KTT Purple Star vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Star and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Purple Star and the Bsun Tomcat both offer distinct advantages tailored for different typing preferences. The Purple Star, renowned for its all-POM construction, provides a buttery smooth typing experience, characterized by a mild and low-pitched sound signature. With a very light 45g bottom-out force, it's an excellent option for light typists seeking comfort and ease in every keystroke. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat features Ly stems, which contribute to a hyper-smooth typing sensation enhanced by a resonant sound profile that appeals to those who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback with every press. Both switches cater to linear switch aficionados, yet they stand out in their unique characteristics and user experiences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 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
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
The KTT Purple Star and the Bsun Tomcat utilize fundamentally different materials for their top housings, which significantly influences their acoustic character. The Purple Star is crafted with a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, known for producing a deeper and relatively muted sound profile. This unique sound signature is attributed to POM's specific properties, which provide warmth but a lower overall pitch in auditory feedback. In stark contrast, the Tomcat's use of polycarbonate for its top housing yields a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile that is more resonant. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to this clarity, making it an ideal choice for enhanced sound generation, especially in setups boasting RGB lighting, where its translucent quality can amplify visual effects.
Examining the bottom housing of these switches reveals a similar divergence in materials that complements their top counterparts. The Purple Star employs a POM bottom housing, which aligns with the acoustic characteristics of its top housing to create an overall consistent sound profile characterized by its deeper tones. On the other hand, the Tomcat features a nylon bottom housing, a classic material that tends to absorb sound due to its softer composition. This arrangement leads to a fuller sound, with a more rounded and muted bottom-out feel when typing. While both switches aim for auditory satisfaction, their differing material properties in the bottom housing contribute to distinctly different experiences when bottoming out.
Given the separate material compositions of the KTT Purple Star and Bsun Tomcat, the resulting sound profiles reflect the nuances each housing brings to the table. The Purple Star attains a cohesive, deeper, and slightly muted typing experience, while the Tomcat offers a brighter, crisper auditory feedback combined with a fuller sound at the bottom. If a user desires a blend of both worlds—deeper soundbite feedback when pressing down and clearer, resonant sounds upon release—they could achieve similar results by carefully selecting switches that balance both properties. These contrasting designs highlight how individual components of a keyboard switch can dramatically alter the overall typing experience, catering to varied preferences within the keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Purple Star features an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option, ideal for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience during extended periods of use. In contrast, the Tomcat has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This difference in weight may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing, providing a firmer push that some users find satisfying. While both switches offer a linear action, the Purple Star is the lighter choice, which could enhance comfort for long work or gaming sessions, while the Tomcat offers a bit more resistance for those who prefer a stronger tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, the KTT Purple Star measures 3.5 mm, while the Bsun Tomcat has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Purple Star the shorter option and the Tomcat the longer one, albeit by just 0.1 mm. For gamers seeking quicker response times, the Purple Star's shorter distance may be more appealing, providing a more immediate feedback with each keystroke. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial feel with a bit more depth might gravitate towards the Tomcat switch, as its longer travel distance could offer a more satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88, whereas the Bsun Tomcat comes in at $2.99.
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 considering the sound profile of the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it presents a low-pitched tone that tends to be mellow and bass-heavy, making it pleasant and unobtrusive while typing. This neutral sound signature is a key feature that contributes to the overall comfort of the typing experience. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is noted for its resonant sound profile; however, the specific characteristics of this sound are not detailed. Therefore, if you prefer a more muted acoustic environment, the Purple Star may suit you better, but the Tomcat's resonance could present an intriguing auditory experience depending on your personal preferences and choice of board and keycaps.
Regarding feel, the KTT Purple Star switches are characterized by their mild resistance and very light 45g actuation force. This makes them extremely approachable for most typists, offering an easy-to-press experience that minimizes finger fatigue, especially during extended use. Their gentle typing feel strikes a nice balance, making them a great option for users who appreciate a smooth ride without the hassle of strenuous key presses. Unfortunately, specific information about the feel of the Tomcat switch is missing, making it harder to directly compare. However, the mention of the Ly stems suggests that they may also offer a smooth typing experience, potentially aligning with the Purple Star's emphasis on user comfort.
In summary, both the KTT Purple Star and the Bsun Tomcat linear switches seem to prioritize a smooth typing experience, but they diverge in their sound profiles and specific tactile feedback. The Purple Star, with its low-pitched sound and easy-to-press feel, caters to those who seek a gentle typing experience. The Tomcat offers a different auditory experience with its resonant quality, but without an in-depth description of its feel, one should approach it with curiosity. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound quality, tactile feedback, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between KTT Purple Star and Bsun Tomcat linear switches largely depends on your personal typing style and preferences. If you tend to be a lighter typist or frequently engage in long typing sessions, the KTT Purple Star switches would be a fantastic option due to their lower actuation force of 45 grams and buttery smooth feel. The mild characteristics and easy-to-press nature of the Purple Star will provide you with comfort and reduce finger fatigue, making it ideal for both casual and extended use. Conversely, if you prefer a slightly firmer feel with a touch more feedback, the Bsun Tomcat linear switches, with their medium-light bottom-out force of 54 grams, could suit you better. The Ly stems in these switches deliver a super smooth typing experience, enriched by a resonant sound profile that adds a bit of character without being overly intrusive. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing habits—go with the Purple Star for a feather-light touch and comfort, or choose the Tomcat for a balanced typing experience with a bit more resistance.
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