TTC Gold Brown vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch. The Gold Brown switches are known for their balanced feel, offering a slight but satisfying bump with a moderate weightiness. They produce a rounded, softer sound profile that is not completely silent. On the other hand, the Purple Star switches are praised for their buttery smooth typing experience due to their all-POM construction. With a very light 45g bottom-out, they are perfect for light typists looking for ease and comfort. While the Gold Brown switches are categorized as ['Neutral', 'Mild', 'Buttery', 'Accented', 'Polished'], the Purple Star switches fall into the categories of ['Mild', 'Low-pitched', 'Easy-to-press']. Each switch has its own unique strengths, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you make the best decision for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown and KTT Purple Star, one major difference lies in their top housing materials. The Gold Brown utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Purple Star opts for POM top housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound. While the Gold Brown's polycarbonate top housing emphasizes clarity and resonance, the Purple Star's POM top housing offers a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards a deeper tone. This variation in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing experience for users of these switches.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Gold Brown and Purple Star have different compositions. The Gold Brown features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer and sound-absorbing nature. Similarly, the Purple Star utilizes POM for its bottom housing, resulting in a sound profile that is also deep and relatively muted. Despite the difference in materials, both the nylon and POM bottom housings contribute to creating a rounded and dull sound, enhancing the overall typing experience for users. The choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the feel and sound of a switch when typing.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gold Brown and Purple Star may differ, they both ultimately aim to provide a unique and satisfying typing experience for users. The split of qualities between the top and bottom housings allows for a balance in sound profile and feel when typing on these switches. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Brown enhancing clarity or the softer nylon bottom housing contributing to a deeper sound profile, each housing material plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and tactile feedback of the switch. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Purple Star linear switch. The Gold Brown requires 55 grams of force to actuate and 63 grams of force to bottom out, making it a medium-weight option. In contrast, the Purple Star only needs 43 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming may opt for the Purple Star, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Gold Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In comparison, the Gold Brown has a slightly longer travel distance than the Purple Star. A 0.5 mm may not seem significant, but it can make a difference in how the switch feels when pressed. The Gold Brown may provide a bit more depth and tactile feedback compared to the Purple Star. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances and should offer a similar typing experience overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a slightly longer or shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 Gold Brown tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is generally softer than most switches, providing a well-balanced typing experience suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Purple Star linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Depending on personal preferences and the overall keyboard setup, users can enjoy a pleasant typing sound with either switch.
In terms of feel, both the Gold Brown tactile switch and the Purple Star linear switch are described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is comfortable for most users. The Gold Brown switch also boasts a buttery and accented feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a moderate amount of tactility. Similarly, the Purple Star switch is easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate, thereby reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Overall, users can expect a polished and approachable typing experience with both switches.
In conclusion, the Gold Brown tactile switch and the Purple Star linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, providing a balanced and comfortable typing experience for users. Whether you prefer a slightly tactile switch with a neutral sound profile like the Gold Brown or a smoother, low-pitched switch with easy-to-press keys like the Purple Star, both options deliver a satisfying typing experience depending on your preferences and needs. Ultimately, you can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel with either switch, making them both excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch or the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a medium bottom-out force that offers a balanced typing experience with a slight bump and moderate weightiness, then the Gold Brown may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom-out force that provides a buttery smooth typing experience and is ideal for light typists, then the Purple Star may be more suited to your preferences. Consider your typing needs, whether you prefer a neutral sound profile or a low-pitched tone, and whether you enjoy a mild, buttery feel or an easy-to-press sensation. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on what qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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