HMX Gravel vs. KTT Purple Click

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preferences and typing styles. On one hand, the HMX Gravel switch is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing experience. With a medium-light actuation force that offers a responsive yet effortless feel, the Gravel caters to those who prioritize fluidity and speed in their keystrokes, making it an ideal choice for gamers and fast typists alike. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click, also known as Purple Sauce, stands out with its distinctive high-pitched click, providing an invigorating tactile feedback that many typists find satisfying. This switch combines light keystrokes with pronounced tactility, appealing to users who enjoy a more audible and engaging typing experience. While both switches have their unique advantages—smoothness in the Gravel versus the crunchy and resonant nature of the Purple Click—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

HMX Gravel Linear

KTT Purple Click Clicky

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the HMX Gravel and the KTT Purple Click switches share notable similarities, particularly in their top housing composition. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which contributes to a distinctive sound profile characterized by sharpness and clarity. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate allows for a more resonant sound, effectively enhancing the auditory experience when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate provides a visually appealing aesthetic, especially when paired with RGB lighting, allowing the glow to shine through and create stunning visual effects. Thus, users can expect similar acoustic results in terms of sound crispness when using either switch, supported by the shared benefits of polycarbonate.

Conversely, the bottom housing of both switches diverges in terms of material, each favoring nylon for its respective construction. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing results in a fuller and deeper sound profile, in contrast to the sharper notes produced by the polycarbonate top. Nylon's softer nature absorbs sound more effectively, creating a more muted and rounded auditory experience during typing. This difference in material architecture means that while both switches may share clarity in the upper register, the overall sound profile is defined by the interaction of both housings. Hence, the bottom-out sound and feel will uniquely convey the tonal characteristics the nylon brings to each switch.

Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in both the HMX Gravel and KTT Purple Click means that while there are differences in the sound profile from the bottom-to-top housing interaction, users will still experience a cohesive auditory output. The polycarbonate top ensures sharpness and clarity, while the nylon bottom complements this with a fuller sound, leading to a balanced auditory experience. This marriage of materials allows both switches to be versatile, appealing to users who appreciate both the aesthetic qualities of RGB lighting and varied sound profiles in their typing experience. Whether one prefers the Gravel or the Purple Click, the complementary qualities of their construction ensure a satisfying typing session.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, notable differences emerge. The Gravel switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Purple Click switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams, but its bottom out force is heavier at 55 grams. This means that while it requires less force to register a keystroke, it offers a more substantial feeling upon bottoming out. Therefore, individuals who favor a softer actuation but still want a notable resistance when pressing keys all the way down might find the KTT Purple Click preferable. Overall, the HMX Gravel is the heavier switch when considering its bottom out force, while the KTT Purple Click boasts the lighter actuation force, catering to different user preferences regarding typing experience and key resistance.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Gravel features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Purple Click, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The difference in travel distances suggests that the Gravel may offer a quicker, more responsive feel, appealing to those who prefer a snappier typing experience, particularly gamers who benefit from fast response times. On the other hand, the Purple Click's longer travel distance may provide a more pronounced tactile experience, which some users may prefer for its depth and feedback. Therefore, if you're looking for a more responsive switch, the HMX Gravel would be the better choice, whereas the KTT Purple Click would be suited for those who appreciate a deeper keystroke.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Gravel switch is noted for its exceptional smoothness, but its specific acoustic profile is not detailed, leaving its auditory characteristics somewhat ambiguous. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click switch produces a distinctly high-pitched and satisfying click, often described as crunchy, similar to the sound of stepping on crispy autumn leaves. This sound is accompanied by a resonant quality, which contributes to a clean and sharp auditory experience, making it particularly appealing to users who appreciate a pronounced click with their keystrokes.

When it comes to feel, the Gravel switch is recognized for its smooth and refined typing experience, characterized by a medium-light actuation force that enhances its effortless typing sensation. While the exact tactile feedback is not specified, this smoothness suggests a consistent and fluid keypress experience. The Purple Click switch, however, offers a more invigorating tactile experience with pronounced feedback, employing a stepped design that creates a sense of resistance both during pre-travel and post-travel. This design results in a snappy and reactive feel, providing a lively interaction with each keystroke that can contrast sharply with the Gravel’s smoothness.

Overall, the HMX Gravel linear switch is ideal for users seeking a smooth, light, and responsive typing experience, whereas the KTT Purple Click switch caters to those who enjoy auditory feedback and tactile sensations during typing. While the Gravel offers a refined and fluid experience, the Purple Click provides pronounced auditory and tactile elements that create a more engaging typing interaction. Each switch offers distinct qualities, allowing users to choose based on their preference for sound and feel. If you prioritize smoothness, the Gravel is your go-to, but if you crave tactile feedback accompanied by audible cues, the Purple Click will deliver a satisfying experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you favor a smooth and effortless typing experience with a lighter actuation force, the Gravel switch is an excellent option. Its 50 grams of bottom-out force allow for quick, responsive keystrokes, making it an ideal choice for long typing sessions, especially if you’re prone to fatigue from heavier switches. This will also appeal to those who enjoy a serene typing environment, as the Gravel is quiet compared to clicky alternatives. On the other hand, if you thrive on the tactile feedback and satisfying auditory experience of a distinct click, the KTT Purple Click switch may be your preferred pick. With a slightly higher bottom-out force of 55 grams, it provides a snappy and invigorating feel that makes each keypress engaging. This can enhance your typing experience whether you're coding, gaming, or simply enjoying a robust typing sensation. In essence, choose the Gravel for serenity and smoothness or the Purple Click for an engaging and lively experience, each catering to different aspects of keyboard enjoyment.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Gravel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

KTT Purple Click Clicky

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

Learn more