Outemu Crystal Brown vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Crystal Brown, a tactile switch, and the KTT Purple Click, a clicky switch. The Crystal Brown is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a subtle bump upon actuation while remaining relatively quiet. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch is celebrated for its high-pitched, satisfying click sound that adds an extra layer of feedback to each keystroke. The Purple Click switch is also known for being light and crunchy, providing a perfect balance between key press weight and tactile feel. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
The Outemu Crystal Brown and the KTT Purple Click both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, the slight differences in design and manufacturing processes may lead to subtle variations in sound and feel between the two switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Crystal Brown and Purple Click feature nylon housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other plastics, as it is softer and absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches utilizing nylon housings. Despite sharing the same bottom housing material, the switches may still produce slightly different sound profiles due to variations in design and construction.
Overall, while the Outemu Crystal Brown and the KTT Purple Click share similarities in their housing materials, slight differences in manufacturing processes and design may lead to subtle variations in sound and feel. Both switches offer a unique typing experience with the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials, creating distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches provide options for customizing your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it is evident that both switches have a similar bottom out force of 55 grams. However, the Crystal Brown has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Purple Click's 40 grams. This makes the Purple Click the lighter switch in terms of actuation force. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as a lighter actuation force allows for longer typing periods and is ideal for work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, a heavier actuation force provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In this case, the Crystal Brown would be better suited for those looking for a slightly heavier actuation force, while the Purple Click would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter actuation force. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium-light bottom out force, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for users.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of travel distance. This makes them both suitable options for those who prefer a standard travel distance in their mechanical keyboard switches. While there may be differences in their tactile feedback or sound profile, the travel distance remains consistent between the two switches. Overall, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance with either the Crystal Brown or Purple Click switches.
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 Crystal 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch is known for its quiet operation, lacking the signature click noise associated with clicky switches. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch stands out for its high-pitched and satisfying click sound, reminiscent of stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. The Purple Click switch offers a more resonant and immersive auditory experience compared to the Crystal Brown, which may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced sound profile during typing sessions.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Crystal Brown switch offers a tactile typing experience without the clickiness of the Purple Click switch. Unfortunately, there is no specific description available for the feel of the Crystal Brown switch. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch provides an invigorating and responsive typing sensation, with a moderate to firm actuation force for a snappy feel. Additionally, the Purple Click switch is described as having a stepped feel, offering a unique two-stage tactile feedback that may be preferred by those looking for a more subtle tactile experience compared to other switches.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a quiet and tactile typing experience, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch may be more suitable for your preferences. However, if you enjoy a high-pitched and satisfying click sound along with an invigorating and responsive typing feel, the KTT Purple Click switch could be the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a switch with a balanced tactile feel and a lighter actuation force, the Crystal Brown may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a high-pitched, satisfying click sound with a light keystroke and pronounced feedback, the Purple Click switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
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