KTT Mint vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Mint and the KTT Purple Star, both being linear switches. The mint is praised for its satisfyingly smooth typing experience, characterized by a poppy thockiness and a light and fleeting type feel. On the other hand, the purple star stands out for its buttery smooth typing sensation and very light 45g bottom-out, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer easy and comfortable typing. [Each switch has unique benefits], but diving deeper into their characteristics can help you make the best decision for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Mint and the KTT Purple Star both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Mint features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Purple Star's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the use of polycarbonate in the Mint and POM in the Purple Star results in different auditory experiences for users.
In terms of bottom housings, the Mint utilizes a nylon material while the Purple Star employs a POM material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, POM bottom housing in the Purple Star contributes to a deep and muted sound profile. Despite their differences, both bottom housing materials offer a unique typing experience that can cater to varying preferences for sound and feel.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Mint and the KTT Purple Star will ultimately come down to personal preferences for sound profiles. The Mint's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharp and clear sound, while the Purple Star's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, the bottom housing materials of nylon in the Mint and POM in the Purple Star create different typing experiences. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with the Mint or a deeper sound with the Purple Star, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is clear that the Mint has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Purple Star. The Mint has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Purple Star has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Mint switch slightly heavier than the Purple Star switch overall. However, both switches fall within the range of medium-light to light force switches, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, individuals who prefer a slightly heavier typing experience may lean towards the KTT Mint switch, while those who prefer a lighter touch may find the KTT Purple Star switch more suitable for their needs.
Travel distance
The KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Mint linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Purple Star offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Mint, making it a good option for those who prefer quicker response times. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the Purple Star for its faster actuation. On the other hand, the Mint provides a bit more depth with its 4 mm travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying for typing or other tasks that require a more substantial keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91, 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, both the KTT Mint and the KTT Purple Star switches are described as having a low-pitched tone, providing a bass-heavy and mellow sound profile. This means that, in terms of sound, you can expect similar results from both switches, with a neutral and soothing typing experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Mint and Purple Star are described as offering a mild and gentle typing experience. With a polished finish, the Mint switch provides a smooth and refined key travel, making it approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Purple Star switch is highlighted for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a comfortable typing experience with low finger fatigue. Overall, both switches aim to provide a pleasant and effortless typing feel.
In conclusion, both the KTT Mint and the KTT Purple Star linear switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mint switch boasts a poppy thockiness and a light type feel, the Purple Star switch delivers a buttery smooth typing experience with a very light 45g bottom-out. Whether you prefer a smoother and polished typing experience like the Mint or an easy-to-press and comfortable feel like the Purple Star, both switches are excellent choices for light typists looking for a satisfying linear switch option. Ultimately, the decision between the two may come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Mint linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider the bottom-out force and your typing preferences. If you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force and enjoy a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness, then the Mint switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature, then the Purple Star switch is the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the feel you aspire to achieve. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose wisely based on what aligns best with your typing needs.
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