KTT Mint vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, each offers its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard users. The Mint is favored for its smooth linear feel, providing a satisfying typing experience with a poppy thockiness and a light touch. On the other hand, the Purple switch lacks specific standout features but falls under the tactile category. If you prefer a low-pitched, neutral, and mild typing experience with a polished feel, the Mint may be the way to go. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the KTT Mint and Outemu Purple switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the keyboard. In terms of sound and feel, the polycarbonate top housing plays a significant role in the overall typing experience for both switches.
On the other hand, the Mint and Purple switches differ in their bottom housing materials. The Mint utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Purple switch also features a nylon bottom housing, leading to similar sound characteristics as the Mint switch. Despite their differences in top housing material, the bottom housing material plays a more significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Ultimately, while the Mint and Purple switches may have differences in their bottom housing materials, the use of polycarbonate in their top housings creates a consistent sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials allows for a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Whether using the Mint or Purple switch, the combination of materials results in an enhanced and dynamic typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, we find that the Mint is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. In contrast, the Purple switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. The Mint switch provides a medium-light typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Purple switch offers a slightly heavier push feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Despite the differences in actuation and bottom out forces, both switches are designed to provide a smooth and comfortable typing experience, ensuring that users will achieve similar results in terms of overall typing performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT Mint and Outemu Purple switches both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying tactile feedback at the same distance, allowing for a comfortable typing experience. Overall, the travel distance of these switches is identical, so you can expect similar results when using either the KTT Mint linear switch or the Outemu Purple tactile switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91, whereas the Outemu Purple comes in at $3.10.
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 KTT Mint linear switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force. On the other hand, there is no specific information available on the sound characteristics of the Outemu Purple tactile switch. It is important to note that sound perception can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycap materials.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Mint linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The typing feel is described as gentle and approachable, suitable for a wide range of users. Unfortunately, there is no information provided about the tactile feel of the Outemu Purple switch.
Overall, if you are looking for a satisfyingly smooth linear switch with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, as well as a mild and polished typing experience, the KTT Mint switch would be a great choice. If you are considering the Outemu Purple tactile switch, the lack of available information makes it difficult to compare directly to the KTT Mint switch. However, based on the known qualities of the Mint switch, it is possible that the Purple switch could provide similar results in terms of typing feel and sound characteristics. As always, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a smooth, linear typing experience with a light touch and a satisfying thocky sound, the KTT Mint linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback with a medium actuation force and a more pronounced feel, the Outemu Purple tactile switch may be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound profile. So, choose wisely based on what characteristics matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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