Outemu Dustproof Red vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Red and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Red and the KTT Purple Click offer unique experiences for users. The Dustproof Red is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and quiet operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Click, with its high-pitched and satisfying click, provides a tactile and invigorating experience for users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback while typing. Both switches have their own appeal and strengths, making them popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts. 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
60g
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 housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Red and the KTT Purple Click switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is beneficial for switches designed with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the illumination of colors to shine through. However, the nylon bottom housing of both switches brings a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the top housing.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing material, the Outemu Dustproof Red and KTT Purple Click switches differ in the materials used for their bottom housings. The Dustproof Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which enhances the typing experience by providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Purple Click also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar typing benefits. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a role in the sound produced when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches can significantly impact the sound profile and typing experience. Both the Outemu Dustproof Red and the KTT Purple Click switches showcase the advantages of using polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the incorporation of nylon in the bottom housing enhances the overall sound profile by providing a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall performance of a switch can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch both fall into the medium weight category in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The Dustproof Red requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Purple Click has a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience without being too heavy, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the Dustproof Red offers a slightly heavier feel compared to the Purple Click, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users will get a similar experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. This can be beneficial for those who prefer consistency in their typing experience. Additionally, having the same travel distance can result in a similar level of comfort and responsiveness when using either switch. Overall, both switches offer a standard travel distance, providing a familiar feel for users regardless of which one they choose.
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 Dustproof Red 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 Dustproof Red linear switch is known for its quiet operation, lacking the distinctive click that the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is famous for. The Purple Click switch provides a crunchy and resonant sound profile that is often associated with clicky switches, offering a satisfying auditory experience with every key press. It's important to consider that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by various factors, such as the keyboard's build and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Red switch's tactile qualities are not widely recognized. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch is praised for its invigorating feedback and moderate to firm actuation force, providing a snappy and reactive typing experience. Additionally, the stepped feel of the Purple Click switch adds a unique element to the typing sensation, offering a more nuanced keystroke experience compared to other tactile switches.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Red and KTT Purple Click switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dustproof Red switch provides a quiet linear typing experience, while the Purple Click switch delivers a high-pitched and satisfying click alongside an invigorating and stepped tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and typing feedback, with both switches offering unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback or audible click, the Dustproof Red switch with its medium bottom out force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a satisfying, high-pitched click with light keystrokes and pronounced tactility, the Purple Click switch would be a better option. Additionally, if you appreciate a crunchy and resonant sound profile, along with an invigorating and stepped feel while typing, the Purple Click switch may provide a more immersive and enjoyable typing experience for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you desire.
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