Gateron Glory Red vs. KTT Purple Click

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Gateron Glory Red and the KTT Purple Click offers vastly different typing experiences tailored to individual preferences. The Glory Red switch, classified as a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth keystroke and lighter actuation force, making it ideal for those who favor a quiet, uninterrupted typing experience. This switch is perfect for users who prioritize speed and efficiency, allowing for quick key presses without the tactile feedback found in other switch types. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click switch stands out as a clicky option, known for its high-pitched, satisfying click sound that adds an auditory satisfaction to each keystroke. While its light keystrokes provide a gentle touch, the pronounced tactility ensures a distinct feel that enhances typing accuracy. With its invigorating auditory and tactile feedback, the Purple Click is particularly appealing to those who enjoy the traditional typing experience reminiscent of older typewriters. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Glory Red Linear

KTT Purple Click Clicky

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Glory Red switches use a nylon top housing, while the KTT Purple Click switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, creating a notable contrast in their acoustic profiles. The nylon material of the Glory Red encompasses a comparatively softer composition that absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound when typing. This softer plastic allows for a duller and rounder auditory experience, making the switches ideal for users looking for a more muted sound profile. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Purple Click generates a higher-pitched, crisper sound due to its stiffer structure, which reflects sound waves more effectively. This difference in materials not only affects the acoustic quality but can also influence user preferences in terms of typing experience and preference for audible feedback.

On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, providing a consistent auditory experience from that aspect. The nylon bottom housing in both the Glory Red and Purple Click plays a significant role in creating a deeper and more rounded sound profile during key presses. As a result, users will find a level of similarity in the bottoming out sound and feel, making it easier for those who might be transitioning between these switches to acclimate. This shared bottom housing material helps unify their performance characteristics, despite the differences found in their top housings.

The combination of different top housing materials alongside the same bottom housing—nylon—illustrates how each component impacts the overall experience. With the Glory Red, users will enjoy a more dampened sound profile, highlighted by the nylon top housing's ability to absorb sound effectively. Conversely, the KTT Purple Click's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper, more resonant auditory experience. Nevertheless, the similar nylon bottom housing maintains some continuity across both switch types, allowing users to experience a pronounced bottom-out feel that carries a depth and fullness in sound. Therefore, even if the top portions of the switches yield different sound characteristics, the shared material in the bottom housing provides a cohesive underline to each switch's overall performance, ensuring that users can still engage with familiar auditory feedback during usage.

Weight

In comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, we find notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force. The Glory Red switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Purple Click's actuation force of 40 grams. This suggests that users may find the Purple Click easier to actuate, which could be more comfortable during extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Glory Red is unknown, while the Purple Click has a bottom out force of 55 grams, indicating that it provides a more substantial feedback when the key is fully pressed down. Consequently, those who prefer a lighter typing experience might gravitate towards the KTT Purple Click, while those seeking a stronger push feel may opt for the Gateron Glory Red. Overall, these differences highlight how each switch caters to different preferences in typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Glory Red features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Purple Click boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference suggests that the Glory Red offers a more responsive feel, which may be preferable for gamers seeking quicker actuation. Conversely, the longer 4 mm travel distance of the Purple Click can provide a more satisfying depth during key presses, catering to users who appreciate a more pronounced tactile experience. In summary, if you prefer snappier key presses, the Gateron Glory Red is the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, whereas those who enjoy a deeper keystroke may opt for the KTT Purple Click.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Glory Red switch is noted for its smooth, unobtrusive action, which typically results in a quieter typing experience. This makes it suitable for environments where minimal noise is preferred, as it lacks the pronounced auditory feedback associated with clicky switches. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch delivers a distinctly high-pitched, resonant sound that is satisfying and widely appreciated by enthusiasts who enjoy audible feedback while typing. The crunchy nature of its sound, reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves, adds to the overall experience, making it engaging for users who relish that auditory element during each keystroke.

When it comes to feel, the Glory Red switch is characterized by a smooth keystroke and a pleasing travel distance that creates a seamless typing sensation. This linear design means there is no tactile bump, allowing for fluid, uninterrupted strokes. Conversely, the KTT Purple Click switch offers a more invigorating experience, thanks to its tactile feedback and pronounced actuation points. The stepped feedback of the Purple Click provides a clear distinction between pre-travel and actuation, enhancing the overall engagement for typists who prefer a bit of resistance and pronounced feedback during use.

In summary, while both the Gateron Glory Red and KTT Purple Click switches serve different user preferences, they each have unique characteristics that cater to distinct types of typing experiences. The Glory Red is ideal for those seeking a quiet and smooth keystroke, making it suitable for work or study environments. In contrast, the Purple Click serves a niche for enthusiasts looking for an energizing, clicky feedback pattern that can make typing feel more lively and interactive. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, ensuring that any user can find a switch that suits their needs.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Glory Red is an excellent option. Its lighter actuation force can significantly enhance your typing speed and reduce fatigue during extended use, making it ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing tasks where responsiveness is key. However, if you are someone who enjoys auditory feedback and tactile sensations while you type, the Purple Click provides a satisfying click with each keystroke. Its medium-light bottom-out force delivers a balanced feel that offers both a pleasurable tactile feedback and a distinctive sound profile, making it great for typists who enjoy the clack of their keys and want to indulge in a more interactive typing experience. Ultimately, your preference for sound and feel will guide you: choose the Glory Red for a smooth and quiet environment, or opt for the Purple Click if you crave a more engaging and spirited typing interaction.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Glory Red Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

KTT Purple Click Clicky

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

Learn more