KTT Orange vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the KTT Orange and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Orange and the KTT Purple Star offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Orange switch is known for its bouncy feel, frictionless typing experience, and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switch boasts a buttery smooth typing experience, light 45g bottom-out force, and easy-to-press keys. While the Orange switch may be preferred for its bouncy and frictionless feel, the Purple Star switch may be more appealing to those looking for a smoother and lighter typing experience. 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
46g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Orange and the KTT Purple Star, it is clear that they differ significantly in terms of sound profiles. The Orange's polycarbonate top and bottom housings are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, due to the stiffness of the plastic material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound profile, especially when used with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Purple Star's POM top and bottom housings produce a deeper, more muted sound profile, providing a unique auditory experience.
However, despite their differences, both the Orange and Purple Star offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Orange's polycarbonate housing provides a more transparent and clear sound that is perfect for those who enjoy a sharper and more distinct typing experience. In contrast, the Purple Star's POM housing creates a deeper and more subdued sound that may appeal to users looking for a quieter typing experience without sacrificing on quality. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials comes down to personal preference and the type of sound profile that the user desires.
It is important to note that the impact of the housing material differs between the top and bottom housings of the switches. The qualities of the material in the bottom housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the key, while the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing the key. This distinction in how the housing material interacts with the typing experience highlights the importance of considering both the top and bottom housing materials when selecting a switch for a desired sound profile.
Weight
The KTT Orange linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams compared to the KTT Purple Star linear switch with 43 grams, making the Purple Star the lighter option. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Orange switch is 53 grams, while the Purple Star has a bottom out force of 50 grams, again making the Purple Star the lighter choice. Both switches provide a smooth and linear typing experience, but the Orange switch offers a slightly firmer push feel due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Purple Star, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may opt for the Orange switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to individual preference for typing and gaming needs.
Travel distance
The KTT Orange linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch both have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent travel distance from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of key travel, ensuring that users will get consistent results regardless of which switch they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
The KTT Purple Star 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
In terms of sound, both the KTT Orange and Purple Star switches are described as having a low-pitched sound profile, which typically results in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's build and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Orange switch offers a bouncy and frictionless typing experience, thanks to its 22mm long spring and factory-lubed construction. The keys have a lively feel with a spring-like feedback, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switch is described as mild and easy-to-press, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal force required for activation. These switches provide a comfortable and low-impact typing feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
Overall, both the KTT Orange and Purple Star switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Orange switch excels in providing a bouncy and frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, while the Purple Star switch offers a mild and easy-to-press feel with the same low-pitched sound signature. Depending on your typing style and preference for key feedback, you can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either of these switches.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the KTT Orange linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom-out force, typing experience, and sound profile. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 53 grams and enjoy a bouncy, frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter 50-gram bottom-out force and a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the KTT Purple Star switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound characteristics.
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