Huano Grape Orange vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Huano Grape Orange and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard, the type of switch can significantly impact your typing experience, and two popular options are the Huano Grape Orange and the KTT Purple Click. The Grape Orange switch is renowned for its ultra-light 40g actuation force, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience that makes it an ideal choice for users who spend long hours typing. Its linear design means that there is no tactile bump or click, providing a seamless keystroke that can enhance productivity and reduce fatigue during extended use. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click switch, also known as Purple Sauce, delivers an invigorating and satisfying auditory experience with its high-pitched click sound. While maintaining a light keystroke, the Purple Click strikes a balance between a pronounced tactile response and an engaging auditory feedback, appealing to those who enjoy a more interactive typing experience. Each switch has its advantages: the Grape Orange for comfort and speed, and the Purple Click for tactile and acoustic enjoyment. 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
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Huano Grape Orange and KTT Purple Click switches share a striking similarity in their top housing material: both utilize polycarbonate. This choice of material contributes to a crisper and sharper sound profile, as polycarbonate's stiffness enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for effective diffusion of RGB lighting, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate visual aesthetics in their keyboard setup. Hence, users can expect a similar auditory experience and vibrant visual performance from both switches due to this shared design element.
In contrast, both the Grape Orange and Purple Click switches incorporate nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is recognized for its ability to absorb sound, which results in a deeper and rounder sound profile compared to harder plastics. This inherent softness allows the bottom housing to create a more muted sound when the keys bottom out, enhancing the overall typing experience. As both switches utilize the same material for their bottom housing, users can anticipate a consistent, fuller sound when typing, thus emphasizing the more tactile and subdued feel that nylon imparts.
The differing contributions of the top and bottom housings in both the Grape Orange and Purple Click switches shape the overall sound and feel during usage. While the polycarbonate top housing predominantly influences the sound when releasing the keys, the nylon bottom housing plays a critical role in the sound and sensation of the key's bottoming out. Because both switches share the same material compositions, users can expect a coherent synergy in performance, marrying the crisp high tones from polycarbonate with the rich depth provided by nylon, resulting in a distinctive and satisfying typing experience across both models.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch with the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, both switches share the same actuation force of 40 grams, making them equally light in that regard. However, the bottom out forces differ, with the Grape Orange at 50 grams and the KTT Purple Click at 55 grams. This indicates that while both switches require the same force to trigger a keystroke, the Purple Click switches feel heavier when pressed all the way down, requiring an extra 5 grams of force compared to the Grape Orange. For users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Grape Orange is the preferable choice, whereas those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a firmer bottoming out feel might lean towards the heavier KTT Purple Click.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, a notable difference emerges. The Grape Orange has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Purple Click features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Grape Orange offers a slightly shorter distance, making it potentially more responsive for users who favor quicker keystrokes, such as gamers. In contrast, the Purple Click, with its longer travel distance, may feel more substantial and provide a deeper typing experience, which some users prefer for a more tactile feedback. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Grape Orange would be the better choice, whereas those who enjoy a hearty depth in their typing may lean towards the Purple Click.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.
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
When it comes to sound, the Huano Grape Orange linear switch is characterized by a nearly silent operation, which allows for a distraction-free typing experience. This is ideal for users who prefer to work or game in quieter environments without disturbing others. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click switch presents a resonant, higher-pitched sound that adds an engaging auditory layer to typing. The clean and sharp sound profile appeals to those who enjoy the clicky feedback associated with typing, creating a delightful sensory experience that can enhance overall satisfaction with each keystroke.
In terms of feel, the Grape Orange offers an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience with an actuation force of only 40g, making it ideal for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. This linear switch provides a smooth and uninterrupted keypress, catering to users who prefer a fluid motion. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch delivers pronounced tactile feedback, combining an invigorating and snappy feel with a moderate to firm actuation force. The stepped nature of this clicky switch provides a unique experience, offering stages of tactile response that can heighten the engagement during typing, appealing particularly to those who thrive on sensory richness in their interactions.
In summary, the Huano Grape Orange and the KTT Purple Click switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Grape Orange excels in providing a discreet, smooth typing experience, while the Purple Click offers an auditory and tactile richness that many users find satisfying. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feedback, one might choose the Grape Orange for stealthy, prolonged use or the Purple Click for a more interactive typing experience. Both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing enjoyment, making them appealing options for different typing styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you find yourself engaging in long typing sessions, the Grape Orange switch, with its ultra-low actuation force of just 40 grams and light bottom-out force of 50 grams, will provide a smooth, effortless experience that minimizes finger fatigue. This makes it an excellent option for those who prioritize a quick and comfortable typing experience over tactile or auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more interactive and stimulating typing experience, the KTT Purple Click switch may be your go-to. With its satisfying click sound and invigorating tactile feedback, this switch strikes a balance with a bottom-out force of 55 grams that supports a pronounced sensation with each keystroke. The distinct auditory feedback can enhance your overall typing experience, making it enjoyable for both casual use and gaming. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you seek a seamless, soft typing feel with the Grape Orange, or an engaging clicky experience that offers both sound and tactile feedback with the KTT Purple Click.