Outemu Brown vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Outemu Brown and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Brown and KTT Purple Click stand out for their unique characteristics. The Outemu Brown is a tactile switch, offering a smooth keystroke experience without the audible feedback commonly found in clicky switches. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click, known for its signature high-pitched click, falls into the clicky switch category, providing a satisfying auditory response with each key press. While the Brown switch may appeal to those who prefer a quieter typing experience, the Purple Click switch may be a great option for individuals who enjoy the auditory feedback and pronounced tactility. 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
53g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.20 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Brown and the KTT Purple Click switches, it is clear that both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing. This means that they will both deliver a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of materials for the bottom housing. The Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Purple Click also uses nylon for its bottom housing, producing a similar effect.
The differences in sound profile between the Outemu Brown and the KTT Purple Click switches can be attributed to their choice of bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing of the Brown creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing, absorbing more sound due to its softer nature. On the other hand, the Purple Click's nylon bottom housing also leads to a similar sound profile, adding a duller and rounder tone to the typing experience. This demonstrates how the bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, even if the top housing material remains consistent.
In terms of practicality, the choice of housing materials in a switch can affect both the sound and feel of typing. While the polycarbonate top housing of both the Outemu Brown and KTT Purple Click switches contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, the nylon bottom housing plays a crucial role in shaping the deeper tones heard during typing. Understanding how each material interacts with the keypress can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound and feel when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between these switches offer users a variety of options to tailor their typing experience to their liking.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, a noticeable difference can be seen. The Brown switch has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a smoother and lighter keystroke for extended use. Those who enjoy a lighter touch may find the Purple Click switch more comfortable for long typing sessions, while users seeking a more tactile and robust typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Brown switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between these two switches, and you can expect similar results when using either one.
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 Brown 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 Brown tactile switch is often praised for its quiet operation, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. In comparison, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is known for its distinctive high-pitched click that adds a satisfying auditory element to typing. The Purple Click switch offers a crunchy and resonant sound profile, creating an immersive typing experience that stands out from the quieter Brown switch.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Brown switch is typically described as offering a smooth and tactile typing experience, with a subtle bump during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch provides an invigorating feel with pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive response. Additionally, the Purple Click switch is noted for its stepped feel, offering a two-stage sensation that differentiates it from the more uniform tactility of the Brown switch.
Overall, while the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles, both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience. If you enjoy a quieter typing experience with a subtle tactile bump, the Outemu Brown switch may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a more immersive and audibly satisfying typing experience with pronounced feedback, the KTT Purple Click switch may be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force at 65 grams and a more subtle tactile feedback, the Outemu Brown switch would be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force at 55 grams, a high-pitched and satisfying click sound, and a snappy and reactive feel, then the KTT Purple Click switch would be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you value most.
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