Outemu Purple vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Purple, a tactile switch, and the KTT Strawberry, a linear switch. The Outemu Purple switch is best known for its tactile feedback without any audible click, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is beloved for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, thanks to its low-pitched, frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished design. While the Purple switch offers tactile feedback, the Strawberry switch provides a more linear typing experience. 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
62g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Purple and the KTT Strawberry, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the Purple has a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Strawberry features a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining consistency in achieving a sharper and crisper sound profile throughout the switch.
Although both the Outemu Purple and KTT Strawberry feature the same polycarbonate top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The Purple's nylon bottom housing provides a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and clear sound profile established by the top housing material. This difference in bottom housing material may contribute to variations in sound and feel when typing on each switch, as the bottom housing plays a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel compared to the top housing.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Purple and KTT Strawberry housing materials comes down to personal preference in sound profile and feel while typing. The Purple offers a combination of polycarbonate and nylon for a mix of sharpness and depth in sound, while the Strawberry maintains consistency with polycarbonate throughout for a uniform sound profile. Both switches have their unique qualities attributed to their housing materials, with the top and bottom housings contributing different aspects to the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a softer, fuller sound or a sharper, crisper sound, both switches offer distinct characteristics to cater to individual preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Purple tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the KTT Strawberry linear switch which has an actuation force of 43 grams, making the Strawberry a lighter option. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Purple switch has an unknown value while the Strawberry switch requires 62 grams, which is medium. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the KTT Strawberry switch, as its lower actuation force can lead to less fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switch may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it is evident that both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that regardless of which switch is chosen, the user will experience a similar keypress sensation in terms of travel distance. Both switches offer a standard key travel distance, providing a consistent and familiar typing experience for users. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches allows for users to transition seamlessly between them without experiencing significant differences in key feel. Ultimately, whether using the Outemu Purple tactile switch or the KTT Strawberry linear switch, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Purple comes in at $3.10, whereas the KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91.
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 Purple tactile switch is known for a lack of distinctive sound characteristics. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is celebrated for its low-pitched sound profile, which offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Purple tactile switch does not have any specific feel descriptors. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is praised for its frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel. These descriptors highlight the exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience provided by the Strawberry switch. The combination of these qualities results in a seamless, uniform, and refined typing sensation for users.
Overall, while the Outemu Purple tactile switch may not have specific sound or feel characteristics attributed to it, the KTT Strawberry linear switch stands out for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, low-pitched sound profile, and reliable performance. Depending on personal preferences, the Purple may offer a more neutral typing experience, while the Strawberry promises a more luxurious and fluid typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches have their strengths and are capable of delivering a satisfying typing experience for users, with the Strawberry standing out for its well-defined qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a light bottom out force and are looking for a switch known for its unique characteristics, the Outemu Purple may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and are seeking a switch known for its smooth actuation and comfortable feel, the KTT Strawberry could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing experience.
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