Outemu Crystal vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Purple Click. The Crystal switch offers a unique typing experience with its elastic feel and medium-light weight. The keys have a linear movement, allowing for smooth and seamless keystrokes. Additionally, the Crystal switch produces a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch is known for its satisfying high-pitched click. While the keystrokes are light, they still provide enough tactile feedback without being overwhelming. This switch strikes a perfect balance between responsiveness and soothing typing. Both switches have their own distinctive qualities, providing users with various options to suit their 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
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Purple Click, namely polycarbonate and nylon, play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and aesthetic qualities of these switches. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, resulting in a similar sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those planning to incorporate RGB lighting into their setups, making it a practical choice for both switches.
However, the contrasting factor lies in the bottom housing. The Crystal features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the switch's overall clarity and provides a more defined typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Click adopts a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound, which may appeal to users seeking a more muted typing sound.
It's important to note that in switches where the top and bottom housings are different, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom. When pressing down on the switch, the impact and resulting sound will be influenced by the bottom housing, while the sound when releasing the key will be more affected by the top housing. Hence, while the Crystal and Purple Click share a similar sound profile in terms of the top housing, the choice of bottom housing material distinguishes their overall typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, there are some similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Crystal requires 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Purple Click requires a slightly lighter 40 grams. This means that the Purple Click will provide a slightly lighter feel and may be favored by those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, when it comes to bottom out force, both switches require the same 55 grams of force. This means that regardless of the actuation force, both switches will provide a similar level of resistance when pressed all the way down. This can be beneficial for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Crystal is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force but offers the same bottom out force as the Purple Click.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is the same, both measuring 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience a similar travel distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. The two switches offer an equal tactile response in terms of travel distance, ensuring consistent typing experiences for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
The Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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
The Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for its unique, elastic feel and medium-light weight, providing a distinct linear typing experience. The sound profile of these switches is described as chirpy and high-pitched, offering a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. It is important to note that the sound of the Crystal switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. In terms of feel, the Crystal switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined finish that ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is renowned for its signature attribute of a fairly high-pitched and satisfying click. The keystrokes of this switch are light, yet offer a pronounced tactility without being overwhelming, striking a perfect balance. The sound profile of the Purple Click switch is described as crunchy and resonant, resembling the sound of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. Similar to the Crystal switch, the sound produced by the Purple Click can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal switch provides a unique, elastic feel and a neutral sound profile, characterized by chirpy and high-pitched tones. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch delivers a satisfying click sound and light keystrokes with pronounced tactility, accompanied by crunchy and resonant tones. While the Crystal switch offers a polished feel with reduced friction, the Purple Click switch creates an invigorating typing sensation with a moderately firm actuation force. Depending on individual preferences, both switches can provide a rewarding typing experience, albeit with distinct characteristics. It is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen to ensure optimal performance and sound.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a unique, linear typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, the Outemu Crystal linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches have a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a comfortable typing feel. They also offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, if you crave a satisfying click and a pronounced tactile feedback, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is the way to go. With the same bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches offer a light keystroke with a high-pitched, sharp click sound. This creates an immersive typing sensation without being overwhelming. Whether you prefer a sleek and polished typing experience or an invigorating and tactile feel, both switches offer their own unique qualities to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Outemu Crystal and KTT Purple Click switches depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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