KTT Purple Star vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Star and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, we find two distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Purple Star is praised for its all-POM construction, providing a smooth typing experience with a light 45g bottom-out that is perfect for those who prefer a light touch. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro offers medium tactility and a light touch, making it a great choice for those looking for a balanced typing experience. Both switches have a neutral sound signature, but the Purple Star is categorized as 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', 'Easy-to-press', while the Violet Gold Pro is classified as 'Stepped' and 'Neutral'. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Purple Star and Dareu Violet Gold Pro both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Purple Star's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Violet Gold Pro's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. These differences in sound are due to the stiffness of polycarbonate compared to the POM material. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate material allows for RGB lighting to shine through, providing an aesthetic advantage over the POM housing.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Purple Star's POM bottom housing and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro's nylon bottom housing offer contrasting sound profiles as well. The POM material in the Purple Star creates a deep and pleasing sound, while the nylon material in the Violet Gold Pro elicits a fuller and rounder sound. Nylon's ability to absorb more sound due to its softer composition contributes to the duller and rounder sound profile compared to the POM material. This contrast in sound profiles showcases the impact that different housing materials can have on the overall typing experience.
Overall, the combination of the housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of the keystrokes. While the Purple Star and Violet Gold Pro have different top and bottom housing materials, each material brings its own unique qualities to the switch. The bottom housing has a direct impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Understanding the differences in housing materials can help users choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the Purple Star is the lighter option. The Purple Star has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a relatively light switch. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams, although its bottom out force is unknown. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter feel while typing, the KTT Purple Star would be the ideal choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Purple Star has a shorter travel distance compared to the Violet Gold Pro. The shorter travel distance of the Purple Star may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Violet Gold Pro may provide a more satisfying tactile feel for those who prefer a deeper keypress. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately depends on personal preference whether you prefer the shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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
In terms of sound, the Purple Star linear switch offers a low-pitched, bass-heavy and mellow tone, creating a soothing typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option suitable for various environments. Both switches aim to offer a satisfying sound experience, with the Purple Star leaning towards a deeper tone and the Violet Gold Pro maintaining a more balanced sound signature.
When it comes to feel, the Purple Star linear switch provides a mild and easy-to-press typing experience, making it ideal for users looking for a gentle typing sensation with minimal effort required. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offers a stepped tactile feel, providing a more nuanced typing experience with distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations. Both switches aim to offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Purple Star focusing on effortless typing and the Violet Gold Pro offering a more nuanced tactile feedback.
Overall, the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Purple Star excels in providing a low-pitched sound and easy-to-press feel, the Violet Gold Pro offers a neutral sound profile and a stepped tactile sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between the buttery smoothness of the Purple Star or the balanced tactility of the Violet Gold Pro to enhance their overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide quality options for newcomers seeking a satisfying mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a light typing experience with easy key presses and a low-pitched sound profile, the Purple Star may be the best choice for you. However, if you're looking for a balanced tactile feedback with a fairly light touch and a neutral sound signature, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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