KTT Purple Star vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Star and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Purple Star and the Gazzew U4Tx stand out as top contenders, each offering unique qualities to enhance your typing experience. The Purple Star features a linear switch design known for its all-POM construction, delivering a smooth typing sensation with a light 45g bottom-out ideal for light typists. In contrast, the U4Tx boasts a tactile switch design that combines the deep, resonant "thock" of the U4T with the quiet stealth of the U4, resulting in a satisfyingly sharp tactile bump with a refined sound profile. While the Purple Star is characterized as 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Easy-to-press', the U4Tx is labeled as 'Bassy', 'Muted', and 'Sharp'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, but diving deeper into each switch's nuances will help you make the best choice for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Purple Star and the Gazzew U4Tx, one can see that both switches utilize unique materials to create a deep and pleasing sound profile. The Purple Star features POM top and bottom housings, which are known for their deeper sound and muted quality. On the other hand, the U4Tx uses a proprietary Gazzew blend for both the top and bottom housings, delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While the materials differ, both switches aim to provide a similar auditory experience with their housing choices.
The difference in materials used for the top and bottom housings of the Purple Star and U4Tx switches brings about a split in the qualities each housing material contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing, whether POM or Gazzew blend, has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. Conversely, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when a key is released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings showcases how each material has a specific role in shaping the overall typing experience of the switch.
While the Purple Star and U4Tx switches may have different housing materials, their goal of creating an enjoyable typing experience remains the same. Both switches aim to provide users with a deep and pleasing sound profile, with the unique qualities of POM and Gazzew blend contributing to this outcome. Whether one prefers the deeper and more muted sound of the Purple Star's POM housings or the rich and soft sound of the U4Tx's Gazzew blend housings, both switches offer a unique typing experience that showcases the importance of housing materials in switch design.
Weight
The KTT Purple Star linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Purple Star has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams, while the U4Tx has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This means that the U4Tx provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Purple Star may be the better choice. On the other hand, for users who appreciate a stronger push feel, the U4Tx would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch have very similar travel distances, with the Purple Star coming in at 3.5 mm and the U4Tx at 3.6 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. The difference in travel distance between the two switches is very minimal, so in practice, you would likely get similar results in terms of key feel and response. Overall, if you prefer a slightly longer travel distance, the Gazzew U4Tx would be the better option, while the KTT Purple Star would be ideal for those looking for a slightly shorter travel distance.
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 U4Tx 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Purple Star linear switch offers a low-pitched, mellow tone that is pleasant and unobtrusive. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch provides a bassy, rich sound profile with a muted quality that minimizes overall noise. The U4Tx switch offers a deeper and more resonant "thock" when bottoming out, combined with a subtle and stealthy sound when topping out, creating a unique and satisfying auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Purple Star switch provides a mild and easy-to-press typing experience, making it suitable for light typists looking for a comfortable and effortless typing feel. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx switch offers a sharp and intense tactile bump with each keypress, providing a highly responsive and distinct typing experience. The strong and crisp tactile feedback of the U4Tx switch is designed to enhance the tactile typing experience for users who prefer a more pronounced tactile response.
Overall, both the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offer unique and desirable qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Purple Star switch provides a smooth and light typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the U4Tx switch offers a refined and tactile typing experience with a bassy and muted sound signature. Depending on personal preference regarding sound and feel, users can expect a satisfying and luxurious typing experience with either switch option. Ultimately, both switches offer quality construction and performance that will result in a positive typing experience for users.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is important to consider your preferences for typing experience. If you are a light typist who values a smooth and comfortable typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Purple Star may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more refined sound profile and enjoy a sharp tactile bump with each keypress, the U4Tx may be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a light and easy-to-press feel or a sharp tactile feedback accompanied by a deeper, richer sound profile. Consider your typing preferences carefully to choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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