Gazzew LT vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gazzew LT and the KTT Purple Star mechanical keyboard switches, both belonging to the linear category, some clear distinctions can be drawn. The LT stands out with its captivating lilac hue, known for its deep, resonant "thockiness" sound profile that adds a unique auditory experience to typing. On the other hand, the Purple Star switches offer a buttery smooth typing experience with their all-POM construction, making them perfect for those who prefer a light typing touch. While the LT is praised for its bassy and thocky characteristics, the Purple Star is favored for its mild and easy-to-press nature. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and KTT Purple Star both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Gazzew LT utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a rich and deep sound profile with a softness that is often likened to "boba plastic." On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star boasts POM housing material for both the top and bottom, creating a sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. While both switches offer a pleasing sound experience, the Gazzew LT may appeal more to those seeking a softer and richer sound, while the Purple Star caters to those who prefer a deeper and more muted tone.
On the flip side, if the top and bottom housings are different for a given switch, such as in the case of the Gazzew LT and KTT Purple Star, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. This means that the bottom housing material will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. In contrast, the top housing material will influence the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while both switches may have their own unique characteristics, the overall sound experience will be a combination of the qualities of both the top and bottom housing materials.
Ultimately, whether you choose the Gazzew LT or KTT Purple Star will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel. Both switches offer a unique sound profile due to their housing materials, with the Gazzew LT providing a softer and richer tone from its Gazzew blend housing, while the KTT Purple Star delivers a deeper and more muted sound from its POM housing. However, if you are looking for a similar sound experience from both switches, opting for switches with the same housing material for both the top and bottom may result in comparable results in terms of sound profile and feel.
Weight
In comparing the Gazzew LT linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the two have distinct differences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The LT switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it unclear how much force is needed to trigger a keystroke, while its bottom out force is 65 grams, which falls on the medium-heavy side. In contrast, the Purple Star switch requires an actuation force of 43 grams, indicating a lighter touch needed to initiate a keystroke, and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is on the lighter side as well. Therefore, the Purple Star switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the LT switch. When considering weight, it is important to note that lighter switches are ideal for longer typing or gaming sessions, while heavier switches provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Purple Star has a longer travel distance compared to the LT switch. Typically, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, making the LT switch a good choice for gaming. On the other hand, a longer travel distance might feel more substantial and satisfying for typing purposes, making the Purple Star switch a better option for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific use case.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50, whereas the KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88.
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 Gazzew LT switches are renowned for their bassy, thocky, and low-pitched characteristics, providing a rich and deep sound profile that resonates with each key press. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switches are known for their low-pitched sound, offering a more mellow and neutral tone that complements the buttery smooth typing experience they provide. Both switches deliver satisfying auditory feedback, but the LTs lean towards a deeper and richer sound, while the Purple Stars offer a more subdued and gentle typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Gazzew LT switches have no specific descriptors provided, leaving their tactile experience somewhat of a mystery. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switches are described as mild and easy-to-press, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal resistance and a light actuation force of 45g. This makes them ideal for users who prefer effortless and comfortable typing without causing finger fatigue during prolonged use. While the feel of the LT switches remains uncertain, the Purple Star switches provide a comfortable and responsive typing feel that caters to a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the Gazzew LT linear switches stand out for their deep and resonant sound profile with a seamless typing experience, making them a great choice for users who appreciate a satisfying thocky sound. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switches excel in providing a buttery smooth typing experience with a more neutral sound signature and a light actuation force that promotes effortless typing. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles, ensuring a pleasant typing experience overall.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Gazzew LT linear switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a buttery smooth typing experience, the KTT Purple Star linear switches are the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom-out force. Whether you prioritize the auditory symphony of thockiness provided by the LT switches or the effortless typing experience offered by the Purple Star switches, both options have their own unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience.
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