KTT Purple Star vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Star and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Purple Star, a linear switch, and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue, also a linear switch, the decision becomes a matter of personal preference. The Purple Star switches are beloved for their all-POM construction which offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a light 45g bottom-out, perfect for those who prefer a light touch while typing. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blues are renowned for their deep and thocky sound profile, thanks to a lengthened single-stage spring that provides a bouncy feel with each keystroke. With a balanced spring weight, they are accessible to a wide range of users. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a light and smooth typing experience (Purple Star) or a bouncy and satisfying typing experience with a deep sound profile (Tourmaline Blue). 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
59g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Purple Star and the Tourmaline Blue both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Purple Star utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Tourmaline Blue features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. While both materials offer their own advantages, the POM housing of the Purple Star may appeal to those seeking a quieter typing experience, while the polycarbonate housing of the Tourmaline Blue may be preferred by those looking for a more intense and clear sound.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of the Purple Star and Tourmaline Blue share some similarities in terms of their impact on sound. Both POM and polycarbonate are known for their unique sound profiles and ability to enhance the overall typing experience. The translucency of polycarbonate in particular allows for the integration of RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for users who enjoy customizable lighting effects. Whether it is the POM top housing of the Purple Star or the polycarbonate top housing of the Tourmaline Blue, both materials have been carefully chosen to optimize sound quality and aesthetics in mechanical switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Purple Star and the Tourmaline Blue will come down to personal preference and desired typing experience. While the POM housing of the Purple Star may offer a more subdued sound profile, the polycarbonate housing of the Tourmaline Blue provides a more vibrant and clear sound. Whether you prioritize a deeper, muted sound or a sharper, crisper sound, both switches offer distinct housing materials that contribute to their overall performance. By understanding the differences in housing materials, users can make an informed decision based on their preferred sound profile and typing style.
Weight
The KTT Purple Star linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. This makes the Purple Star ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Tourmaline Blue provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces. Both switches offer a different typing feel based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individual preferences. Overall, the Purple Star is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force, whereas the Tourmaline Blue is medium-heavy in comparison.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, we can see that the Purple Star has a travel distance of 3.5 mm while the Tourmaline Blue has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Purple Star has a shorter travel distance compared to the Tourmaline Blue. A shorter travel distance is often favored by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for some users. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Tourmaline Blue has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tourmaline Blue for $3.89.
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 is known for its low-pitched and mellow tone, providing a smooth and subtle typing experience that is not too intrusive. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is versatile and suitable for a wide range of users. The deep and thocky sound of the Tourmaline Blue adds a satisfying element to the typing experience, while the Purple Star's low-pitched sound signature creates a more relaxed atmosphere.
In terms of feel, both the Purple Star and Tourmaline Blue switches offer an easy-to-press and mild typing experience, making them comfortable and accessible choices for users. The Purple Star switch provides a gentle typing experience with minimal force required to activate, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Similarly, the Tourmaline Blue switch offers a buttery and smooth keystroke sensation, ensuring a seamless and effortless typing feel. Both switches strike a balance between comfort and responsiveness, making them enjoyable options for typing enthusiasts.
Overall, while the Purple Star and Tourmaline Blue linear switches offer slightly different sound profiles, they share similar qualities in terms of feel, providing a comfortable and responsive typing experience for users. Whether you prefer a low-pitched sound like the Purple Star or a neutral sound like the Tourmaline Blue, both switches offer easy-to-press and mild characteristics that enhance the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and slight differences in typing feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams and a low-pitched sound with an easy-to-press and mild typing experience, the Purple Star may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams, a thocky sound profile, and a buttery, easy-to-press, and mild typing experience, the Tourmaline Blue may be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what aspects of typing experience matter most to you.
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