KTT Purple Star vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Star and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Purple Star and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that they each offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Purple Star is favored for its buttery smooth typing experience and light 45g bottom-out, making it an excellent choice for light typists who value ease and comfort. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches stand out for their innovation and visual aesthetics, with a light column that enhances RGB visuals and a unique dry, airy smoothness provided by the UPE stem. While the Purple Star is described as 'Mild' and 'Easy-to-press', the WS Morandi is characterized as 'Buttery', 'Creamy', and 'Silky'. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Purple Star and Wuque Studio WS Morandi both utilize POM housing material for their top and bottom housings, creating a unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted compared to other materials. This similarity means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. However, differences may arise depending on how each manufacturer utilizes the POM material in their housing design.
One key difference between the two switches lies in how the qualities of the POM housing material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The qualities of the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on the KTT Purple Star, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi may have a different distribution of these qualities, resulting in a slightly different typing experience for users.
Overall, both the KTT Purple Star and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi offer a typing experience that is characterized by the unique sound profile created by POM housing material. While the specifics of how this material is utilized in each switch may differ slightly, users can expect a deeper and more muted sound when typing on either switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of design or any subtle differences in the typing experience that arise from the distribution of the POM housing qualities.
Weight
The KTT Purple Star linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. However, the Purple Star has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams while the WS Morandi has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that while the Purple Star may feel lighter to type on initially, the WS Morandi will provide a more substantial typing experience due to the heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the actuation and bottom out forces, catering to those who prefer a lighter or heavier feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of travel distance. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel. Therefore, whether you opt for the KTT Purple Star or the WS Morandi switch, you can expect to receive similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Wuque Studio WS Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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 Purple Star linear switch is best described as having a low-pitched tone, providing a bass-heavy and mellow sound profile during typing. On the other hand, the WS Morandi linear switch offers a slightly more muted sound profile with a low-pitched, subdued, and thocky sound. The WS Morandi switch creates a dampened sound that is not completely silent but offers a more subtle and satisfying typing experience compared to the Purple Star switch. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by external factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Purple Star linear switch offers a mild and easy-to-press typing experience, providing gentle resistance during key presses and minimizing finger fatigue with its light actuation force. The WS Morandi linear switch, on the other hand, offers a buttery, creamy, and silky smooth typing experience. These switches deliver a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys with minimal resistance. The UPE stem in the WS Morandi switch contributes to its unique dry, airy, and wispy feel, distinct from the creamy smoothness of factory-lubed switches.
Overall, when comparing the Purple Star and WS Morandi linear switches, it's evident that they offer distinct typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Purple Star switch excels in providing a light and comfortable typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, ideal for light typists. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switch strikes a balance between visual aesthetics and performance, offering a slightly more muted sound and a buttery smooth feel that enhances the overall typing sensation. Depending on the preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you value a lighter typing experience with a softer touch, opt for the Purple Star with its 50g bottom-out force, mild feel, and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier keystroke that balances innovation with visual aesthetics, go for the WS Morandi with its 60g bottom-out force, buttery feel, and unique sound characteristics including a thocky and subdued sound profile. Ultimately, your choice should depend on whether you prioritize ease and comfort in typing (Purple Star) or a more visually captivating and balanced typing experience (WS Morandi).