Haimu Orange Sea vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Haimu Orange Sea and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Haimu Orange Sea and KTT Purple Star offer distinct yet appealing qualities for typists and gamers alike. The Haimu Orange Sea switches are celebrated for their impeccably smooth typing experience, paired with a neutral sound signature, making them an excellent option for those who prioritize a seamless feel without distracting noise. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switches are crafted from all-POM materials, delivering a buttery smooth experience that further enhances typing comfort. With a very light 45g bottom-out force, these switches cater particularly to light typists who favor ease of use and low resistance. While both switches offer a satisfying linear experience, the choice ultimately hinges on individual preferences regarding weight and material feel. 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
37g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Haimu Orange Sea and KTT Purple Star switches present a fascinating comparison of housing materials, showcasing both distinct characteristics and similarities. The Orange Sea features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile due to its rigidity. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star utilizes a POM top housing, which contributes to a more muted and deeper sound. While both materials serve the same fundamental purpose of enclosing the switch components, they impart very different auditory experiences. The clear nature of the polycarbonate in the Orange Sea also enhances its compatibility with RGB lighting, allowing light to pass through while offering a crystal-clear sound, which is unlike the more opaque POM housing of the Purple Star.
Diving deeper into the bottom housing, the Orange Sea employs a nylon material that is renowned for its ability to absorb sound and produce a deeper sound profile that feels rounder and more full-bodied. Conversely, the Purple Star's bottom housing is also made of POM, which similarly produces a unique and pleasing sound but remains on the muted side. This shared POM material in the Purple Star's bottom housing ensures that the tactile feedback and acoustic response from bottoming out provide a softer sound—complementing the overall muted qualities present in both bottom and top housings of this switch. Meanwhile, the nylon in the Orange Sea's bottom housing contrasts with the POM, illustrating how variations in construction influences sound characteristics.
In terms of overall performance when using these switches, the interplay between the top and bottom housings will significantly affect the resultant sound profile when pressed. The Orange Sea's polycarbonate top housing can deliver a crisper sound upon release, while its nylon bottom contributes a fuller depth when bottoming out. In the Purple Star, the POM in both the top and bottom housing tends to favor a more muted acoustic experience, presenting a cohesive yet different auditory feedback. Overall, while both switches can deliver a pleasing experience, the Orange Sea leans towards a brighter sound due to its polycarbonate top, contrasting with the more rounded sound signature produced by the dual POM construction of the Purple Star.
Weight
When comparing the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Orange Sea requires a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Purple Star has a heavier actuation force of 43 grams. This difference suggests that the Orange Sea may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter key feel, facilitating longer typing or gaming sessions with less fatigue. In terms of the bottom out force, the Orange Sea also registers lighter at 45 grams compared to the Purple Star's 50 grams, reinforcing the notion that the Orange Sea provides a softer overall experience. Consequently, individuals who enjoy a firmer tactile response may gravitate toward the KTT Purple Star, making it ideal for users who seek a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Orange Sea is the lighter switch, whereas the Purple Star is heavier, catering to different preferences depending on typing style and comfort.
Travel distance
The Haimu Orange Sea linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This indicates that the Orange Sea switch allows for a marginally deeper press compared to the Purple Star, providing a sensation that some users may find more satisfying or stable. On the other hand, the Purple Star's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers and those who favor quicker response times, allowing for faster actuation during intense gaming sessions. Overall, while the difference in travel distance is minimal, choosing the Orange Sea for a more pronounced feel or the Purple Star for heightened responsiveness will cater to different preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79, 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, the Haimu Orange Sea switches are designed with a neutral sound signature, which allows for a more balanced auditory experience. This means you won't find any harsh clacks or overly bright tones; instead, the Orange Sea offers a calm and unobtrusive sound that is ideal for quieter environments. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star switches have a low-pitched tone that delivers a mellower, bass-heavy sound. This characteristic can give your typing a slightly more subdued auditory presence, which might resonate well in shared or professional spaces. Both switches maintain a neutral sound profile; however, the Orange Sea leans more towards an uncolored experience, while the Purple Star presents a more defined, low-end tone.
Regarding feel, the Haimu Orange Sea switches are reputed for their impeccably smooth typing experience, providing a delightful sensation with each keystroke that enhances overall ergonomics. This smoothness is likely to make typing feel effortless, allowing for extended use without discomfort. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switches offer a mild typing experience that is characterized by easy-to-press action. These switches require just 45 grams of force to bottom out, appealing specifically to light typists seeking a gentle yet responsive feel. The softness in resistance also helps reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions, making them comfortable for prolonged use. While both switches prioritize smoothness, the Orange Sea focuses on a more refined texture, whereas the Purple Star incorporates a lighter actuation force for ease.
In summary, both the Haimu Orange Sea and KTT Purple Star linear switches deliver a pleasant typing experience with smooth action and neutral sound profiles. However, the Orange Sea emphasizes a refined tactile feel, while the Purple Star caters to those who prefer a lighter touch and a mellower sound. Ultimately, both switches will yield satisfying results, and your choice may come down to personal preference regarding the nuances in sound and feel length of typing sessions.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it's essential to consider your typing preferences and habits. If you prioritize a smooth, effortless typing experience with a lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams, the Haimu Orange Sea might be your best choice. Its impeccable smoothness and neutral sound signature make it particularly appealing for casual typists or those who engage in frequent typing sessions without the risk of finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something that balances comfort with a slightly firmer feel, the KTT Purple Star switch, featuring an all-POM construction and a bottom-out force of 50 grams, is an excellent option. Its low-pitched sound and mild typing experience provide a versatile middle-ground that is approachable for most users. Therefore, if you enjoy a more grounded typing experience with gentle resistance, the Purple Star could enhance your comfort and efficiency. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style, so consider what aspects matter most to you in your mechanical keyboard journey.
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