TTC Iron vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Iron and KTT Purple Star mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. The TTC Iron switch stands out for its pronounced clacky sound signature and buttery smooth travel, making it a satisfying choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switch offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a very light 45g bottom-out, ideal for light typists seeking ease and comfort. Both switches are easy to press, but the Iron switch leans towards a clacky sound, while the Purple Star switch produces a low-pitched, neutral sound. 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
41g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Iron and KTT Purple Star switches are both made of POM, creating a similar sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. This commonality ensures that users can expect a consistent and pleasing sound experience when typing on either switch. However, if the top and bottom housings differ between the two switches, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch, affecting the typing experience in different ways.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Iron and Purple Star switches utilize POM material, which contributes to the sound and feel when bottoming out a key. The impact of the bottom housing material on the typing experience is significant, as it directly influences the deep and muted sound profile that users can expect when pressing down on the keys. This similarity suggests that both switches may offer a similar tactile feedback and typing experience when it comes to bottom-out sound and feel.
On the other hand, the top housing of the switches may differ in terms of the impact on the sound when releasing a key. While both the Iron and Purple Star switches feature POM top housing, the specific design and construction of these housings can vary between the two models. As a result, users may notice slight differences in the sound profile and feel when letting go of a key, depending on the intricacies of the top housing material and design. Despite these potential variations, the overall quality of sound and typing experience provided by the POM top housing remains a common factor between the TTC Iron and KTT Purple Star switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Iron linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 50 grams. However, the Iron switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Purple Star's actuation force of 43 grams. This means that the TTC Iron switch requires slightly less force to trigger a keystroke but ultimately results in the same amount of force needed to fully press the key down. The lighter actuation force of the Iron switch may be preferred by some users for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Purple Star's slightly heavier actuation force may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for users who prioritize quick responsiveness, such as gamers. The Iron switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more substantial feel when typing compared to the Purple Star switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron 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
The TTC Iron linear switch is known for its pronounced clacky sound, giving a sharp, snappy, and percussive audio feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star linear switch offers a more low-pitched and mellow tone, providing a quieter and more bass-heavy typing experience. While the Iron switch offers a more distinctive and energetic sound profile, the Purple Star switch offers a more subtle and soothing sound for those who prefer a quieter typing environment.
In terms of feel, both the TTC Iron and KTT Purple Star linear switches are described as easy-to-press with minimal force required for activation. The Iron switch provides an easy-to-press sensation with gentle resistance that enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Similarly, the Purple Star switch offers a mild typing experience that is approachable and comfortable for most users, making it a suitable choice for extended periods of use. Both switches deliver a responsive and low-impact typing feel, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience.
Overall, while the TTC Iron linear switch stands out for its clacky sound signature and light actuation, the KTT Purple Star linear switch offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a more neutral sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the distinctive tactile feedback of the Iron switch or the quieter and more mellow typing experience of the Purple Star switch. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their respective characteristics, ensuring that users will get similar quality results in terms of performance and comfort.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Iron linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you value a pronounced clacky sound signature with light actuation force for swift typing sessions, the TTC Iron switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound profile and very light 45g bottom-out, the KTT Purple Star switch may be more up your alley. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize sound, feel, and typing comfort in your mechanical keyboard switch selection.
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