Cherry MX Black vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Purple Star stand out as popular options for users seeking a linear switch. The MX Black, known for its smooth texture and deep sound profile, offers a stiff and low-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Star switches provide a buttery smooth feel with a very light 45g bottom-out, making them easy to press and ideal for light typists. While the MX Black may appeal to those looking for a textured and stiff switch, the Purple Star caters to users seeking a smooth and easy-to-press option. 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
60g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Black and the KTT Purple Star both utilize different housing materials for their switches. The MX Black features a nylon top and bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Purple Star uses a POM top and bottom housing, providing a unique and pleasing sound profile that is deeper and more muted compared to nylon. While both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, the choice between the two will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of sound profile, the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Purple Star offer distinct characteristics based on their housing materials. The nylon top and bottom housing of the MX Black create a sound that is deeper and fuller, while the POM housing of the Purple Star produces a more unique and pleasing sound that is relatively more muted. This results in a difference in typing experience, with the MX Black delivering a rounder sound compared to the deeper sound of the Purple Star. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and tactile feedback.
While the housing materials for the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Purple Star differ, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. The nylon housing of the MX Black absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile, while the POM housing of the Purple Star creates a more unique and muted sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer a deep and pleasing typing sound that users may enjoy. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch reveals some notable differences. The Cherry MX Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Despite their differing weight profiles, both switches excel in their respective categories, offering a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences. Ultimately, the Cherry MX Black is on the heavier side, while the KTT Purple Star is lighter, catering to different typing styles and preferences.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Cherry MX Black has a slightly longer travel distance, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper keypress feel. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star has a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers or individuals looking for faster response times. Both switches provide a different typing experience based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of whether you prefer a longer or shorter travel distance. Ultimately, if you prefer a shorter travel distance for quicker response times, the KTT Purple Star would be the better option, whereas if you prefer a deeper keypress feel, the Cherry MX Black would be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00, 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 Cherry MX Black and KTT Purple Star switches have a low-pitched profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This characteristic is great for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Black offers a textured and stiff typing experience, with noticeable friction when pressed and requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star provides a mild and easy-to-press feel, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal force required to activate the switches. This makes the Purple Star switches a great choice for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing.
Overall, both the Cherry MX Black and KTT Purple Star switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a low-pitched sound profile and a textured, stiff feel, the MX Black switches would be the way to go. However, if you prefer a smoother, easy-to-press typing experience with a light actuation force, the Purple Star switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference in sound and feel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience either way.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between Cherry MX Black linear switches and KTT Purple Star linear switches, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a heavier, more textured and stiff typing experience with a deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter, smoother, and easier-to-press typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the KTT Purple Star switches would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, the decision boils down to your personal typing style and preferences, so choose the switch that aligns best with your needs for an optimal typing experience.
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