KTT Purple Star vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Star and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, one may consider the KTT Purple Star and the TTC Speed Silver, both linear switches with their own unique qualities. The Purple Star switches are praised for their all-POM construction, providing a buttery smooth typing experience with a light 45g bottom-out ideal for light typists. In contrast, the Speed Silvers offer a fast and precise typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and reduced travel distance for quick actuation. The Purple Star is categorized as mild, low-pitched, and easy-to-press, while the Speed Silver is labeled as neutral, mild, and polished. Each switch offers its own advantages, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you make the best decision for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
The housing materials of the KTT Purple Star and the TTC Speed Silver both play a significant role in the sound profile of the switches. The Purple Star utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a deep and muted sound profile. In contrast, the Speed Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound compared to the Purple Star. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for better RGB lighting diffusion, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Purple Star and the Speed Silver differ once again. The Purple Star's POM bottom housing maintains the deep and muted sound profile, while the Speed Silver's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller and deeper sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM bottom housing of the Purple Star. These differences in bottom housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and sound feedback of the switches.
While the housing materials of the KTT Purple Star and TTC Speed Silver offer distinct sound profiles, it's important to note how each material contributes to the switch's overall performance. The split between top and bottom housing materials means that the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both switches can provide satisfying typing experiences based on the preferences of the user. Whether you prefer a deeper, more muted sound like that of the Purple Star with its POM housings, or a sharper and crisper sound from the polycarbonate and nylon housings of the Speed Silver, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The KTT Purple Star linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the TTC Speed Silver linear switch. The Purple Star requires 43 grams of force to actuate a keystroke, while the Speed Silver requires 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Purple Star requires 50 grams, whereas the Speed Silver requires 55 grams. The Purple Star switch is lighter overall, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch provides a slightly stronger push feel, which may be preferred by users looking for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide different levels of force, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing or gaming.
Travel distance
The KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular for gaming due to faster response times. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - if you prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Purple Star may be more suitable with its longer travel distance. On the other hand, if you prefer a quicker and more abrupt key press, the Speed Silver may be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance and would likely provide a satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Purple Star linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, which typically features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch provides a neutral sound signature, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps being used, so individual preferences may vary.
As for feel, both the KTT Purple Star and TTC Speed Silver switches are described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel for most users. The Purple Star is highlighted for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate, enhancing typing comfort and reducing finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is noted for its polished feel, providing smooth and refined key travel resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction.
Overall, while the KTT Purple Star and TTC Speed Silver linear switches offer different sound profiles, the feel of both switches falls within the mild and approachable category. Whether you prefer the low-pitched sound of the Purple Star or the neutral sound of the Speed Silver, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience suitable for light typists and those seeking fast and precise actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to individual preferences in sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, consider your typing preferences. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the Purple Star may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience with a slightly higher actuation force and a pristine sound profile, the Speed Silver may be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a lighter touch and smooth feel (Purple Star) or a faster actuation and precise typing experience (Speed Silver).
Mentioned in this article
