Durock Light Tactile vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Purple Star mechanical keyboard switches, we see a distinct difference in their key characteristics. The Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility, providing a softer typing experience compared to other tactile switches on the market. On the other hand, the Purple Star switch offers a smooth and easy-to-press linear experience, making it a great choice for those who prefer light typing. While the Light Tactile is categorized as neutral, mild, and polished, the Purple Star is categorized as mild, low-pitched, and easy to press. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and KTT Purple Star switches both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. The Light Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiff nature. On the other hand, the Purple Star utilizes a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials have their own distinct sound profiles, they each offer a pleasing typing experience for users looking for different auditory feedback.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Light Tactile incorporates a nylon material that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Purple Star utilizes a POM bottom housing, which contributes to the uniquely deep and muted sound profile of the switch. Despite the differences in material, both switches offer a pleasing typing experience with their bottom housing materials providing a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.
While the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and KTT Purple Star switches differ in terms of top and bottom materials, they both aim to provide users with a unique and satisfying typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing materials of each switch allow for a balanced sound profile and feel when typing. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and more muted sound of POM, both switches offer quality housing materials that cater to a variety of user preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the Light Tactile or Purple Star, you can expect a similar level of satisfaction in terms of typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Purple Star switches, it is evident that the Light Tactile switch is heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. The Light Tactile requires 52 grams of force to actuate and 67 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Purple Star is lighter, with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference in weight can have a significant impact on typing experience, as some users may prefer the lighter feel of the Purple Star for extended typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier Light Tactile for a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Purple Star switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the KTT Purple Star the shorter of the two switches. The shorter travel distance of the Purple Star may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the Light Tactile's longer travel distance may appeal to those seeking a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of users and settings. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switch provides a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to other switches. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can be further enhanced or altered depending on the keyboard and keycap combination used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a mild tactile experience that is gentle and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. Meanwhile, the KTT Purple Star switch also offers a mild typing experience with an easy-to-press design that requires minimal force to activate. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and approachable typing feel, catering to a wide range of users who prefer a lighter and smoother typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Light Tactile and KTT Purple Star switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The Light Tactile switch provides a gentle tactility and neutral sound, while the Purple Star switch offers a smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, but both switches offer quality options for those seeking a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Purple Star switches, consider your preference for tactility and bottom-out force. If you enjoy a gentle tactile feel with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Durock Light Tactile switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth linear switch with a light bottom-out force, the KTT Purple Star switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your typing experience will be influenced by the switch's sound and feel characteristics, so choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
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