Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the KTT Purple Star mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Keygeek Raw stands out for its blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon materials, resulting in a delightfully creamy yet lightweight feel. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star is praised for its all-POM construction, providing a buttery smooth typing experience with a light 45g bottom-out ideal for light typists. While the Keygeek Raw offers a slightly textured feel right out of the box and is a great starting point for enthusiasts who prefer hand-lubing, the Purple Star excels in its ease and comfort for typing with a low-pitched sound signature. 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
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Keygeek Raw utilizes a Nylon & UPE blend for its top housing, which offers a unique sound profile and is exclusive to Keygeek Raw switches. This blend provides a distinct typing experience with a particular emphasis on the sound when releasing a key. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star features a POM top housing known for creating a pleasing and deeper sound that is relatively muted. Both materials offer a level of customization and sound qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Keygeek Raw incorporates a UMPE & Si blend that is also exclusive to their switches. This blend contributes to the overall impact of the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star uses a POM bottom housing, which complements the top housing in creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. While each housing material has its unique characteristics, they both play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience of the switch.
In terms of comparison, both the Keygeek Raw and the KTT Purple Star offer housing materials that aim to create a pleasing and unique typing sound. While the specific blends differ between the two switches, they both provide a customized typing experience that caters to individual preferences. Whether it be the Nylon & UPE blend of the Keygeek Raw or the POM material of the Purple Star, users can expect a level of sound customization that enhances their overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the Keygeek Raw requires no force for actuation, making it extremely light in this aspect. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star has an actuation force of 43 grams, which is heavier than the Keygeek Raw. When it comes to bottom out force, the Keygeek Raw has a force of 57.5 grams, while the KTT Purple Star has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches offer different typing experiences, with the Keygeek Raw being lighter for longer typing sessions and the KTT Purple Star providing a slightly stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm. Both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0mm standard. Gamers may prefer the Keygeek Raw for its slightly shorter travel distance, providing a faster response time. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the KTT Purple Star with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the difference of 0.1mm between the two switches may not be significant enough to make a noticeable difference in typing or gaming experiences, so both switches offer comparable results.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and purposes, while the KTT Purple Star switch provides a low-pitched tone, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches offer different sound experiences that can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Keygeek Raw switch is described as textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed, along with a mild and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switch offers a mild and easy-to-press typing feel, with minimal force required for activation, enhancing the overall typing experience by reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Both switches present their unique tactile qualities that cater to different preferences, from those who prefer a textured feel to those who favor a gentle and effortless typing experience.
Overall, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and KTT Purple Star switches offer distinctive subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Keygeek Raw switch is known for its unique material blend and slightly textured feel, the Purple Star switch stands out for its all-POM construction and buttery smooth typing experience. Depending on individual preferences and typing needs, users can choose between these switches to achieve similar, yet different results, tailored to their specific requirements and preferences regarding sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch with a slightly textured feel and a moderate actuation force, the Keygeek Raw linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a light actuation force and a low-pitched sound, the KTT Purple Star linear switch may be more suitable for your typing preferences. Consider your typing style, preference for actuation force, and desired sound profile when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that best aligns with your needs and enjoy a delightful typing experience.
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