TTC Flaming Purple vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Purple Star mechanical keyboard switches, you have two linear switch options to consider. The Flaming Purple is distinguished by its resonant character and slightly bassier sound signature, providing an engaging auditory experience with a bottom-out force of just 47g. On the other hand, the Purple Star offers a buttery smooth typing feel with an all-POM construction and a very light 45g bottom-out force, making it a comfortable choice for light typists. Both switches are categorized as easy-to-press and low-pitched, but the Flaming Purple leans towards a feathery and bassier feel, while the Purple Star offers a milder and smoother experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference and typing style, but 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
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Purple Star, it's clear that they both offer unique sound profiles based on the materials used. The Flaming Purple features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more defined typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Star's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, appealing to those who prefer a softer typing sound. Despite these differences, both housings offer a pleasing typing experience, showcasing the versatility of different materials in switch design.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Flaming Purple utilizes nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a more rounded typing experience. Similarly, the Purple Star's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile, emphasizing the unique typing experience provided by this material. While there may be differences in the specific qualities each material brings to the switch, both housings offer a satisfying sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience for users.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Purple Star ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The Flaming Purple's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings offers a sharper and fuller typing sound, while the Purple Star's POM housings provide a deeper and more muted typing experience. Regardless of which switch you choose, both options showcase the impact that housing materials can have on sound profiles, demonstrating the importance of material selection in custom keyboard design.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch to the KTT Purple Star linear switch, the difference in actuation force is minimal, with the Flaming Purple requiring 42 grams compared to the Purple Star's 43 grams. Both switches have relatively light actuation forces, making them ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Flaming Purple requires 47 grams compared to the Purple Star's 50 grams. This means that the Purple Star has a slightly heavier bottom out force, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Overall, while both switches offer a light actuation force, individuals looking for a slightly heavier bottom out force may prefer the KTT Purple Star linear switch.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the KTT Purple Star linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While the difference between the two distances may seem negligible, it can have an impact on the overall feel and responsiveness of the keyboard keys. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Purple Star switch for faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Flaming Purple switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to the user.
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 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 Flaming Purple linear switch offers a bassy and slightly resonant experience, providing a poppy undertone to each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound, offering a more mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Depending on personal preference and the accompanying keyboard and keycaps, users can choose between the deeper bass notes of the Flaming Purple or the smoother, lighter tones of the Purple Star.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the TTC Flaming Purple is described as feathery and easy-to-press, providing a light and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star offers a mild and easy-to-press sensation, catering to users who prefer a gentler typing experience. Both switches aim to reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, with the Flaming Purple offering a silky typing feel and the Purple Star presenting a more approachable and middle-ground option for typists.
In conclusion, both the TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Purple Star linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Flaming Purple leans towards a bassier and resonant sound profile with a feathery typing experience, the Purple Star provides a smoother and lighter sound with a mild and easy-to-press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing sensation. Nevertheless, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Flaming Purple and the KTT Purple Star linear switches, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a bassier and resonant sound profile with a feathery and easy-to-press typing experience, then the TTC Flaming Purple may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched sound and a mild, easy-to-press typing feel, the KTT Purple Star switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer a light bottom-out force and smooth typing experience, so it's important to consider what sound and feel characteristics align best with your typing style and preferences.
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