Outemu Red vs. KTT Purple Click

Overview

When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Red linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Outemu Red switch is best known for its smooth and constant keystrokes, providing a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch is famous for its high-pitched and satisfying click sound, offering a more tactile typing feel. While the Red switch is categorized as a linear switch, the Purple Click switch falls into the clicky switch category. If you prefer a more traditional and uninterrupted typing experience, the Outemu Red switch might be the way to go. However, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile response and a satisfying click sound, the KTT Purple Click switch could be the better option for you. Keep in mind that these are just general pointers, and to truly determine the best switch for your needs, a deeper dive into their specific characteristics is necessary.

By the numbers

Outemu Red Linear

KTT Purple Click Clicky

$3.10 per 10

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

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Housing materials

The Outemu Red and KTT Purple Click both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness leads to a more resonant sound, making it ideal for users looking for a clear and distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through brilliantly. Both switches offer a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal due to their polycarbonate top housings.

In terms of bottom housings, both the Outemu Red and KTT Purple Click utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the material's softness which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, offering users a different typing experience compared to the sharper sound profile created by the top polycarbonate housing. Despite their different top housings, the switches share the qualities of the nylon bottom housing, impacting the overall typing experience.

The split between the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Red and KTT Purple Click allows users to experience a combination of the unique qualities each housing material brings to the switch. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a distinct typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the nylon material. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, contributing to the sharp, high-pitched, and clear sound profile associated with polycarbonate material. This split design offers users a well-rounded typing experience with a balance of different sound profiles and tactile feedback.

Weight

Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it is evident that both switches fall into the medium range in terms of force required for actuation and bottoming out. The Outemu Red has a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Purple Click's 40 grams, making the Red switch slightly heavier in this aspect. Similarly, the Red switch also has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the Purple Click's 55 grams, indicating that the Red switch requires more force to fully press the key. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the KTT Purple Click switch, while those desiring a bit more resistance might lean towards the Outemu Red switch. Despite these differences in force requirements, both switches provide a tactile typing experience that is suitable for various preferences.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Outemu Red linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is the same at 4 mm. Both switches require the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom, providing a consistent typing experience for users. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation regardless of which switch they choose. Both switches offer a relatively shorter travel distance compared to other switches on the market, which can result in faster typing speeds and reduced finger fatigue. In conclusion, while the travel distance of the Outemu Red and KTT Purple Click switches may be the same, their respective characteristics may differ, with the Red being a linear switch and the Purple Click being a clicky switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Red linear switch is known for its quiet operation, making it a popular choice for those looking for a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is celebrated for its pronounced high-pitched click that adds a satisfying auditory element to typing. The Purple Click's sound profile is described as crunchy and resonant, creating an immersive and engaging typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Red switch is often praised for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, offering a linear typing experience without any tactile feedback. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click switch is known for its invigorating feel, providing pronounced tactile feedback and moderate to firm actuation force. Additionally, the Purple Click is described as having a stepped feel, where the keystroke has distinct stages of pre-travel and post-travel, adding to the overall typing sensation.

Taking all the available information into consideration, it is evident that the Outemu Red linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch offer contrasting experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Red switch provides a quiet and linear typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a more subtle operation. Meanwhile, the Purple Click switch delivers a satisfying, crunchy click and invigorating tactile feedback, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more engaging typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, with both options promising a reliable and enjoyable typing experience.

Conclusion

In summary, when deciding between Outemu Red linear switches and KTT Purple Click clicky switches, you should choose the Outemu Red if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a smooth keystroke experience. This switch is ideal for those who do not want any audible feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light bottom out force with a distinctive high-pitched click sound, the KTT Purple Click switch is the way to go. This switch offers a satisfying tactile feedback without being too overwhelming, giving you a unique typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

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KTT Purple Click Clicky

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

Learn more