Durock Medium Tactile vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Durock Medium Tactile and the KTT Purple Star. The Durock Medium Tactile is praised for its pronounced yet balanced tactility, offering a jelly-like sound signature that appeals to many users. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star stands out for its all-POM construction, providing a smooth typing experience with a light 45g bottom-out ideal for light typists. While the Medium Tactile is categorized as 'Accented', 'Stepped', and 'Polished', the Purple Star falls into the categories of 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Easy-to-press'. Both switches have their unique characteristics that may cater to different preferences. 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
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the KTT Purple Star, one key difference is that the Medium Tactile utilizes a polycarbonate top housing while the Purple Star uses a POM top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Medium Tactile creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, whereas the POM top housing of the Purple Star produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials are durable and offer unique sound profiles, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference.
On the bottom housing front, the Medium Tactile features a nylon bottom housing while the Purple Star boasts a POM bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder tone. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Purple Star also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. Both materials provide a satisfying typing experience, with the nylon offering a slightly softer feel compared to the POM.
In terms of overall typing experience, the choice between the Durock Medium Tactile and KTT Purple Star housing materials boils down to personal preference in sound profile and tactile feel. Whether you prefer the crisper and higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and more muted tones of POM, both switches offer a unique typing experience. Additionally, the differences between the top and bottom housings of each switch play a role in the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches, with the bottom housing having a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, both switches offer quality housing materials that cater to different preferences in sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the Purple Star is lighter in both aspects. The Durock Medium Tactile has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the Purple Star has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter. The actuation force of the Medium Tactile is unknown, but the actuation force of the Purple Star is 43 grams, indicating a lighter touch needed to trigger a keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Purple Star may be the better option. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Medium Tactile could provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Medium Tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Purple Star switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Purple Star switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Medium Tactile switch. In terms of typing or gaming experience, this difference may not be significant for some users. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Medium Tactile being slightly longer. For those who prefer a faster response time and shorter key travel, the Purple Star switch may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel to your keystrokes, the Durock Medium Tactile switch with its longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing/gaming style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium 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 Medium 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Medium Tactile switch offers a jelly-like sound signature, which can provide a unique and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switch is described as having a low-pitched sound profile, which tends to be more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that can contribute to the overall typing feel and user preference.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is known for its accented and stepped tactility, providing a tactile bump that is not overwhelming yet still noticeable. Additionally, its mild and polished attributes contribute to a smooth and refined typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star switch offers a mild typing experience with an easy-to-press actuation force, making it ideal for light typists looking for effortless and comfortable typing sessions. Both switches offer a comfortable typing feel with different levels of tactility and actuation forces.
Overall, the Durock Medium Tactile and the KTT Purple Star switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Medium Tactile switch offers a balanced tactile feel with a jelly-like sound signature, while the Purple Star switch delivers a smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. Depending on individual preferences for tactility, sound, and typing comfort, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience for newcomers looking to explore different switch options in the mechanical keyboard market.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Durock Medium Tactile and the KTT Purple Star switches, it ultimately boils down to your personal preference and typing style. If you are looking for a switch with a balanced tactility and a slightly heavier bottom-out force, then the Durock Medium Tactile would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a lighter actuation force, the KTT Purple Star switches might be more suitable. Consider factors like the sound and feel of the switches to determine which one aligns more with your preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you as you type.
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