Outemu Purple vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Purple and KTT Pine offer unique experiences for different typing preferences. The Outemu Purple is a tactile switch with a reputation for its smoothness and is categorized as such. On the other hand, the KTT Pine is a linear switch boasting features such as a medium-heavy actuation force, smooth key travel, and a factory-lubed finish that reduces friction. The Pine is best known for its bassy, buttery, creamy, low-pitched characteristics. While the Purple may appeal to those who prefer tactile feedback, the Pine may interest users seeking a smooth and effortless typing experience. Let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Purple and the KTT Pine switches, it is clear that both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for being a relatively stiff plastic, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. Although both switches share this feature in common, the difference lies in the bottom housing material.
While the Outemu Purple features a nylon bottom housing, the KTT Pine utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches with nylon housing. On the other hand, the use of polycarbonate in the bottom housing of the KTT Pine contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material will affect the overall sound and feel of each switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches like Outemu Purple and KTT Pine plays a significant role in determining their sound profile and feel. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing, the difference in bottom housing material leads to variations in sound quality. The nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Purple creates a deeper sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the KTT Pine results in a sharper sound. Understanding how each housing material affects the overall performance of a switch can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force is lighter in the Pine switch at 45 grams compared to the 50 grams required for the Purple switch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Pine switch is heavier at 58 grams compared to the unknown bottom out force of the Purple switch. The actuation force is crucial for determining the ease of triggering a keystroke, with the Pine switch requiring slightly less force. On the other hand, the bottom out force impacts the overall typing experience, with the Pine switch providing a more substantial feel. Ultimately, individuals who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Pine switch for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a heavier bottom out force may opt for the Purple switch for a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Purple tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equally responsive in terms of keypress depth. This means that when typing on a keyboard with either switch, users will experience a similar level of key travel. The similarity in travel distance indicates that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the keys must be pressed down. This can result in a comparable typing feel and responsiveness for users who prefer either switch type. Overall, whether using the Outemu Purple tactile switch or the KTT Pine linear switch, users can expect a similar level of key travel and tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine 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 tactile switch is known for a neutral sound profile that doesn't lean towards any specific characteristic. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch has a bassy and low-pitched sound, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Depending on your personal preference and setup, the Purple may provide a more versatile sound experience, while the Pine switch may offer a more distinct and satisfying auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Purple tactile switch lacks a specific descriptor for its tactile sensation, which suggests a moderate and balanced tactile feedback without any extreme characteristics. In contrast, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is effortless and uniform. If you prefer a more tactile feel, the Purple switch may be the better choice, but if you prioritize a smoother and more consistent typing sensation, the Pine switch would be a great option.
Overall, both the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Purple switch provides a versatile sound profile and a moderate tactile feedback, while the Pine switch delivers a satisfying bassy sound and a creamy, buttery typing experience. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both, you can make an informed decision on which switch better suits your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches can provide a high-quality typing experience, so you can expect similar results in terms of performance and durability regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter touch with no specified bottom out force, the Purple switch would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 58 grams for a more tactile typing experience, the Pine switch would be a better option. Additionally, if you are looking for a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, the Pine switch with its bassy and low-pitched characteristics might be more appealing to you. However, if you prioritize a buttery and creamy typing experience with smooth and fluid key travel, the Purple switch might be the better fit for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing style and preference for key feel and sound.
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