KTT MoonRosa vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the KTT MoonRosa and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT MoonRosa and the Cherry MX Purple RGB represent two distinct options catering to different typing preferences. The MoonRosa switch, with its all-POM construction, is celebrated for its buttery smooth feel and neutral sound signature, making it an excellent choice for those who favor a linear switch that provides a gentle, uninterrupted typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch stands out with its tactile feedback—offering a refined experience thanks to a short, medium-strength bump that enhances the sensation of each keystroke, ideal for users looking for that satisfying click. Each switch has its merits: the MoonRosa is perfect for quieter environments and uninterrupted gaming, while the MX Purple is great for typists who enjoy feedback and precision. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT MoonRosa switches and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches, we note some similarities and differences that affect their overall sound profile and tactile experience. The KTT MoonRosa features a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for creating a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and more muted compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB uses a nylon top housing, which is renowned for its classic qualities and ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. While both materials contribute to a rich acoustic experience, the MoonRosa’s POM offers a distinct sound signature, differentiating it from the MX Purple RGB's nylon.
Both the KTT MoonRosa and Cherry MX Purple RGB utilize a different material for their bottom housings, with the MoonRosa again employing POM and the MX Purple RGB featuring nylon. As with the top housings, the bottom housings significantly influence the switches' acoustic properties. The MoonRosa’s POM bottom housing similarly produces a pleasingly muted sound profile, whereas the nylon bottom housing of the Cherry MX Purple RGB further enhances the deeper sound due to its sound-absorbing qualities. Interestingly, even though each switch varies in material, users can expect a generally similar demeanor in bottom-out feel and sound, with both switches fostering a satisfying typing experience that leans towards a full and rounded auditory satisfaction.
The relationship between the top and bottom housings of each switch also plays a crucial role in the overall experience. POM has a notable impact on the sound and feel of the MoonRosa upon bottoming out, while nylon's qualities in the MX Purple RGB lead to a similar outcome, albeit with its own tonal variations. In both cases, the type of material fundamentally affects the sound produced when releasing a key or pressing down. Consequently, users can anticipate a comparable acoustic experience whether they choose the MoonRosa or the MX Purple RGB, as they both emphasize a deeper, more muted sound profile that encourages a fulfilling and enjoyable typing experience, albeit with nuanced differences informed by their respective materials.
Weight
When comparing the KTT MoonRosa linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, there is a notable difference in their actuation forces. The MoonRosa features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the MX Purple RGB has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience due to the increased resistance. However, while the bottom out force for the MoonRosa is quantified at 45 grams, the bottom out force for the MX Purple RGB is unspecified. This unknown factor may affect the overall typing feel, though it indicates that the MX switch could feel different during extended use. Overall, those seeking a lighter and more effortless typing experience may gravitate toward the MoonRosa, while users desiring a firmer response may opt for the Cherry MX Purple RGB.
Travel distance
The KTT MoonRosa linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch exhibit contrasting travel distances, with the MoonRosa featuring a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the MX Purple RGB has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in travel distance highlights the MoonRosa's suitability for gamers who favor quicker, more responsive keystrokes, as its shorter distance allows for faster actuation. Conversely, those who appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback and depth in their keystrokes may prefer the Cherry MX Purple RGB, which offers that additional 0.5 mm of travel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference; opting for the shorter MoonRosa emphasizes speed, while the longer MX Purple RGB caters to those who enjoy a deeper pressing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
The KTT MoonRosa 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 KTT MoonRosa linear switch provides a low-pitched tone that lends a more bass-heavy and mellow auditory characteristic to the typing experience. This quality makes it less likely to be intrusive during use, promoting a serene environment for typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch does not have a specified sound profile available, which means it could produce a variety of sounds based on the keyboard's other components, including the board and keycaps. However, since the MoonRosa has a clear distinction in sound, it's reasonable to anticipate that using Cherry MX Purple switches might not convey the same low-pitched sound, leaving room for a more variable acoustic experience.
In terms of feel, the MoonRosa switch excels by offering an easy-to-press experience, characterized by gentle resistance that requires minimal force for actuation. This feature results in a smooth and comfortable typing experience, significantly reducing finger fatigue during prolonged use. Conversely, information about the tactile feel of the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is not detailed. However, given its design and collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses, it's likely aimed at providing a refined tactile feedback mechanism that could appeal to users seeking a medium-strength bump during key presses, which enhances the typing experience in a different way.
In conclusion, while the KTT MoonRosa linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch cater to different preferences, the MoonRosa stands out with its low-pitched, smooth sound and easy-to-press feel, making it a compelling choice for users who prioritize a serene and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB may deliver a nuanced feel with its tactile bump, but the lack of specified sound characteristics makes it dependent on other factors. Ultimately, both switches have their unique qualities, allowing users to select based on personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the KTT MoonRosa linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately boils down to your typing preferences and the type of experience you're looking for. If you favor a light and effortless typing experience, the MoonRosa is an excellent option. Its 45-gram bottom-out force allows for quick key presses, making it ideal for long typing sessions where you wish to minimize finger fatigue. You will appreciate the buttery smooth feel and the low-pitched sound that adds a pleasant ambiance without being distracting. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback while typing—one that gives you a distinct bump to signal an actuation—the MX Purple RGB switch may serve you better. Its refined tactile experience provides a satisfying response that might help improve your typing accuracy and control, particularly if you engage in more programming or gaming. Consider how you use your keyboard most often and choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style, whether it be the silky smoothness of the MoonRosa or the tactile satisfaction of the Cherry MX Purple RGB.
Mentioned in this article
