TTC Flaming Purple vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Laurel mechanical keyboard switches, we see two linear switches each offering unique features. The Flaming Purple stands out for its bassy and resonant sound signature, providing a poppy undertone that adds a touch of flair to every keystroke. With its feathery nature and easy-to-press design, it appeals to both enthusiasts and daily typists looking for swift and effortless typing. On the other hand, the Laurel offers a medium-light feel with a full POM housing for a balance of responsiveness and comfort. Its short travel and long pole design result in a snappy and low-pitched sound profile. Both switches have their strengths, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific typing needs. 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
42g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Laurel both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Flaming Purple's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Laurel's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both materials offer their own advantages - polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a clearer and resonant sound, while POM provides a pleasing and unique sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the auditory experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Flaming Purple's nylon material results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing, due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Laurel's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer similar qualities in terms of sound production, the split between top and bottom housings in a switch can impact the overall feel and sound of typing. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Laurel result in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Flaming Purple's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the Laurel's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound. Both switches utilize materials that contribute to unique and pleasing sound profiles, with nylon and POM bottom housings enhancing the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with polycarbonate or a deeper sound with POM, both switches offer quality housing materials that can enhance your typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is slightly lighter at 42 grams compared to the KTT Laurel linear switch at 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Flaming Purple requires 47 grams while the Laurel requires 50 grams, making the Laurel slightly heavier in this aspect. Both switches can be considered light in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and performance. When it comes to weight preference, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Flaming Purple, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may opt for the Laurel for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Laurel linear switch 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 their faster response times. However, the Flaming Purple offers just a bit more travel distance than the Laurel, which may be preferred by some users who like a slightly deeper key press feeling. Ultimately, both switches will provide similar results in terms of responsiveness, with the Flaming Purple offering a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Laurel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 Flaming Purple switch is characterized by a bassy and resonant profile, providing a richer and deeper sound during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel switch offers a low-pitched sound profile with a mellow tone. While both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, the Flaming Purple leans towards a bassier undertone, while the Laurel maintains a more subdued sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the overall sound profile desired for a keyboard setup.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Flaming Purple switch is praised for its feathery and easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation and providing a silky typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Laurel switch is described as snappy, offering a super responsive typing feel, likely attributed to its longer or dual-staged springs. While both switches offer smooth typing experiences, the Flaming Purple focuses on lightness and effortless typing, while the Laurel emphasizes responsiveness and a crisp keystroke feel. Depending on individual typing preferences, users may lean towards the Flaming Purple for its feather-light touch or the Laurel for its snappy feedback.
Overall, the TTC Flaming Purple and KTT Laurel switches each offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Flaming Purple excels in providing a bassier and resonant sound profile, paired with a feathery and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Laurel offers a low-pitched sound with a snappy and responsive typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound richness and light touch or prefer a low-pitched sound with a snappy feedback during typing sessions. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a quality typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a slightly bassier and resonant sound profile, as well as a feathery and easy-to-press feel, then the Flaming Purple may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a low-pitched sound and a snappy, responsive feel, then the Laurel switch could be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing.
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