KTT Laurel vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Laurel and the KTT Purple Click. The Laurel is a linear switch, known for its medium-light feel and impressive responsiveness. With a full POM housing, short travel distance, and long pole design, this switch offers a perfect balance of comfort and speed. Additionally, the Laurel emits a subtly low-pitched sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch, also known as Purple Sauce, stands out for its satisfyingly high-pitched click. While the keystrokes are light, they still provide a pronounced tactility without overwhelming the user. This switch offers a perfect equilibrium between a crunchy feel and an invigorating typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the KTT Purple Click differ in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Laurel's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Purple Click's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of appearance, the translucent nature of the polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, whereas the POM housing does not offer this feature. Despite these differences, both housing materials provide pleasing and unique sound characteristics.
In terms of bottom housing, the Laurel and the Purple Click also have distinct qualities in their housing materials. The POM bottom housing of the Laurel contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Purple Click elicits a fuller and more rounded sound. The difference in the plastics used affects the absorption of sound, with nylon absorbing more than harder plastics. This results in a duller sound from the nylon bottom housing. When typing on these switches, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel.
It is important to note that if a switch features different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a more pronounced effect on the sound when releasing the key. Despite these differences, both switches offer their unique advantages based on the combination of housing materials used, resulting in a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, there are a few notable differences. The Laurel has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, while the Purple Click requires 40 grams to trigger a keystroke. Both switches have light actuation forces, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Laurel requires 50 grams to fully press the key down, while the Purple Click has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Purple Click offers a bit more resistance when fully pressing the key, providing a more substantial feel during typing.
Considering the weight aspect, the Laurel switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces than the Purple Click. This makes the Laurel ideal for longer periods of typing, as the lighter switches allow for reduced finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Purple Click with its slightly heavier forces may be preferred by those who desire a more tactile and firm typing experience.
In summary, the Laurel switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Purple Click, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a lighter and smoother typing experience. However, the Purple Click offers a bit more resistance during bottoming out, providing a more tactile and substantial feel. By considering individual preferences and needs, users can select the switch that best suits their typing style and preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it is evident that the Purple Click has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Laurel has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Purple Click being closer to the standard 4.0 mm distance. However, it is worth noting that shorter travel distances have gained popularity in recent times, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. In this case, the Laurel would be the preferred option as it offers a slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a more substantial feel. For those seeking greater depth and a more tactile experience, the Purple Click's longer travel distance would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and requirements.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 KTT Laurel linear switch offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile. This means that the sound produced when typing on these switches will have a more mellow and bass-heavy tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is described as having a fairly high-pitched, satisfying click. This means that when typing on these switches, you will experience a sound similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. It provides a clean and sharp sound profile, creating an immersive auditory experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the KTT Laurel linear switch is described as being snappy. This means that these switches offer a super responsive typing experience. The snappiness is often attributed to longer or dual-staged springs, which make the typing experience feel more alive. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is described as invigorating. This means that these switches offer pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. This creates an immersive typing sensation. Additionally, the KTT Purple Click switch is also referred to as being stepped, which means that it has a tactile feel with two stages. It provides a more mild experience compared to hypertactile switches, allowing for some pre-travel and/or post-travel to be felt.
In conclusion, the KTT Laurel and the KTT Purple Click switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Laurel has a low-pitched sound profile, while the Purple Click has a high-pitched click sound. The Laurel switch has a snappy feel, while the Purple Click switch offers an invigorating and stepped typing sensation. It's important to consider these qualities when choosing between the two switches, keeping in mind personal preferences and the overall typing experience desired. If similar results to the Laurel switch are desired, one could opt for a linear switch with a full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design. Similarly, if similar results to the Purple Click switch are desired, one could choose a clicky switch with a high-pitched click sound and a light keystroke with pronounced tactility.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are in search of a medium-light linear switch that offers a perfect balance of responsiveness and comfort, the KTT Laurel switch is an excellent choice. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams, POM housing, and short travel, this switch provides a snappy and comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the Laurel switch produces a subtly low-pitched sound profile, which can be more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a satisfying click and pronounced tactility without being overwhelming, the KTT Purple Click switch is the one for you. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, the Purple Click switch strikes a balance between light keystrokes and a moderate to firm actuation force, providing an invigorating and reactive feel while typing. The Purple Click switch is renowned for its fairly high-pitched and crunchy click sound, resembling the sound of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves.
Ultimately, your decision between the KTT Laurel and Purple Click switches will depend on your preferences. If you prioritize a linear switch with a comfortable and responsive feel, accompanied by a low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel switch is an excellent option. However, if you desire a clicky switch with pronounced feedback, a satisfying crunchy click sound, and a lively typing sensation, the Purple Click switch would be your ideal choice.
In the end, both switches offer unique features and advantages, allowing you to customize your typing experience based on your preferences and typing style.
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