KTT Purple Star vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Star and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Purple Star and TTC Silent Brown represent two distinct approaches that cater to different typing preferences. The KTT Purple Star, a linear switch, is celebrated for its all-POM construction, which creates an exceptionally smooth typing experience complemented by a neutral sound signature. With a light 45g bottom-out force, it is particularly suited for light typists seeking comfort and ease during prolonged use. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown switch features a tactile design that provides a satisfying rounded bump, offering a comfortable typing experience with a light to medium level of resistance. Its muted sound profile further enhances concentration by minimizing noise, making it an excellent choice for office environments or shared spaces. While both switches have unique advantages—one prioritizing smoothness and lightness and the other focusing on tactile feedback and sound dampening—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Purple Star and the TTC Silent Brown, it becomes clear that they differ significantly in both composition and resulting sound profiles. The Purple Star features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound, creating a warm auditory experience that many typists find appealing. In contrast, the Silent Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer structure, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This distinction in materials leads to a contrasting auditory experience when typing, with the Purple Star favoring a more subdued tone while the Silent Brown delivers a more resonant feedback, particularly advantageous for those who appreciate a lively keypress.
Looking at the bottom housings reveals further differences in the switch design. The Purple Star’s bottom housing is also made of POM, which, like its top counterpart, contributes to a consistent deeper and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent Brown adopts a nylon bottom housing, known for its softer plastic quality that absorbs sound more effectively. This results in a fuller and rounder sound when typing, creating a more dampened experience compared to the sharper tones generated by the other materials. Thus, while both switches aim to enhance the typing experience, the choice of materials results in distinct auditory feedback that can satisfy different preferences.
Ultimately, the interaction of the top and bottom housings plays a critical role in the overall sound and feel of each switch. The POM construction of the Purple Star, both top and bottom, creates a uniform sound that leans towards the muted side. Conversely, the contrasting polycarbonate top and nylon bottom of the Silent Brown ensures that the qualities of each material influence the overall typing experience differently; the top housing affects the release sound while the bottom housing dictates the bottom-out feel. However, while the KTT Purple Star offers a consistent, deep sound profile through its POM materials, the TTC Silent Brown provides a more dynamic contrast between layers, ultimately yielding varied auditory responses depending on user preference.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Purple Star features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which contributes to a more effortless typing experience, ideal for prolonged usage. In contrast, the Silent Brown requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a significantly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This makes the Silent Brown a medium-heavy option that may appeal to users who favor a more substantial tactile sensation while typing. Thus, those seeking ease and comfort during long typing sessions would prefer the lighter Purple Star, while those desiring a firmer push and a more definitive keystroke feedback should opt for the heavier Silent Brown switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is clear that they differ, with the Purple Star having a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Silent Brown measures at 3.8 mm. This difference might influence the user experience significantly; those seeking quick response times, such as gamers, may gravitate toward the Purple Star due to its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster actuation. Conversely, the Silent Brown's longer travel distance may appeal to users who appreciate a more substantial feel with each keystroke, as it offers a deeper, more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference regarding responsiveness versus depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
The KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88 per 10 switches.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, both deliver distinct auditory experiences. The Purple Star features a low-pitched sound signature that contributes to a bass-heavy, mellow tone, making it less intrusive during typing sessions. Conversely, the Silent Brown produces a muted sound profile that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. While both switches are designed for quieter operations, the Purple Star’s low pitch offers a smoother, more resonant experience, whereas the Silent Brown’s muted nature adds an additional layer of discretion, beneficial for quiet environments.
In terms of feel, the KTT Purple Star offers a mild and easy-to-press typing experience. With its very light 45g bottom-out force, it is perfect for typists who prefer minimal resistance, ensuring a comfortable session with a gentle activation that reduces finger fatigue. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown boasts a buttery smooth feel accompanied by a tactile bump, providing a satisfying feedback experience without overwhelming resistance. Both switches are classified as mild, making them accessible to a wider audience, yet the Silent Brown provides a more nuanced tactile sensation, appealing to users who enjoy feedback without the clickiness often found in other switches.
In conclusion, both the KTT Purple Star and TTC Silent Brown switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel while maintaining some similarities. The Purple Star is ideal for those who appreciate a smooth, low-pitched typing experience, while the Silent Brown is perfect for users seeking a tactile feel coupled with a muted sound signature. Ultimately, regardless of the switch chosen, both options promise a comfortable typing experience but fulfill different auditory and tactile desires, allowing typists to select based on their specific needs and environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, when it comes to choosing between the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, your personal typing preferences and intended use will be key factors in your decision. If you prefer a very light touch with a fluid typing experience, especially for extensive typing sessions or gaming, the KTT Purple Star is a compelling choice. Its low actuation force and smooth feel can enhance comfort and reduce finger fatigue, making it ideal for those who enjoy seamless keypresses and a neutral, low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, if you appreciate the tactile feedback that a switch can provide while still keeping noise levels minimal, the TTC Silent Brown is a great option. Its medium-heavy resistance and satisfying tactile bump cater well to typists who like to feel their keystrokes, while its muted sound profile ensures a quieter typing experience—perfect for shared or quiet environments. In essence, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize a lighter, more effortless typing action or the tactile sensation and deeper resistance offered by the Silent Browns.
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