KTT Purple Star vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Star and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Purple Star and the Gazzew U4T offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Purple Star is a linear switch known for its all-POM construction, providing a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature. With a light 45g bottom-out force, it is ideal for light typists seeking ease and comfort. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T is a tactile switch that combines thockiness and sharp tactility, resulting in a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback. While the Purple Star is categorized as 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Easy-to-press', the U4T is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Thocky', and 'Sharp'. Each switch offers its own benefits and characteristics that may appeal to different 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The KTT Purple Star and Gazzew U4T both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Purple Star utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, creating a deep and relatively muted sound. On the other hand, the U4T features a proprietary Gazzew plastic blend, known as "boba plastic," for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Despite using different materials, both switches offer a similar deep sound profile that is pleasing to the ear.
However, when comparing the top and bottom housings of the Purple Star and U4T individually, differences start to emerge. The POM bottom housing of the Purple Star contributes more to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Conversely, the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4T, known for its softness, provides a rich and deep sound profile. This means that the bottom housing of the U4T may have a softer bottom-out feel compared to the Purple Star, while still delivering a pleasing sound upon release.
In conclusion, while both the KTT Purple Star and Gazzew U4T offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials, the specific qualities each material brings to the switch are divided between the top and bottom housing. The POM housing of the Purple Star creates a deep and muted sound, with the top housing impacting key release sound, while the Gazzew blend of the U4T delivers a rich and deep sound profile with a potentially softer bottom-out feel. Overall, both switches provide a satisfying auditory experience, with slight differences in sound and feel depending on the specific housing material used.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is evident that the Purple Star requires a lighter touch overall. The Purple Star has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the U4T has a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium to heavy feel when typing. The actuation force of the U4T is unknown, but it is safe to assume that it is heavier than the Purple Star due to the higher bottom out force. Depending on personal preference, individuals may lean towards the Purple Star for longer typing sessions or the U4T for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to whether one prefers a lighter or heavier touch when typing.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Purple Star linear switch is 3.5mm, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm. The Purple Star has a shorter travel distance compared to the U4T. A 3.5mm travel distance can provide quicker response times, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking faster reactions. On the other hand, the U4T with a 4mm travel distance offers a bit more depth and may feel more satisfying for those who prefer a longer keypress. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances and can provide a good typing experience based on individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88, whereas the Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50.
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 and neutral sound signature, providing a mellow and bass-heavy tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch produces a bassy and thocky sound profile, delivering a deeper and richer sound with a pronounced tactile feedback that adds to the auditory satisfaction of typing. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Purple Star catering to those who prefer a smoother and more neutral sound, while the U4T appeals to individuals seeking a more robust and tactile auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Purple Star switch offers a mild and easy-to-press typing experience, with a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable. The U4T tactile switch, in contrast, provides a sharp tactile feedback with a strong and crisp bump that can be distinctly felt with each keystroke. The Purple Star switch aims to provide a gentle and approachable typing experience, while the U4T switch offers a more intense tactile sensation for those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback with each key press.
Overall, the KTT Purple Star linear switch excels in delivering a smooth and light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, ideal for light typists looking for comfort and ease during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch stands out for its thocky and bassy sound profile, paired with a sharp tactile feedback that enhances the tactile satisfaction of typing. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can cater to a variety of typing preferences, providing a customized typing experience for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, you should consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a buttery smooth typing experience with a light bottom-out force and a neutral sound signature, the Purple Star may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp tactile feedback and a bassy 'thock' sound profile with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the U4T could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the feel and sound profile that best align with your typing preferences and comfort.
Mentioned in this article
