TTC Gold Red Pro vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro and the KTT Purple Click stand out as two distinct options to explore. The Gold Red Pro, a linear switch, is revered for its versatility and ease of use, providing a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile that suits various environments. On the other hand, the Purple Click, a clicky switch, offers a high-pitched, satisfying click and light keystrokes with noticeable tactility. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and KTT Purple Click switches are similar in that they both feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, the Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Purple Click's nylon bottom housing, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite both switches having polycarbonate top housings, the different bottom housing materials make a noticeable difference in the sound and feel of typing on each switch. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing in the Gold Red Pro contribute to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. In contrast, the Purple Click's nylon bottom housing will also impact the typing experience, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile, but the overall sound may be different due to the various housing combinations.
In conclusion, while both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the choice of bottom housing material in the Gold Red Pro and Purple Click switches results in differences in sound profiles and typing experiences. The Gold Red Pro's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Purple Click's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in each switch plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel, making them unique in their own right.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the KTT Purple Click clicky switch's 40 grams. This means that the Gold Red Pro will require a bit more pressure to register a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Purple Click is heavier with 55 grams compared to the Gold Red Pro's unknown bottom out force. In terms of weight preference, those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Purple Click, while those who enjoy a heavier push for a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Gold Red Pro. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to the preferences of different users.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the KTT Purple Click clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Purple Click has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gold Red Pro. The Gold Red Pro's 3.8 mm travel distance falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a favorable choice for those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click's 4 mm travel distance offers a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 Red Pro linear switch is often described as having a neutral sound profile with a thocky, low-pitched tone, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is known for its crunchy, resonant sound that is satisfyingly high-pitched, providing an immersive auditory experience. Depending on personal preference and the surrounding environment, users may lean towards the more subdued sound of the Gold Red Pro or the distinctive click of the Purple Click.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch is often praised for its polished, silky, mild, and subtle typing experience, offering smooth key travel and reduced friction. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click switch is known for its invigorating feedback and stepped feel, providing a snappy and reactive typing sensation with a tactile bump. Depending on whether the user prefers a gentler, smoother typing experience or a more tactile and responsive feedback, they may find either the Gold Red Pro or the Purple Click more to their liking.
Overall, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. The Gold Red Pro excels in its versatility with a neutral sound profile and a smooth typing experience, while the Purple Click stands out with its high-pitched click and invigorating tactile feedback. Whether seeking a more subdued and polished typing feel or a more pronounced and crunchy sound, users can expect quality performance from both switches, albeit in different ways. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, you should consider your personal preferences and use case scenarios. If you value a smooth and versatile typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a satisfying clicky sound and a tactile typing feel that is invigorating and offers a unique experience, the Purple Click switch might be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your individual typing style and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard.
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