TTC Gold Red vs. KTT Purple Click

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from. Two popular switches that offer distinct typing experiences are the TTC Gold Red and the KTT Purple Click. The Gold Red is known for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium level of resistance, providing a comfortable and effortless keystroke. On the other hand, the Purple Click is celebrated for its high-pitched, satisfying click and light keystrokes that offer a pronounced but not overwhelming tactility. While both switches have their own unique characteristics, such as the Gold Red's subtle and polished sound profile and the Purple Click's invigorating and resonant attributes, it is important to dive deeper to determine the best switch for your specific needs.

By the numbers

TTC Gold Red Linear

KTT Purple Click Clicky

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

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Housing materials

The TTC Gold Red and the KTT Purple Click both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful if RGB lighting is desired. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate top housings, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics.

In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Gold Red and the Purple Click utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic and absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the sound produced when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings tends to be duller and rounder. Users can expect a similar typing experience when using either the Gold Red or the Purple Click due to their shared nylon bottom housings.

While the top and bottom housings of the Gold Red and the Purple Click differ in material, each housing brings unique qualities to the switches. When pressing down on either switch, users will feel the impact of the bottom housing, which has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Both switches offer a balanced combination of housing materials to provide a satisfying typing and audio experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Gold Red switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, whereas the Purple Click requires a slightly lighter force of 40 grams to initiate a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Red switch requires 50 grams, while the Purple Click switch has a higher bottom out force of 55 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, both switches offer similar results as they have relatively low actuation forces. This is ideal for individuals who want a keyboard that allows for longer typing sessions without causing strain or fatigue. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Gold Red switch may be more suitable with its slightly higher bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Purple Click's 55 grams.

Considering weight is important, as some individuals may prefer a lighter switch for extended use at work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, others may find a heavier push more satisfying for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing sensation.

Travel distance

The travel distance of a switch is the amount it moves from the top to the bottom when pressed. In the case of the TTC Gold Red linear 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 equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the key move 4 mm downwards. Therefore, the travel distance of both switches is the same, resulting in similar tactile experiences for users.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is best described as having a thocky and low-pitched sound profile. When pressed, these switches produce a deep and satisfying sound, similar to a soft knock or thud. The sound is bass-heavy and mellow, creating a pleasant auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is known for its crunchy and resonant sound. Typing on these switches resembles stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves, creating a satisfying and immersive higher-pitched sound profile. Overall, both switches offer distinct sound qualities that can enhance the typing experience, with the Gold Red providing a more neutral and mellow sound while the Purple Click offers a more lively and crunchy sound.

In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is described as mild, silky, subtle, and polished. These switches offer a gentle typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. The typing feel is approachable to most users, as its qualities are in the safe middle-ground zone. The switches are exceptionally smooth and minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys, resulting in a silky and polished typing experience. They also offer a gentle yet noticeable tactile feedback that is suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is invigorating and stepped. These switches provide pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. They offer a mild tactile experience compared to hypertactile switches, where there is a noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. Overall, the Gold Red switches provide a smooth and gentle feel, while the Purple Click switches offer a more invigorating and responsive typing sensation.

In conclusion, the TTC Gold Red linear switches and the KTT Purple Click clicky switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Red switches provide a thocky and low-pitched sound, while the Purple Click switches offer a crunchy and resonant sound. In terms of feel, the Gold Red switches are mild, silky, subtle, and polished, providing a gentle and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Click switches are invigorating and stepped, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience based on personal preference. It's important to consider factors such as choice of keyboard and keycaps, as they can also influence the sound and feel of the switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is the way to go. These switches offer a satisfying sound profile that adds a touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. The Gold Red switch has a thocky and low-pitched sound, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you are using it at home or work. In terms of feel, the Gold Red switch provides a mild and silky typing experience, with a subtle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces. With its polished finish, you can expect reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, if you prefer a higher-pitched and satisfying click, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is the perfect choice. These switches offer light keystrokes with pronounced tactility, creating an invigorating and immersive typing sensation. The Purple Click switch has a crunchy and resonant sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. In terms of feel, the Purple Click switch provides a stepped tactile experience, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, giving it a mild and unique feel compared to hyper-tactile switches.

Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch depends on your personal preferences. If you value a smooth and refined typing experience with a light-medium resistance, the Gold Red switch is an excellent option. However, if you enjoy a higher-pitched click with pronounced tactile feedback, the Purple Click switch will satisfy your typing needs. Consider your desired sound, feel, and typing experience to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Gold Red Linear

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

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KTT Purple Click Clicky

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

Learn more