Keygeek Keylin vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often gravitate towards the Keygeek Keylin and the KTT Purple Click for their distinct characteristics and user experiences. The Keylin, a linear switch, is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics, providing a premium typing experience that minimizes distractions—ideal for those who prefer a quieter workspace or require precise keystrokes for gaming or typing tasks. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click, known for its pronounced tactile feedback and high-pitched click, offers an invigorating typing experience that many find satisfying and engaging, making it a great choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback and a more dynamic feel while typing. While the Keylin caters to those seeking a smooth and stealthy performance, the Purple Click appeals to users who thrive on the resonant, crunchy sensation of each keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
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
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Keylin and the KTT Purple Click, the most notable difference lies in their top housings. The Keylin features a nylon top housing, recognized for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile during typing. This is due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a muted auditory experience. Conversely, the Purple Click sports a polycarbonate top housing, prized for its ability to generate a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer properties of polycarbonate enhance the resonance of each keystroke, creating a more pronounced auditory feedback. Therefore, while both switches may provide satisfying typing experiences, the Keylin's sound is round and subdued, while the Purple Click delivers a bright and lively auditory atmosphere.
Both the Keygeek Keylin and the KTT Purple Click utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which leads to a similarity in the sound profiles produced when keys are bottomed out. As both switches feature this classic material, the impact on the overall sound is pronounced and consistent. The nylon bottom housing contributes to the deeper and fuller tonal quality felt during key presses, resulting in a rounded bottom-out sound that aligns with the characteristics described for both switches. Thus, while the top housings emphasize different auditory experiences, the use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a shared foundation where the deeper sound profile is maintained across both models.
In terms of overall performance, the unique combination of materials in the top and bottom housings of each switch can create a diverse typing experience. The Keylin’s nylon top and bottom housing results in a cohesive sound that is rounded and muted throughout the keystroke. In contrast, the Purple Click offers a distinct contrast with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, balancing the bright, crisp sound of the key release with the deeper tones generated upon bottoming out. This mixture means that even though they share nylon in the bottom housing, the differences in the top housing will lead typists to experience a unique auditory feel and response from each switch, highlighting how the interplay of materials influences the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, we see some interesting differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Keylin switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for long hours at work or gaming. In contrast, the Purple Click switch has an actuation force of 40 grams and a higher bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light and providing a noticeably firmer tactile feedback. This heavier resistance can appeal to those who favor a more substantial push feel when typing. Overall, the Keylin switch offers a lighter feel overall, whereas the Purple Click switch provides more weight in both the actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different user preferences.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Keylin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Purple Click clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Keylin is the shorter of the two, offering a slightly more responsive feel, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker keypress reactions. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click has a longer travel distance, providing a more traditional and deeper tactile experience that some users may find more satisfying. As a result, if you prefer a snappier response, the Keylin would likely be the better choice, whereas those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback might gravitate towards the Purple Click.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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 Keygeek Keylin linear switch is designed to deliver rich acoustics, creating a smooth typing experience that is likely less noisy than clicky counterparts. Although specific sound descriptors for the Keylin are not provided, it can be inferred that linear switches are generally characterized by a quieter, more muted sound profile when compared to clicky switches. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch stands out with its high-pitched, satisfying click that is reminiscent of crunching autumn leaves underfoot. This clicky sound creates an engaging auditory experience, accentuated by a resonant and sharp tonal profile. The Purple Click’s sound can be quite pronounced, appealing to those who enjoy a more expressive typing atmosphere.
In terms of feel, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch emphasizes exceptional smoothness, providing a seamless and uninterrupted keystroke experience, which is a hallmark of linear switches. While specific descriptors for its feel are not mentioned, this smoothness typically translates into a very fluid typing experience with no tactile feedback during the actuation, making it ideal for fast typists or gamers. Conversely, the KTT Purple Click switch delivers an invigorating tactile sensation, providing pronounced feedback with a moderate to firm actuation force. Its stepped feel incorporates distinct stages within the keystroke, which can lend a satisfying sense of progression as you type, appealing to users who thrive on tactile cues.
In conclusion, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the KTT Purple Click switch cater to different preferences in the typing experience. The Keylin offers a smooth and quieter experience with a rich acoustic quality, while the Purple Click provides an engagingly loud and tactile feedback with its pronounced click sound. While these switches differ significantly in sound and feel, they both serve unique functions that will satisfy different types of users. Ultimately, your choice between these two will hinge on whether you prioritize a smooth, silent experience or a tactile, clicky sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal typing style and preferences. If you favor a light touch and a smooth, quiet experience that enables you to type quickly and comfortably—perhaps for long periods of work or gaming—the Keylin is an excellent option. Its premium feel and rich acoustics can enhance your typing experience without drawing too much attention, making it ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. Conversely, if you enjoy distinct auditory feedback and tactile sensations while typing, the KTT Purple Click may be the perfect match for you. The higher actuation force provides a little more resistance, which many users find invigorating, while its satisfying click sound adds a fun, engaging layer to your keystrokes. Ultimately, your decision should align with your desire for either a smooth and stealthy typing experience or a lively and responsive one, with sound being a significant factor in your choice.
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