KTT Purple Star vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Star and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Purple Star and the Huano Strawberry Latte both offer unique benefits, yet cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Purple Star switches are celebrated for their all-POM construction, resulting in a buttery smooth typing feel alongside a neutral sound signature. With a very light 45g bottom-out force, these switches are particularly well-suited for lighter typists seeking a comfortable and effortless keypress. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte switches provide a super smooth experience thanks to their latest mold technology, featuring a balanced sound profile that strikes a comfortable middle ground—not too quiet nor overly resonant. While both switches classify as linear and provide satisfying typing experiences, their sound profiles and tactile feedback will resonate differently with individual users. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Purple Star and the Huano Strawberry Latte, several notable differences emerge, particularly regarding the top housings. The Purple Star features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which produces a sound profile that is deeper and relatively muted. This creation of an appealing and unique sound is attributed to the characteristics of POM, which is known for its sturdy nature while allowing some acoustic dampening. Conversely, the Strawberry Latte utilizes a POK (polyketone) top housing that, while also contributing to a smooth typing experience, significantly differs in sound profile. POK, with a slightly higher coefficient of friction, lends itself to a clackier sound, creating an engaging auditory feedback that sharpens the typing sensation. Thus, while both materials facilitate excellent typing experiences, their sound profiles diverge distinctly, shaping the acoustic character each switch produces.
The bottom housing materials further emphasize the contrast between these two switches. The Purple Star employs a bottom housing made of POM, mirroring the top housing's capabilities. This combination allows for a consistent sound profile that resonates with deeper, more muted tones, which many users find appealing. Conversely, the Strawberry Latte's bottom housing is constructed from nylon, a classic material renowned for its ability to absorb sound effectively. This characteristic gives the nylon housing a deeper and fuller auditory response, complemented by its softer nature that contributes to a duller and rounder sound. Consequently, while both switches utilize robust materials to create their respective profiles, the variance in bottom housing leads to different acoustic and tactile experiences during use.
Though the KTT Purple Star and the Huano Strawberry Latte use different materials for both top and bottom housings, there is a notable interplay between sound qualities that allows users to achieve favorable results with each switch type. In cases where the top and bottom housings differ, the overall sound and feel during key presses will reflect the unique properties of each material. The Purple Star, with its homogenous POM housing, delivers a more cohesive muted sound, while the Strawberry Latte's combination of a clacky POK top and deeper-toned nylon bottom creates a layered acoustic experience. By understanding these distinctions, users can better select switches that align with their preferences for typing feel and sound, regardless of the differences in housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, both options fall into the light category, but they differ slightly in specifications. The Purple Star has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Strawberry Latte features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This indicates that the Huano Strawberry Latte is the lighter option, making it better suited for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for long hours of work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star provides a heavier feel, which may appeal to users looking for a more substantial tactile experience. Overall, while both switches are designed for lighter performance, the Strawberry Latte will deliver a softer touch than the Purple Star, making it preferable for those who value lightness over resistance.
Travel distance
The KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch exhibit slight differences in their travel distances, which can influence the typing feel and responsiveness of each. The Purple Star has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Strawberry Latte offers a slightly longer distance of 3.6 mm. This minor variation means that if you prefer a quicker response time, the Purple Star is the more suitable choice due to its shorter travel distance. Conversely, if you desire a more substantial feel while typing, the Strawberry Latte may be more appealing because of its greater travel distance. Both switches fall within the modern trend of shorter travel distances favored by gamers but cater to slightly different preferences regarding depth and feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
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 switches exhibit a low-pitched tone, providing a bass-heavy and mellow auditory experience that is quite enjoyable for many typists. This neutral sound signature makes them relatively unobtrusive while in use, ensuring that typing sounds do not become a distraction. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte switches also offer a balanced sound profile, described as neither quiet nor overly resonant, which reinforces their reputation for a pleasant auditory experience without overwhelming the user. While both switches favor a sound that is approachable, the Purple Star leans more towards a deeper tone, whereas Strawberry Lattes maintain a middle-ground balance.
Focusing on the feel of each switch, the Purple Star switches are noted for their mild characteristics and their easy-to-press nature. This means that typists can expect a gentle typing experience that minimizes resistance and makes for a comfortable, fatigue-free session. The light 45g actuation force of the Purple Star further enhances this effortless feel, making it accessible to light typists who prefer minimal effort during typing. There isn't specific information available about the feel of the Huano Strawberry Latte switches; thus, we cannot make a direct comparison in this area.
In summary, both the KTT Purple Star and Huano Strawberry Latte switches provide a satisfying typing experience but do so in slightly different ways. The Purple Star is characterized by its low-pitched sound and very light actuation, making it exceptionally user-friendly for those preferring a gentle touch. The Strawberry Latte, while offering a pleasant and balanced sound, lacks specific descriptors for its feel, leaving some attributes open to interpretation. If you’re looking for a smooth, satisfying typing experience, you can expect a level of comfort and auditory enjoyment from both switches, though the Purple Star provides distinct advantages in sound and actuation.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the KTT Purple Star and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switches, you'll want to consider your specific typing preferences and how they align with the unique characteristics of each switch. If you favor a smooth typing experience complemented by a low-pitched, mellow sound, the Purple Star may be the better option for you. Its light bottom-out force of 50 grams makes it particularly suitable for those who appreciate effortless key presses and enjoy typing for extended periods without experiencing finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you seek a slightly softer actuation with an even lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams, the Strawberry Latte could be more to your liking. This switch balances comfort and responsiveness, making it a great choice for typists who prioritize a smooth feel without being overly resonant. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prefer the smooth, buttery feel and low-pitched tone of the Purple Star or the very light touch and balanced profile of the Strawberry Latte. Both switches offer enjoyable typing experiences, but understanding these distinctions will help you better align your choice with your typing style.
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