy-to-press' categories. 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
37g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Brother and the KTT Purple Star switches offer unique sound profiles based on their composition. The Brother's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while the Purple Star's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. These differences in sound profile can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users, with the polycarbonate top housing of the Brother offering a more resonant sound compared to the POM top housing of the Purple Star.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Brother utilizes a nylon housing which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer and more sound-absorbing nature. Conversely, the Purple Star also utilizes POM for its bottom housing, continuing the trend of a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both switches use different materials for their top and bottom housing, the overall sound experience is influenced by a combination of these differing materials.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the TTC Brother and KTT Purple Star switches, both provide users with unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience. The choice between polycarbonate and POM for the top housing, as well as between nylon and POM for the bottom housing, allows users to customize their switch based on their preference for sound and feel. Whether opting for the sharper sound of polycarbonate in the Brother or the deeper sound of POM in the Purple Star, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force differ between the two. The Brother switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Purple Star's 43 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, the bottom out force of the Purple Star at 50 grams is heavier compared to the Brother switch, for which the bottom out force is unknown. The difference in actuation force may result in a faster typing experience with the Brother switch, while the heavier bottom out force of the Purple Star may provide a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on whether one prefers a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions or a heavier bottom out force for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch are both 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key that uses either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. The identical travel distance ensures that the typing experience will be consistent between the two switches, as the keypress will feel the same regardless of which switch is being used. Both switches offer a standard travel distance that is neither longer nor shorter than the other, allowing typists to achieve similar results in terms of key feel and performance with either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
The KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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 TTC Brother clicky switch offers a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch provides a low-pitched and mellow tone, creating a more subtle auditory experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Brother appealing to those who enjoy a pronounced click and the Purple Star appealing to those who prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch boasts an easy-to-press design, requiring minimal force for activation. The tactile bump is present enough to provide feedback without being overwhelming, offering a responsive and low-impact typing feel. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star linear switch provides a mild typing experience with gentle resistance, suitable for those who prefer a more approachable and easy-going switch. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by providing comfort and ease of use, catering to a wide range of typing preferences.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Brother excels in delivering a crisp and crunchy sound with easy actuation, the Purple Star focuses on a smoother, low-pitched tone and mild typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference in sound and feel, with both switches providing quality performance in their respective categories. Those looking for a more pronounced click may lean towards the Brother, while those seeking a quieter and smoother typing experience may prefer the Purple Star. Ultimately, both switches offer top-notch quality and performance for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it really comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a satisfyingly crunchy and tactile typing experience with a light actuation force, then the Brother clicky switch would be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth and light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, then the Purple Star linear switch would be more suited to your liking. Consider factors such as the type of feedback you prefer, the sound profile that appeals to you, and the level of actuation force that feels comfortable for your typing needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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