Outemu Spring Breeze vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Outemu Spring Breeze and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Outemu Spring Breeze, a clicky switch, and the KTT Purple Star, a linear switch. The Spring Breeze is best known for its clicky sound and tactile feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy the audible feedback. On the other hand, the Purple Star shines with its all-POM construction, offering a smooth and quiet typing experience that is gentle on the hands. The light 45g bottom-out of the Purple Star makes it a great choice for light typists seeking comfort and ease of use. 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
40g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
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
Both the Outemu Spring Breeze and KTT Purple Star switches feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Spring Breeze's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Purple Star's POM top housing produces a more muted and pleasing sound. In terms of typing experience, the nylon top housing of the Spring Breeze may provide a smoother and softer feel compared to the POM top housing of the Purple Star.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing materials, both switches share similar qualities due to their respective nylon and POM housings. The nylon bottom housing of the Spring Breeze and the POM bottom housing of the Purple Star both contribute to a deeper sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound. Typing on switches with these materials may result in a more consistent sound and feel across different keys.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Spring Breeze and KTT Purple Star switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. While the nylon and POM top housings offer contrasting sound characteristics, the nylon and POM bottom housings provide a similar deep and muted sound. Whether you prefer a softer, fuller sound or a more pleasing, unique sound, both switches offer unique housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the Spring Breeze is lighter overall. The actuation force of the Spring Breeze is 40 grams, while the Purple Star has an actuation force of 43 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Spring Breeze requires 55 grams, whereas the Purple Star only needs 50 grams. Both switches provide a tactile typing experience, with the Spring Breeze offering a slightly lighter touch compared to the Purple Star. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Purple Star may be the preferable choice, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may opt for the Spring Breeze. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Spring Breeze offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Purple Star. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Spring Breeze is more traditional, providing a deeper key press experience, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the 3.5mm travel distance of the Purple Star is slightly shorter, offering a quicker response time that may be preferred by gamers or those looking for a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Spring Breeze 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch is known for its specific sound profile, which provides a distinct auditory feedback during key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch is recognized for its low-pitched sound, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. When comparing the two, the Spring Breeze switch may provide a crisper and more pronounced clicking noise, while the Purple Star switch offers a smoother and more neutral sound signature. However, it's important to note that the overall sound experience is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps being used.
When it comes to the typing feel, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch does not have a specific feel associated with it. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch is described as providing a mild and easy-to-press typing experience. These switches offer a gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate, which can result in effortless and comfortable typing sessions. The light actuation force of the Purple Star switch enhances the overall typing experience by reducing finger fatigue and providing a responsive and low-impact feel consistently across typing sessions.
Overall, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Spring Breeze switch may appeal to users looking for a crisper clicky sound, the Purple Star switch stands out with its smooth and gentle typing experience. Both switches have their unique characteristics, catering to different preferences in terms of audio feedback and typing comfort. Ultimately, choosing between the two would largely depend on individual preferences and typing habits to ensure optimal typing satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch or the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force and looking for a clicky switch, the Spring Breeze would be a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom-out force and a smooth typing experience with minimal sound, the Purple Star switch would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your typing preferences and whether you prioritize a clicky feel or a smooth linear experience. Consider your typing habits and needs to determine which switch will best suit you.
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