Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the KTT Strawberry offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch, known for its satisfying tactile feedback and audible click sound. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry is a linear switch, prized for its smooth actuation and quiet operation. While the Dustproof Purple may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience, the Strawberry might be preferred by users seeking a smoother and quieter feel. 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
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the KTT Strawberry switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing experience. Despite both switches sharing this housing material, the overall sound and feel of each switch may still differ based on other components.
In contrast, the Dustproof Purple utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate material used in the Strawberry's bottom housing. This leads to a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Dustproof Purple switch. The differences in bottom housing materials between the two switches can significantly impact the overall typing experience, as the bottom-out sound and feel are influenced by the properties of the bottom housing.
While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the split between different housing materials for their bottom housings affects how the sound and feel of each switch is perceived. The qualities of the bottom housing material are felt when pressing down on a key, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing material primarily impacts the sound when releasing a key, providing a more comprehensive understanding of how each switch performs during typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the KTT Strawberry switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and typing experiences.
Weight
Comparing the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force differ between the two. The Dustproof Purple has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry switch has a lower actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, offering a lighter and smoother typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the KTT Strawberry switch, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Outemu Dustproof Purple switch. Both switches offer distinct tactile feedback due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that the typing experience will be consistent across both switches in terms of the distance traveled by the key.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof Purple comes in at $3.10, whereas the KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91.
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 Dustproof Purple switch offers a unique auditory experience that is not well-documented, making it difficult to compare directly to the KTT Strawberry switch. However, the KTT Strawberry switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, which typically provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is subjective and can be influenced by various factors, such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Dustproof Purple switch lacks specific information about its tactile qualities, making direct comparisons challenging. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as providing a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. These qualities suggest that the Strawberry switch offers a smooth and effortless keystroke with minimal resistance, resulting in a comfortable and satisfying typing feel.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Dustproof Purple and KTT Strawberry switches have distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel, the lack of detailed information about the Dustproof Purple switch makes it challenging to provide a comprehensive comparison. If one is seeking a tactile and audible typing experience with low-pitched sound characteristics, the KTT Strawberry switch may be a more suitable option. However, both switches can offer a pleasant typing experience, and individual preferences will play a significant role in determining which switch is the best fit for each user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, consider the factors that are most important to you. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clicky sound without any specific standout features, the Dustproof Purple may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, a smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance with a low-pitched sound and a variety of feel descriptors such as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished, then the KTT Strawberry switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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