KTT Purple Star vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Star and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the KTT Purple Star and the KTT Wine Red can offer a unique typing experience tailored to individual preferences. The Purple Star linear switch is celebrated for its all-POM construction, providing a smooth typing sensation and a neutral sound signature. With a light 45g bottom-out force, this switch is ideal for those who prefer a light touch while typing. In contrast, the Wine Red linear switch offers a pillowy light typing feel and a deep, rich sound profile, making it a satisfying choice for those who appreciate a bassy sound. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal typing style and sound preferences; 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
44g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The key difference between the housing materials of the KTT Purple Star and the KTT Wine Red lies in the material used for the top and bottom housings. While the Purple Star features POM material for both the top and bottom housings, creating a deeper and more muted sound profile, the Wine Red utilizes polycarbonate for both housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This means that the overall sound and feel of the switches will be distinct, with the Purple Star offering a more subdued typing experience compared to the Wine Red's more vivid and lively sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Wine Red allows for a clearer and more resonant sound profile, making it ideal for users who prioritize RGB lighting in their setup. In contrast, the POM material used in the Purple Star's top housing may not offer the same level of translucency and light diffusion, potentially limiting the visual impact of RGB lighting. However, both switches are likely to provide a unique and pleasing sound experience, albeit with different characteristics based on their housing materials.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Purple Star and the KTT Wine Red will come down to personal preference for sound profile and aesthetic priorities. While both switches offer a distinct typing experience based on their housing materials, users can expect similar results in terms of overall quality and performance. Whether you prefer the deeper and more muted sound of the Purple Star's POM housing or the sharper and crisper sound of the Wine Red's polycarbonate housing, both switches are designed to enhance your typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it is evident that the Purple Star is lighter in both aspects. The Purple Star has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Wine Red has an actuation force of 44 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the Purple Star requires slightly less force for both actuation and bottoming out compared to the Wine Red. This means that users of the Purple Star may find it easier to type for extended periods without experiencing fatigue, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Wine Red offers a slightly heavier typing feel, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter compared to the KTT Wine Red linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Purple Star offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a favorable choice for gamers seeking fast keystroke capabilities. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch provides a more satisfying depth with its longer travel distance, catering to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, your preference between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more tactile 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 KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71.
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 tone that provides a mellow and bass-heavy sound signature, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch produces a rich and deep sound profile with a bassy undertone, giving a more satisfyingly audible typing experience. Both switches offer a pleasant sound, but the Purple Star leans towards a lower pitch while the Wine Red provides a bit more depth in its sound.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Purple Star linear switch is known for its mild and easy-to-press qualities, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal resistance. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing fatigue during extended use. Unfortunately, information on the specific feel of the KTT Wine Red linear switch is not available at this time. However, based on the similarities in weight and design between the two switches, it is safe to assume that the Wine Red may provide a similar mild and easy-to-press feel like the Purple Star.
In conclusion, both the KTT Purple Star and Wine Red linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Purple Star provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature, while the Wine Red offers a pillowy light type feel paired with a deep and rich sound profile. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, either switch could be a great choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it really comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a light typing experience with a buttery smooth feel and neutral sound, the Purple Star with its 50g bottom-out force is the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly firmer typing experience with a deep and rich sound profile, the Wine Red with its 55g bottom-out force might be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, so you can't go wrong with either choice. Just consider your preferences and needs to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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