Everglide Oreo vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Everglide Oreo and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Oreo tactile switch to the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features to enhance your typing experience. The Oreo provides a satisfying tactile bump at the top followed by a cushioned bottom-out sensation, striking a balance between a pleasurable keystroke and comfortable typing. On the other hand, the Purple Star offers a smooth typing experience with a light 45g bottom-out ideal for light typists, accompanied by a neutral sound signature. While the Oreo is categorized as 'Accented', 'Chirpy', 'Stepped', the Purple Star falls under 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', 'Easy-to-press' categories. Deciding between the two switches may depend on whether you prefer a tactile or linear feel, as well as the specific sound profile and typing force that best suits your preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Oreo and the KTT Purple Star, one can see that both switches have unique characteristics. The Oreo utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. In contrast, the Purple Star features POM material for both housings, creating a deeper and more muted sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
While the Oreo and Purple Star differ in their housing materials, they both showcase the impact of housing material on sound quality. The Oreo's polycarbonate top and bottom housings contribute to its sharp and crisp sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. In comparison, the Purple Star's POM housings provide a unique deep and muted sound that sets it apart from other switches. Both switches excel in delivering a premium sound experience, showcasing the importance of housing material in mechanical keyboards.
Overall, whether you choose the Everglide Oreo or the KTT Purple Star, you can expect high-quality sound performance due to their carefully chosen housing materials. The differences between polycarbonate and POM result in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. However, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that is enhanced by the unique qualities of their housing materials. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, more muted tone, both the Oreo and Purple Star deliver exceptional performance that will elevate your keyboarding experience.
Weight
The Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch both offer a light actuation force, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. The Oreo has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Purple Star's 43 grams, but both fall within the light range. When it comes to bottom out force, the Oreo is slightly heavier at 55 grams compared to the Purple Star's 50 grams, making the Oreo a bit more substantial in terms of the typing experience. For those who enjoy a lighter touch, both switches would provide a similar feel, allowing for extended typing or gaming sessions without causing fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the lighter Oreo and the slightly heavier Purple Star will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Everglide Oreo tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm. This makes the Purple Star the shorter travel distance option between the two. The Oreo offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press sensation. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Purple Star with its shorter travel distance. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Oreo providing a bit more depth compared to the Purple Star. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key press feel and actuation depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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
When it comes to sound, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch offers a chirpy sound profile, providing a unique acoustic signature that sets them apart from other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch presents a low-pitched sound, characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Depending on personal preference, the Oreo's chirpy sound may be more appealing to some users, while others may prefer the Purple Star's soothing low-pitched sound.
In terms of feel, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is described as having an accented and stepped feel, providing a medium tactile experience with a noticeable bump that is not overwhelming. On the contrary, the KTT Purple Star linear switch offers a mild and easy-to-press feel, making typing effortless and comfortable with minimal force required to activate the keys. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Oreo may appeal more to users looking for a more prominent tactile feedback, while the Purple Star is suitable for those seeking a gentler typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Oreo provides a chirpy sound and a medium tactile experience, the Purple Star offers a low-pitched sound and a mild, easy-to-press feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, as both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience. Users can expect different but equally enjoyable results depending on whether they opt for the Oreo or the Purple Star.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you enjoy a medium-light tactile switch with a satisfying keystroke and comfortable typing experience, along with a subtle, mellow sound profile, the Oreo switches would be a great fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a buttery smooth typing experience, ideal for light typists, and a neutral sound signature, then the Purple Star switches would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what type of typing experience you prefer, whether it be a tactile bump or a smooth linear feel. Happy typing!
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