Outemu Black vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Black and the KTT Purple Click mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences in their key characteristics. The Outemu Black is a linear switch that is best known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation force throughout. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click, a clicky switch, is renowned for its high-pitched and satisfying click sound with light yet tactile keystrokes. While the Black switch offers a simple and reliable typing experience, the Purple Click provides a more invigorating and expressive feel. 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
65g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Black and the KTT Purple Click switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Black uses a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound than harder plastics.
While both switches have similar polycarbonate top housings, the Outemu Black's stiffer plastic bottom housing creates a different typing experience compared to the KTT Purple Click's softer nylon bottom housing. The Black's bottom housing leads to a sharper and more impactful bottom-out sound and feel, while the Purple Click's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Black and KTT Purple Click switches contribute distinct characteristics to their typing experience. The use of different materials for the top housing can lead to subtle differences in sound profiles when typing. Furthermore, the choice between a stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing in the Black and a softer nylon bottom housing in the Purple Click offers users the opportunity to tailor their typing experience to their preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound, the housing materials of these switches play a crucial role in achieving the desired typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Black linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it is clear that the Black switch is heavier than the Purple Click switch. The Outemu Black has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, while the KTT Purple Click has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Black switch requires more force to both activate and fully press down compared to the Purple Click switch. This makes the Outemu Black more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, while the KTT Purple Click is ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Both switches provide different tactile feedback and key travel, but users can still achieve similar results depending on their preference for lighter or heavier actuation forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Black linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of keypress feel and overall typing experience. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to other switches on the market, which can result in quicker typing speeds and reduced finger fatigue. As a result, whether using the Outemu Black or KTT Purple Click switch, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with similar travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
The Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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 Outemu Black linear switch is known for being relatively quiet compared to other mechanical switches, providing a smooth keystroke without any audible click or tactile feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is famous for its high-pitched, satisfying click that adds a level of auditory satisfaction to typing. The Purple Click switch offers a crunchy and resonant sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves, providing an immersive auditory experience for the user.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Black switch is known for its linear and smooth keystrokes, lacking the tactile bump found in other switches. This can provide a consistent and even typing experience for users who prefer a linear switch. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch offers an invigorating and stepped feel, with pronounced feedback and moderate to firm actuation force. This results in a snappy and reactive typing sensation that some users find to be engaging and satisfying.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Black linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Outemu Black switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a high-pitched click and tactile feedback, the KTT Purple Click switch could provide a more engaging typing experience. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Black linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a smooth linear typing experience without any audible click, then the Outemu Black switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter actuation force with a satisfyingly high-pitched click sound and a tactile feedback, the KTT Purple Click switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, consider how you like your keyboard to feel and sound when making your decision between these two switches.
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