Outemu Purple vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Purple offers a tactile typing experience that provides a satisfying bump with every key press. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star features a linear design that offers a smooth typing experience with a light 45g bottom-out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a light touch. While the Outemu Purple is known for its tactile feedback, the KTT Purple Star is praised for its buttery smooth typing experience and neutral sound signature. Choosing between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
The Outemu Purple switch features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star uses a POM top housing, resulting in a sound profile on the deeper side that is relatively more muted. While both housings offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Purple is better suited for those looking for a sharper and more vibrant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Outemu Purple utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the KTT Purple Star also uses a POM bottom housing, contributing to a deeper and more muted sound profile. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the qualities of their bottom housing material, with the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Purple providing a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM bottom housing of the KTT Purple Star.
Overall, while the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Purple and the KTT Purple Star differ in material, they both aim to create unique and pleasing sound profiles. The split between the bottom and top housings allows for distinct characteristics in the typing experience of each switch. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile with the Outemu Purple or a deeper, more muted sound with the KTT Purple Star, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that cater to different sound preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Purple tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the lighter 43 grams actuation force of the KTT Purple Star linear switch. The bottom out force of the Outemu Purple is unknown, while the KTT Purple Star has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a bit heavier. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the KTT Purple Star may be the better option, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, if a more substantial typing feel is desired, the Outemu Purple with its higher actuation force may be the preferred pick. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press weight and feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Outemu Purple has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the KTT Purple Star. The increased travel distance on the Outemu Purple may provide a more pronounced tactile feedback when typing, while the shorter travel distance on the KTT Purple Star may offer a quicker response time, making it preferred by gamers for its speed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of desired travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Purple 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Purple switches do not have a specific descriptor provided, making it hard to pinpoint their exact sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switches are known for their low-pitched sound, which typically offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Purple switches lack a specific description provided, making it challenging to determine their exact tactile feel. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switches are described as mild and easy-to-press. This means that they provide a gentle typing experience with minimal resistance during key presses, requiring little force to activate. This feature makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions.
In conclusion, the KTT Purple Star switches stand out for their smooth and easy-to-press feel, as well as their low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switches do not have specific descriptors provided for their sound and feel qualities. If you are looking for a tactile typing experience with a more pronounced feel, the KTT Purple Star switches could be a great choice. However, if you prefer a switch with an unknown sound and feel profile, the Outemu Purple switches may still provide a satisfactory typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, you should consider your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a switch with no bottom out force and are looking for a versatile option, the Outemu Purple may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and enjoy a smooth typing experience with easy-to-press keys, the KTT Purple Star may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for. Consider what features are most important to you and choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences for an optimal typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
