Outemu Crystal Brown vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Crystal Brown, a tactile switch, to the KTT Purple Star, a linear switch, it becomes apparent that each offers unique features and benefits. The Crystal Brown is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump sensation while typing. On the other hand, the Purple Star stands out for its smooth typing experience due to its all-POM construction and light 45g bottom-out force, making it ideal for light typists seeking ease and comfort. While the Crystal Brown offers a tactile typing experience, the Purple Star provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature. 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
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and the KTT Purple Star switches, we can see distinct differences in the materials used. The Crystal Brown's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Purple Star's POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. This difference in sound profile can significantly impact the overall typing experience, with the Crystal Brown providing a crisper sound while the Purple Star offers a more subdued sound. Additionally, the transparency of the polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aspect to the switch that the Purple Star lacks.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM bottom housing of the Purple Star, which also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both housing materials result in a similar deeper sound, the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing is more absorbent of sound, leading to a potentially more immersive typing experience. Overall, the differences in the bottom housing materials of these switches may cater to different preferences in sound and typing feel.
When considering the overall impact of the housing materials on the typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities brought by each material are split between the top and bottom housings of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the overall typing experience when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing primarily affects the sound when a key is released. While the Crystal Brown and Purple Star switches may have different housing materials, each contributes uniquely to the overall sound profile and typing feel, offering users a choice based on their preferences for sound and typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Purple Star linear switch, which has an actuation force of 43 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Crystal Brown is also heavier at 55 grams, whereas the Purple Star has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while the Crystal Brown provides a slightly more substantial typing experience with both the actuation and bottom out forces being heavier, the Purple Star offers a lighter touch overall. Both switches fall into the medium-light category, making them suitable for users who prefer a balance between typing effort and keypress feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is clear that the Crystal Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Purple Star's 3.5 mm. The Crystal Brown offers a deeper key press experience, providing a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Purple Star's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking a quicker response time and a more agile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference - whether you prioritize a deeper key press or a faster response time. Nonetheless, both switches offer a smooth typing experience despite the difference in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal Brown comes in at $3.10, whereas the KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88.
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 switch does not have a specific descriptor mentioned, while the KTT Purple Star switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile. This means that the Crystal Brown may have a more neutral or standard sound compared to the Purple Star's deeper and mellower tone. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Crystal Brown's specific attributes are not provided, whereas the KTT Purple Star switch is described as having a mild and easy-to-press feel. This indicates that the Crystal Brown's typing experience may vary depending on personal preferences or sensitivity to tactile feedback, while the Purple Star offers a gentle and effortless typing feel that is comfortable for extended use. The light actuation force of the Purple Star also helps in reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal Brown and KTT Purple Star switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal Brown may provide a more standard typing experience in terms of sound and feel, while the Purple Star stands out for its low-pitched sound profile and easy-to-press typing feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing comfort, one can choose between these switches to enhance their overall typing experience. Additionally, both switches may offer similar typing results in terms of performance and durability, ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a medium-light bottom-out force and a tactile feedback without any specific standout features, the Crystal Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom-out force, a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature, and easy-to-press switches, the Purple Star may be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire. Choose the switch that best fits your typing needs and enjoy a seamless typing experience.
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