KTT Cream Yellow vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cream Yellow and the KTT Purple Star stand out as excellent choices for different reasons. The Cream Yellow is praised for its distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, making it a popular option for those who enjoy a tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Purple Star is favored for its buttery smooth typing experience and light 45g bottom-out, perfect for users who prefer a gentler touch and a quieter typing experience. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the KTT Purple Star differ significantly in terms of sound profile. The Cream Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound compared to the Purple Star's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, both switches share a POM bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and pleasing sound profile. This contrast in sound characteristics between the top housings highlights how different materials can influence the overall typing experience.
In addition to sound, the housing materials also play a role in the aesthetic design of the switches. The Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting to create visually appealing effects. In contrast, the Purple Star's POM top housing, while not translucent, still offers a unique and pleasing appearance. Both switches feature a POM bottom housing, which may not have as much impact on aesthetics but contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch. Despite the differences in material, both switches offer a visually attractive design that complements their respective sound profiles.
The choice of housing materials for the top and bottom of a switch can greatly influence the overall typing experience. While the Cream Yellow and Purple Star both offer unique sound profiles with their respective housing materials, the split between top and bottom housings allows for a balance between sharper, crisper tones and deeper, more muted sounds. The tactile feedback and sound when pressing down on the switch are affected by the bottom housing, while the release of the key is influenced by the top housing. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound and feel can help users select a switch that best suits their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the Purple Star is the lighter option. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is considered medium in terms of keyboard switches. On the other hand, the Purple Star boasts a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a more lightweight option. Some users may prefer the Cream Yellow for a slightly more substantial typing experience, while others may lean towards the Purple Star for a smoother and lighter keystroke. In the end, both switches offer different experiences based on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance between the two switches, it is evident that there is no difference as they both offer the same amount of travel for users. This means that whether you choose the Cream Yellow or Purple Star switch, you can expect to feel a consistent 3.5 mm of travel when pressing down on the keys. In terms of travel distance, both switches provide a similar experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is known for its distinctively clacky and sharp sound, providing a crisp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch offers a low-pitched and mellow tone, creating a more calming and bass-heavy sound signature. Depending on personal preference, the Cream Yellow switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more vibrant and lively typing sound, while the Purple Star switch may suit individuals who prefer a quieter and more subdued typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch stands out for its bouncy and spring-like feedback, offering a lively sensation with each key press. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star linear switch is described as providing a mild and easy-to-press typing experience, offering gentle resistance and minimal force required for activation. The Cream Yellow switch may cater to users looking for a more tactile and responsive typing feel, while the Purple Star switch is ideal for those seeking a comfortable and effortless typing experience with light actuation force.
Overall, the KTT Cream Yellow and Purple Star linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Yellow switch excels in providing a clacky sound and bouncy feel, making it a good choice for users who enjoy a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Star switch offers a low-pitched sound and mild, easy-to-press feel, catering to individuals looking for a smoother and gentler typing sensation. Both switches provide different typing experiences, so selecting between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy one, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel with the other.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a clacky and bouncy typing experience with a medium bottom-out force, the Cream Yellow would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and easy-to-press switch with a low-pitched and mild typing sound, the Purple Star would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific qualities that align with your typing style and overall preference for sound and feel.
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