KTT Purple Star vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Star and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Purple Star and the Dareu Snow mechanical keyboard switches, we find two linear switches with some notable differences. The Purple Star offers a buttery smooth typing experience with its all-POM construction and light 45g bottom-out force, making it perfect for light typists seeking ease and comfort. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch stands out for its innovative use of POK material, providing a deeper sound signature and a bouncy feel. While the Purple Star is categorized as 'Mild' and 'Easy-to-press', the Snow switch is 'Thocky' and 'Bouncy'. These general pointers can help you decide which switch might be best for your typing preferences; 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
43g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Purple Star and Dareu Snow both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile and durability. While the Purple Star utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, the Snow incorporates POK for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. POM is known for creating a pleasing and unique sound with a deeper tone, while POK is praised for its smoothness and durability, being much stronger and more wear-resistant than POM. Nylon, on the other hand, absorbs more sound and creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to POM.
The difference in housing materials between the Purple Star and Snow can result in distinct typing experiences for users. The POM housing in the Purple Star contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the POK housing in the Snow provides a smoother and clackier feel. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing in the Snow absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM bottom housing in the Purple Star. Users may prefer the sound and feel of one switch over the other based on these material differences.
When comparing the top and bottom housing materials of the Purple Star and Snow, it's important to note how each contributes to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This distinction means that the POM top and bottom housing in the Purple Star will result in a consistent sound profile throughout the typing process, while the POK and nylon housing combination in the Snow may offer a more varied typing experience with differences in sound and feel between pressing and releasing keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is evident that the Purple Star is the lighter option. The Purple Star has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a slightly heavier feel compared to the Purple Star. For those who enjoy a stronger push feel while typing, the Snow would be the better choice. Both switches provide differing levels of resistance, with the Purple Star offering a lighter touch and the Snow providing a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Purple Star linear switch is 3.5mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers seeking faster response times. The difference of 0.2mm between the two may not be significant for everyone, but for those who are sensitive to slight variations, the Purple Star offers a slightly longer travel distance. Some users may find this extra depth more satisfying, while others may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Snow for a quicker keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and desired responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 it comes to sound, the KTT Purple Star linear switch offers a low-pitched tone that is bass-heavy and mellow, creating a soothing typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Snow linear switch provides a thocky sound profile, producing a deep and satisfying thud when the keys are pressed and released. However, both switches share a low-pitched sound characteristic, which means that users can expect a more bass-heavy tone from either option. It is important to note that the sound profile of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Purple Star switch is known for its mild and easy-to-press characteristics, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback that enhances the typing sensation with a lively feel and rebound effect. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, albeit through different tactile feedback mechanisms. Users can expect a responsive and low-impact typing feel from both switches, catering to a wide range of typing preferences.
In conclusion, the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different typing preferences. While the Purple Star switch provides a smoother and lighter typing experience with a low-pitched sound signature, the Snow switch offers a deeper thocky sound profile and a bouncy feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between these two switches to enhance their overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches aim to provide comfort, ease of use, and a satisfying typing sensation, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Purple Star linear switch or the Dareu Snow linear switch, it really comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a keyboard switch. If you prefer a very light typing experience with a low-pitched sound signature, the Purple Star would be the way to go, especially if you are a light typist looking for ease and comfort. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom-out force with a deeper, thocky sound profile and a bouncy feel, the Snow switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what characteristics matter most to you in a keyboard switch before making a decision.
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