Durock Light Tactile vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Purple Click are both popular choices, offering unique advantages. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is notable for its gentle tactility, setting it apart from the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. Typing on these switches provides an angelic tactility and a soft, jelly-like sound. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch, also known as Purple Sauce, boasts a distinct attribute - a satisfying, high-pitched click. While the keystrokes are light, they still offer a pronounced tactility without being overwhelming, striking a perfect equilibrium. With the Light Tactile switch providing a gentle typing experience and the Purple Click switch delivering an invigorating click, both switches have their merits. However, let's delve deeper to help you determine the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Purple Click switches have several similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for the translucency necessary for RGB lighting effects. This means that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits when using either switch.
However, the differences lie in the bottom housing of the switches. The Light Tactile utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Purple Click also features a nylon bottom housing, so the sound profile and typing experience will be similar to the Light Tactile in this aspect.
When comparing the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switch, it becomes apparent that the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect a slightly different experience based on the housing materials of these switches. The Light Tactile will offer a sharper, higher-pitched sound with a deeper and fuller bottom-out feel, whereas the Purple Click will provide a similar sound profile but with a slightly different bottom-out experience due to the nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Purple Click switches, there are some notable differences. The Light Tactile switch has an actuation force of 52 grams, while the Purple Click has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. This means that the Light Tactile switch requires slightly more force to register a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Light Tactile switch is heavier, with a force of 67 grams compared to the Purple Click's 55 grams. This means that the Light Tactile switch will provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Considering the weight aspect, some individuals may prefer the Light Tactile switch for its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. This can provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a substantial feel when pressing the keys. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch's lighter actuation and bottom out forces may be preferred by those who value a lighter touch, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This is particularly useful for scenarios like work or extended gaming sessions.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Light Tactile and KTT Purple Click switches depends on individual preferences. Those who prioritize a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Light Tactile switch, while those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may find the Purple Click switch more suitable. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, allowing users to tailor their keyboard experience to their specific needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch is the same as the travel distance of the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, both measuring at 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, the user will experience a similar distance of travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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
The Durock Light Tactile switch is known for its gentle tactility and jelly-like sound signature. When typing on these switches, users can expect a soft and angelic tactility, creating a pleasant typing experience. The sound profile of the Light Tactile is described as neutral, meaning it has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most purposes. This makes it versatile whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. Keep in mind that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by factors like the type of keyboard and keycaps you use.
On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch is known for its high-pitched and satisfying click. These switches offer light keystrokes with a pronounced tactility that is not overwhelming. This creates a perfect balance between the clicking sensation and the actuation force required. The sound profile of the Purple Click switch is described as crunchy and resonant. When typing on these switches, you can expect the sound of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves, along with a clean and sharp higher-pitched sound. This provides an immersive auditory experience while typing.
In terms of feel, the Light Tactile switch offers a mild typing experience with a gentle feedback. It falls in the middle ground, providing approachable qualities for most users. The switch is also described as polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch is characterized as invigorating, offering a snappy and reactive feel. It provides pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force, creating an immersive typing sensation. Additionally, the Purple Click switch is referred to as a stepped switch, meaning it has two stages of tactility with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Light Tactile switch provides a gentle and jelly-like sound signature, along with a soft and polished feel. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch offers a high-pitched and satisfying click sound, along with an invigorating and stepped feel. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a softer and gentler typing experience or a more pronounced and satisfying click, both switches can provide similar results in terms of overall satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a gentle and smooth tactility, along with a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Light Tactile is the way to go. This switch offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing enough resistance without being cumbersome. It is perfect for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use it at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a satisfying and pronounced click, the KTT Purple Click is a great choice. With a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, this switch offers light keystrokes while still providing a noticeable tactility. The high-pitched click sound adds an immersive auditory experience to your typing sessions.
In terms of sound, the Light Tactile offers a neutral profile, making it suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the Purple Click provides a crunchy and resonant sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves.
When it comes to feel, the Light Tactile offers a mild and polished experience. It provides a gentle and approachable typing sensation, thanks to its refined finish and reduced friction. On the other hand, the Purple Click offers an invigorating and stepped feel. The pronounced feedback and reactive nature of this switch create an immersive typing experience, with a mild pre-travel and/or post-travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Light Tactile and the KTT Purple Click depends on your personal preferences. If you enjoy a smooth and gentle tactility with a neutral sound profile, go for the Light Tactile. If you prefer a satisfying click and a crunchy sound, along with an invigorating and stepped feel, the Purple Click is the switch for you.
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