KTT Purple Star vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Star and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, both switches offer a smooth typing experience with a light actuation force. The Purple Star stands out with its all-POM construction, providing a buttery smooth feel and a low-pitched sound profile, making it an excellent choice for light typists seeking comfort and ease. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is favored by gamers and typists looking for speediness and responsiveness, with its light actuation force and neutral sound profile. While both switches offer similar characteristics in terms of smoothness and lightness, the Purple Star caters more towards light typists seeking a comfortable typing experience, whereas the Yellow Silver is ideal for those prioritizing speed and responsiveness. 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
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Purple Star and the Outemu Yellow Silver, it is clear that they offer distinct sound profiles due to their different materials. The POM housing of the Purple Star provides a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate housing of the Yellow Silver creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the typing experience for users, as some may prefer the softer and more subdued sound of POM, while others may enjoy the crispness and clarity of polycarbonate.
Additionally, the differences in housing materials extend to their physical properties as well. The POM bottom housing of the Purple Star offers a deep and unique sound profile, similar to its top housing, while the nylon bottom housing of the Yellow Silver provides a fuller and rounder sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller sound compared to the POM material. This variation in sound profiles can cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts, with some gravitating towards the deep and full sound of nylon, while others may prefer the unique sound of POM.
Despite their differences, both the KTT Purple Star and the Outemu Yellow Silver offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The materials used in the top and bottom housings of these switches play a significant role in shaping the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches. Whether one prefers the deeper and more muted sound of POM or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both switches provide a distinct typing experience that is sure to satisfy keyboard enthusiasts looking for quality housing materials in their mechanical switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver 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 Yellow Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Purple Star is suitable for those who prefer a lighter key press, allowing for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver offers a slightly heavier typing experience, providing a more substantial push feel for users who enjoy a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Both switches provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring that users can find the right balance of weight that suits their typing preferences.
Travel distance
The KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Purple Star has a shorter travel distance compared to the Yellow Silver switch. The difference may seem small, but it can affect the overall feel and response of the switch when typing or gaming. Those who prefer a quicker, more responsive key press may lean towards the Purple Star, while those who enjoy a bit more depth and cushioning may prefer the Yellow Silver. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for key feel and performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88, whereas the Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40.
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 sound profile, which is characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This can provide a soothing typing experience for users who prefer a quieter switch option. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a neutral sound profile, meaning it has a moderate sound level that can cater to a wide range of users. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Purple Star leaning towards a lower tone and the Yellow Silver maintaining a balanced sound suitable for various environments.
Moving on to the feel, the KTT Purple Star linear switch is described as providing a mild and easy-to-press typing experience. This gentle resistance and light actuation force of 45g make typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. The switch's approachable qualities make it suitable for users looking for a smooth typing feel without too much resistance. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available for the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch regarding its feel characteristics. However, given its light actuation force and intended usage for gamers and typists who prefer speediness and responsiveness, it can be inferred that the switch may offer a similar easy-to-press feel akin to the Purple Star.
In conclusion, the KTT Purple Star linear switch stands out for its low-pitched sound profile and mild, easy-to-press typing feel, making it an excellent choice for light typists seeking a smooth and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch offers a neutral sound profile and is designed with a light actuation force favored by gamers and typists looking for speed and responsiveness. While there are differences in sound and feel between the two switches, users can expect a level of comfort and ease with either option depending on their preferences and typing style. Ultimately, both switches provide quality performance and can meet the needs of various users in different ways.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you are a light typist looking for a buttery smooth and easy-to-press switch with a low-pitched sound profile, the Purple Star would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize speediness and responsiveness in your typing or gaming sessions, the Yellow Silver with its light actuation force and neutral sound profile might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider your own typing style and needs before making a decision.
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