Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch that best suits your typing and gaming preferences, the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the KTT Pine offer two distinctly different experiences. The Cherry MX Purple RGB is a tactile switch, celebrated for its refined and satisfying bump, providing feedback that many find enhances their typing accuracy and overall engagement with the keyboard. Designed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses, these switches strike a balance with a medium-strength actuation, making them great for both typing and gaming. In contrast, the KTT Pine is a linear switch known for its smooth and effortless key travel. Characterized by a medium-heavy actuation force and a polished, factory-lubed finish, the KTT Pine creates a buttery smooth experience, ideal for those who prefer a quieter and seamless keystroke. While the Cherry MX Purple emphasizes tactile feedback for an interactive feel, the KTT Pine focuses on providing a silky, uninterrupted flow that makes it a fantastic choice for extended typing sessions or fast-paced gaming. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches and the KTT Pine switches, it is evident that they utilize two different types of plastics: nylon for the Cherry MX Purple and polycarbonate for the KTT Pine. The nylon top and bottom housings of the Cherry MX Purple are known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile due to the softness of the material, which absorbs sound effectively. This characteristic creates a more rounded auditory experience when typing, enhancing the tactile feedback that many users appreciate. Conversely, the KTT Pine's polycarbonate housing—which is both stiffer and more translucent—contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ensuring that each keystroke resonates distinctly. The difference in material properties between nylon and polycarbonate is significant, particularly in how they impact the overall typing experience.
On an aesthetic level, the polycarbonate housing of the KTT Pine is particularly advantageous for showcasing RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant illumination passed through the switch. This is contrasted with the nylon housing of the Cherry MX Purple RGB, which, while functional in terms of sound dampening, may not provide the same visual brilliance when accompanied by RGB lighting effects. Both switches, however, serve their purposes well—those who prefer a richer sound may favor the Cherry MX Purple while those who seek a visually compelling experience alongside a crisper sound might gravitate towards the KTT Pine.
In practical terms, the varying materials between the two switches mean that users will encounter different auditory and tactile experiences. The impact of sound characteristics depends not just on the housing material but also on the interplay between the top and bottom housings. In the Cherry MX Purple RGB, the nylon contributes to heightened absorption and a muted sound profile, especially noticeable upon bottoming out. In contrast, the KTT Pine's polycarbonate allows for clarity and resonance, particularly upon releasing a key. Ultimately, while both switches may appeal to different preferences, understanding the roles that nylon and polycarbonate play in sound and feel can enable users to select a switch that aligns with their tactile and auditory desires.
Weight
The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch exhibit similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means users can expect a similar keystroke trigger experience from either switch, making them suitable for long typing sessions or gaming. However, the KTT Pine switch has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which indicates that it requires a heavier push to bottom out compared to the Cherry MX Purple RGB, for which the bottom out force remains unknown. This heavier force can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger feedback while typing. Consequently, for users seeking a lighter option, the Cherry MX Purple RGB would be the preferable choice, while those who want a heavier feel can opt for the KTT Pine switch.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch both share the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users can expect a similar feel and level of feedback when pressing either switch. Since both switches have identical travel distances, they will deliver comparable results in terms of keypress response and activation. This uniformity allows users to transition between the two switches without noticing a significant difference in the depth of their key presses, making either switch a viable choice for those seeking a consistent typing 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 Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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
The sound profile of the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is not detailed, but it typically offers a balanced auditory feedback that is neither too harsh nor too muted, making it ideal for a wide range of settings. In contrast, the KTT Pine linear switch is characterized by its bassy and low-pitched sound, providing a deeper and richer auditory experience during key presses. This low frequency resembles the depth associated with bass tones, giving the typing experience a mellow ambiance. However, it’s essential to remember that the overall sound of both switches will be influenced by additional factors, such as the keyboard case and keycap materials.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches provide a refined tactile experience with a short, medium-strength bump, offering a clear indication of each keystroke without being overly pronounced. Users can expect a blend of tactile feedback that enhances typing without being jarring. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch is designed for a notably smooth experience, described as buttery and creamy. The polished and factory-lubed finish minimizes friction, allowing for a seamless keystroke that feels effortless and pleasurable. This creates a sensation akin to gliding your fingers across the keys, promoting a relaxed typing experience.
In summary, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch offers a distinct tactile feedback that can enhance typing precision, while the KTT Pine linear switch emphasizes smoothness and ease of use. Both switches provide different experiences: the MX Purple focuses on tactile clarity, while the Pine prioritizes a buttery feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference; those seeking tactile feedback may prefer the Cherry MX, whereas those desiring a smooth and effortless typing experience might lean towards the KTT Pine.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, your preferences and typing style will play significant roles. If you enjoy a tactile bump that provides tactile feedback without being overly forceful, the MX Purple RGB is the ideal choice. It’s particularly suitable for users who appreciate a balanced typing experience, especially for both typing and gaming, thanks to its refined tactile design developed with community input. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter experience, the KTT Pine linear switch would be more to your liking. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force and buttery smooth feel make it excellent for extended typing sessions, where you want minimal resistance and maximum comfort. Additionally, the rich, bassy sound profile of the Pine enhances the typing experience, imparting a pleasant auditory feedback that is often preferred by those who prioritize a more serene environment. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value a tactile sensation or a silky smooth experience, so consider what aspects are most important to you in your everyday typing routine.
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