Outemu Silent White vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent White and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing and contrasting two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent White and the KTT Purple Star, both linear switches have their own unique qualities to offer. The silent white is best known for its quiet operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the purple star switches stand out for their smooth typing feel and light 45g bottom-out, which is perfect for users who enjoy a gentle and effortless typing sensation. While the silent white is categorized as quiet, the purple star is categorized as mild, low-pitched, and easy-to-press. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that make them appealing to different users. 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
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent White and the KTT Purple Star, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles. The Silent White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharp, higher-pitched sound, while the Purple Star uses a POM top housing for a deeper and more muted sound. Both materials have their specific advantages, with polycarbonate providing a clearer and resonant sound, while POM offers a more distinctive and pleasing tone. In terms of aesthetics, polycarbonate's translucency is ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall visual appeal.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Silent White features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Purple Star utilizes a POM bottom housing, which also creates a deeper and more muted sound. Despite the differences in material, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience with unique sound characteristics. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, emphasizing the importance of a well-designed housing for overall switch performance.
While the top and bottom housings may be made from different materials for each switch, they both offer distinct qualities that contribute to the overall sound profile. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether using polycarbonate and nylon in the Outemu Silent White or POM in the KTT Purple Star, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with each switch's unique blend of sound characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between these housing materials may come down to personal preference and the desired sound profile for different typing tasks.
Weight
The Outemu Silent White linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Purple Star linear switch, which has an actuation force of 43 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Silent White requires 60 grams, while the Purple Star only needs 50 grams. This makes the Purple Star the lighter option overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Purple Star may be the better choice as it allows for more extended typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Silent White may be more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a slightly heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Silent White linear switch is 3.3 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Purple Star has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Silent White. In the realm of switch comparisons, a 0.2 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing experience. If you prefer a switch with a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Silent White may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth to each keystroke, the Purple Star may provide the added tactile feedback you're looking for. Ultimately, both switches offer a balance of speed and tactility, so you'll likely get similar results in terms of overall performance regardless of which one you choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silent White 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 Silent White switches are known for their quiet operation with no specific sound descriptor provided. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switches are described as having a low-pitched sound profile, which typically translates to a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silent White switches do not have a specific feel descriptor provided. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star switches are described as offering a mild typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. These switches are also noted for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a light actuation that makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions.
Considering the available information, the Outemu Silent White and KTT Purple Star switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Silent White switches provide a quiet typing experience, while the Purple Star switches deliver a smooth and gentle feel with an easy-to-press actuation. If you are looking for a subdued typing sound and a comfortable typing feel, the Silent White switches may be more suitable. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched sound and an easy-to-press typing experience, the Purple Star switches could be the better choice. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a crucial role in selecting the right switch for your needs.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, you should consider the bottom out force and your typing preference. If you prefer a slightly heavier key feel, the Silent White with its 60g bottom out force may be more suitable for you. However, if you are looking for a lighter typing experience and enjoy a buttery smooth feel with a low-pitched sound, the Purple Star with its 50g bottom out force and all-POM construction would be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing style and comfort preferences.
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