HMX Jelly vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the HMX Jelly and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Jelly and KTT Purple Click offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The HMX Jelly, known for its linear characteristics, delivers a low-pitched, deep thocky sound profile that provides a smooth typing experience, thanks in part to its excellent factory lubrication and a lightweight 42g actuation force. This makes it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a quiet environment and a fluid keystroke—great for both gaming and typing without disturbing others. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click, recognized for its clicky sound, boasts a satisfying high-pitched click that enhances the typing experience with its light yet pronounced tactility. This switch strikes a harmonious balance, appealing to those who enjoy audible feedback and a more engaging interaction with their keyboard. By understanding these general attributes, you can start to determine which switch might fit your needs better; 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
42g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Jelly and the KTT Purple Click switches, a distinct difference emerges in their top housings. The Jelly uses a nylon top housing, which is known for its softness and sound-dampening qualities. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the nylon effectively absorbs vibrations, contributing to a rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Purple Click features a polycarbonate top housing. This material is significantly stiffer, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. Furthermore, polycarbonate’s translucency allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it an appealing option for users looking for aesthetic illumination along with acoustic clarity.
On the other hand, both the Jelly and the Purple Click utilize nylon for their bottom housings. The use of nylon in this segment maintains a uniform characteristic, providing a deeper sound profile and cushier feel during key presses. This shared material ensures that both switches elicit a similar tactile experience upon bottoming out due to nylon's sound-absorbing properties. Since the bottom housing affects the sound and feel of the switch when it is pressed down, users can expect a consistent depth and fullness in the auditory feedback regardless of the top housing material.
Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials for the top and bottom of these switches creates a varied typing experience. The Jelly’s nylon top generates a warming tone when releasing a key, while the Purple Click’s polycarbonate top offers crisper sounds. However, given that both switches employ nylon for their bottoms, they share common ground in terms of overall tactile comfort and sound when fully pressed. By leveraging the unique acoustic traits of their respective top housings and maintaining similarity in their bottom housings, both the HMX Jelly and KTT Purple Click can deliver distinct sound profiles while also ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch to the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The HMX Jelly features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, classifying it as a lighter switch. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click has a slightly lower actuation force of 40 grams, making it very comparable in this regard, but its bottom out force is notably heavier at 55 grams. This distinction signifies that while both switches can be actuated with relatively low force, the Jelly provides a lighter overall feel, particularly at the bottom out stage. Users who prefer a softer, easier typing experience may gravitate towards the HMX Jelly, especially during prolonged use, while those who favor a more substantial typing response may appreciate the heavier bottom out of the KTT Purple Click.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, the Jelly switch measures 3.8 mm, while the Purple Click switch offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Purple Click switch provides a more pronounced key press experience, which is often preferred by users who appreciate a deeper tactile feedback when typing or gaming. The Jelly's shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm may cater more to gamers seeking quicker response times and more rapid key actuation. In this context, if you prioritize speed and a less abrupt feel, the HMX Jelly would be the better choice. Conversely, if you enjoy the sensation of a longer travel that gives a more substantial feel during use, the KTT Purple Click is likely more suited to your liking.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly for $2.99.
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 HMX Jelly linear switch produces a low-pitched, deep thock that is characterized as a pleasant and rich auditory experience. This sound is generally smooth and subdued, making it ideal for users who prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing quality. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click switch offers a distinctly high-pitched, crunchy sound that is reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. Its resonant profile not only makes for an exciting auditory experience but also possesses a sharpness that enhances the feedback during typing, appealing to those who enjoy the pronounced auditory signals typical of clicky switches.
When we consider the feel of the switches, the Jelly switch is known for its exceptional smoothness, allowing for a fluid typing experience with its lightweight 42g actuation force. Users can expect to glide effortlessly across the keycaps, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch is invigorating, offering a pronounced feedback with a snappy and reactive feel. The stepped characteristic of this switch provides a mild tactile sensation with its dual-stage actuation, creating a unique typing experience that feels both engaging and satisfying, especially for those who enjoy tactile cues during their keystrokes.
Overall, both the HMX Jelly linear switch and the KTT Purple Click switch provide distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Jelly's deep thock and smooth actuation promote a serene yet responsive feel, making it perfect for those who prefer a linear experience. Conversely, the Purple Click combines an auditory delight with tactile feedback, making it ideal for typists who thrive on the engaging sounds and sensations of a clicky switch. Depending on your preference for sound, feel, and typing style, either switch can lead to an enjoyable experience, but the characteristics differentiate them significantly to suit various user needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a smooth and quiet experience with a lower actuation force, the Jelly switch may be your best bet. Its thocky sound signature and lightweight feel make it ideal for those who enjoy a more subtle auditory feedback and a tactile, refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you find joy in the crisp, resonant clicks and pronounced tactile feedback of clicky switches, then the Purple Click is likely the right choice for you. Its medium-light actuation force, combined with the invigorating and stepped feedback it provides, can enhance your typing experience, especially if you enjoy the vibrant sound of each keystroke. Therefore, assess whether you lean towards a smooth, muted typing experience or a more tactile and auditory one, and select the switch that aligns best with your preferences.
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