KTT Purple Click vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Click and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Purple Click and the SP-Star RedBlue. The Purple Click is best known for its satisfying high-pitched click and light keystrokes, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience without being overwhelmed. On the other hand, the RedBlue switches offer a medium-light typing experience and a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and advantages, 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
18mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Purple Click and SP-Star RedBlue switches share several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the top housings of both switches are translucent, making them ideal for users who plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic experiences when using either switch.
However, the differences arise in the choice of housing material for the bottom housings. The Purple Click employs a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the RedBlue opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning with the characteristics of its top housing. This choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile.
When comparing the two switches, it becomes evident that the qualities brought by each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This distinction allows users to have a versatile typing experience, where the specific sound characteristics can be fine-tuned according to their preference.
In conclusion, while both the KTT Purple Click and SP-Star RedBlue switches utilize polycarbonate top housings, they differ in their choice of bottom housing materials. The Purple Click uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the RedBlue sticks with polycarbonate for a sharper and higher-pitched sound. However, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits from the use of polycarbonate in the top housings, along with the versatility offered by the distinct qualities of their bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it becomes evident that the Purple Click is the lighter option. With an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, the Purple Click provides a medium-light experience. In contrast, the actuation force of the RedBlue switch is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 57 grams, also falling within the medium-light category. While the precise actuation force of the RedBlue switch is not disclosed, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of bottom out force. The difference lies in the lighter actuation force of the Purple Click, making it more appealing to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, for individuals seeking a more substantial and forceful typing experience, the RedBlue switch may be a better choice due to its slightly higher bottom out force. Overall, the weight of the switches plays a significant role, catering to different preferences and needs of users.
Travel distance
The KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a similar travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches offer the same tactile experience in terms of the distance it travels from the top to the bottom, it's important to note that the KTT Purple Click is a clicky switch, meaning it produces an audible click sound when pressed, while the SP-Star RedBlue is a linear switch, offering a smooth and quiet keystroke. So, if you are looking for a shorter travel distance and a clicky sound, the KTT Purple Click is the way to go, while if you prefer a linear switch with the same travel distance, the SP-Star RedBlue is an excellent choice.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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
The Purple Click switch is known for its fairly high-pitched and satisfying click sound. It has a light keystroke with a pronounced tactility that strikes a perfect balance without overwhelming the user. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch offers a relatively higher-pitched sound profile that is low-pitched and neutral in nature. The RedBlue switch falls into a safe and middle-ground zone, providing a more gentle typing experience suitable for most users. It also produces a satisfying "thocky" sound when pressed, similar to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock." Overall, the Purple Click switch provides a more invigorating and stepped feel, giving pronounced feedback, while the RedBlue switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. Both switches offer unique attributes in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a satisfying, high-pitched click and light but tactile keystrokes, the KTT Purple Click switch would be an excellent choice. Its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams strikes a perfect balance between ease of typing and noticeable feedback. In terms of sound, the Purple Click offers a crunchy and resonant experience, reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. As for feel, this switch provides an invigorating and stepped sensation, adding to the immersive typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch would be a great fit. With a bottom out force of 57 grams, it maintains that comfortable medium-light feel while offering a clean and sharp auditory experience. The RedBlue switch is also described as low-pitched and neutral, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. In terms of feel, the RedBlue switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, making it approachable to most users with its safe, middle-ground qualities.
Ultimately, your choice between these two switches would depend on your preference for clicky switches and pronounced tactile feedback (Purple Click) or a linear switch with a neutral sound profile and a more gentle typing experience (RedBlue). Consider your personal preferences, whether you prioritize sound or feel, and the type of typing experience you desire when selecting between the KTT Purple Click and the SP-Star RedBlue switches.
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