Outemu Purple vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Purple and KTT Phalaenopsis mechanical keyboard switches, both options offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Purple switch is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch stands out with its beautiful translucent design and light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The 50g tactile force of the Phalaenopsis switch ensures a delightful typing experience with a discernible tactile bump. 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
50g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Purple and KTT Phalaenopsis switches, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, leading to a more resonant sound and making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Purple features a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis.
The difference in bottom housing material between the Outemu Purple and KTT Phalaenopsis switches significantly affects the sound and feel of typing on the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Purple contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis adds to the sharper, higher-pitched sound characteristic of polycarbonate. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing, whether polycarbonate for both switches, plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key.
In conclusion, while both the Outemu Purple and KTT Phalaenopsis switches feature polycarbonate top housing for a crisper sound profile, the difference in bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound characteristics. The nylon bottom housing of the Purple creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis emphasizes a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Understanding the impact of different housing materials on sound profiles can help keyboard enthusiasts choose the switch that best suits their preferences for typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is evident that they have differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Purple has an actuation force of 50 grams, making it heavier than the KTT Phalaenopsis which has an actuation force of 37 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Outemu Purple's force is unknown while the KTT Phalaenopsis has a bottom out force of 50 grams. The difference in actuation force means that the Outemu Purple will require more force to trigger a keystroke compared to the KTT Phalaenopsis, which may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of key travel. This similarity ensures that you will get consistent results in terms of key press feel and responsiveness when using either switch. So, in terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
The Outemu Purple 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 Purple switch is not specifically known for any particular sound characteristics. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is described as having a bassy and thocky sound profile. This means that the Phalaenopsis switch offers a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound produced by the Phalaenopsis switch can be likened to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Purple switch does not have any specific feel descriptors provided. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch is described as having a stepped feel. This means that the Phalaenopsis switch provides a tactile experience that feels like it has two stages. Unlike hyper-tactile switches that offer a big bump throughout the keystroke, stepped switches like the Phalaenopsis switch offer a more mild tactile feedback, where users can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during key presses.
Overall, while the Outemu Purple and KTT Phalaenopsis switches differ in their sound and feel characteristics, both switches offer a tactile typing experience. If you are looking for a switch with a more distinct sound profile, the Phalaenopsis switch may be more suitable due to its bassy and thocky sound qualities. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a stepped tactile feel, the Phalaenopsis switch would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is important to consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a lighter actuation force of 37g, minimal finger fatigue during long typing sessions, and a discernible tactile bump for a delightful typing experience, then the Phalaenopsis switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a unique sound profile, such as a deeper and richer bass tone, and enjoy a switch with a stepped feel for a more mild tactile experience, then the Purple switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific qualities that you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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