TTC Gold Brown vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the TTC Gold Brown and the KTT Purple Click. Both switches have their unique qualities that offer a distinct typing experience. The Gold Brown switch is best known for its balanced nature, with a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. It also produces a softer sound profile compared to most switches, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch stands out with its high-pitched, satisfying click. It offers light keystrokes with pronounced tactility, striking a perfect equilibrium between responsiveness and comfort. Both switches have their advantages, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and KTT Purple Click switches are quite similar. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, allowing for a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound, users can expect similar results from both switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the two switches differ slightly. The Gold Brown switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Purple Click switch also features a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a slightly different typing experience between the Gold Brown and Purple Click switches, with the Gold Brown potentially offering a slightly deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the bottom and top of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This is an important consideration for users who prioritize sound profiles in their typing experience. Overall, while the housing materials of the Gold Brown and Purple Click switches offer slight variations in sound, users can expect similar results in terms of sharpness and clarity.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Brown requires a higher actuation force of 55 grams, while the Purple Click has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. This means that the Gold Brown will feel slightly heavier when triggering a keystroke compared to the Purple Click.
In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Brown again requires a higher force of 63 grams, whereas the Purple Click has a lower bottom out force of 55 grams. This indicates that the Gold Brown will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience when pressing down fully on the keys compared to the Purple Click.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Purple Click with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces. This lighter switch allows for longer periods of typing without causing fatigue, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. Conversely, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Gold Brown with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. This will provide them with a satisfying tactile response and a feeling of solidity while typing.
In conclusion, while the Gold Brown and Purple Click switches both fall under the medium category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, they have distinct differences. The Gold Brown is heavier in both forces, offering a sturdier typing experience, whereas the Purple Click is lighter and more suitable for extended typing sessions.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch both 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 distance. Both switches provide a tactile feedback, which means they have a noticeable bump when pressed. However, it is worth noting that the exact feel of the tactile feedback may differ between these two switches. While both switches offer the same travel distance, the overall typing experience might vary due to factors such as actuation force and sound level. Therefore, even though the travel distance is the same, users may have different preferences based on these additional factors.
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 Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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 TTC Gold Brown switch provides a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes. It is not too loud or too quiet and offers a rounded sound that is softer than most switches without being completely silent. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch delivers a crunchy and resonant sound. It produces a satisfying high-pitched click that resembles stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. The sound profile is clean and sharp, providing an immersive auditory experience. However, it is important to note that the actual sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Brown switch offers a mild and buttery typing experience. It provides a gentle typing sensation that is approachable to most users. The keystrokes feel smooth and fluid, resulting in effortless and uniform typing. The switch is described as accented, meaning that it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. It falls in the middle-ground, offering a satisfying bump without being too tactile. Additionally, the Gold Brown switch is polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that contributes to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In contrast, the KTT Purple Click switch delivers an invigorating and stepped typing experience. It offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. The switch feels more mild compared to hypersensitive switches, providing some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This creates a unique typing sensation that is immersive and satisfying.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown switch and the KTT Purple Click switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Gold Brown switch provides a balanced and moderate typing experience with a slight, satisfying bump. It has a neutral sound profile and offers a mild and buttery feel with a prominent but not overwhelming tactility. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch delivers a high-pitched, satisfying click and an invigorating and stepped feel. It offers a crunchy and resonant sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style. If someone enjoys a softer and more balanced typing experience, they may prefer the Gold Brown switch. If someone prefers a clicky and invigorating typing experience, they may opt for the Purple Click switch.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch, you would want to choose it if you prefer a balanced typing experience. These switches offer a slight, satisfying bump with a moderate weightiness. They have a rounded sound profile that is generally softer than most switches, providing a pleasant typing sound. The Gold Brown switch is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use it at home or work.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a high-pitched, satisfying click, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch would be the better choice. These switches have a light keystroke with pronounced tactility, striking the perfect equilibrium. Typing on Purple Click switches offers an invigorating and responsive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation.
In terms of sound, the Gold Brown switch has a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner, advanced user, or intend to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch is described as crunchy and resonant, offering a higher-pitched sound profile and an immersive auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Brown switch provides a mild, buttery, accented, and polished typing experience. These switches offer a gentle and approachable typing sensation with a smooth and refined finish. The Purple Click switch, on the other hand, offers an invigorating feel with moderate to firm actuation force and a snappy and reactive typing sensation. Some users may appreciate the stepped feel of the Purple Click switches, which have two stages of tactility compared to the more pronounced bump of hypertactile switches.
Ultimately, your choice between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch will depend on your personal preferences. Whether you prioritize a balanced typing experience with a moderate sound profile or an invigorating clicky feel with a higher-pitched sound, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
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