KTT Lightning vs. KTT Purple Click

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Lightning and the KTT Purple Click offer distinct features to suit different preferences. The Lightning switches are renowned for their "speed" capabilities, making them a great choice for gamers and those who prioritize swift response times. Typing on the Lightning switches provides a slick and invigorating experience, accompanied by a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Purple Click switches are known for their satisfying high-pitched click, offering a balanced tactile feedback that enhances typing without overwhelming the user. Favored for their light and crunchy keystrokes, these switches strike a perfect equilibrium between responsiveness and comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Lightning Linear

KTT Purple Click Clicky

$3.41 per 10

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

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Housing materials

Both the KTT Lightning and the KTT Purple Click feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, a relatively stiffer plastic, enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch's sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant and visually appealing effects. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal when using switches with polycarbonate top housings, whether it is the Lightning or the Purple Click.

In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Lightning and the Purple Click utilize nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. As a relatively softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Consequently, regardless of whether it is the Lightning or the Purple Click, users can anticipate a similar experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.

It is important to note that the qualities brought about by the top and bottom housings might differ in switches with separate materials for each. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing primarily influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect variations in the overall sound profile and tactile experience based on the combination of the top and bottom housing materials specific to each switch.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it is evident that both switches offer a relatively light typing experience. The Lightning switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Purple Click switch has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams.

In terms of actuation force, the Purple Click requires a slightly lighter touch compared to the Lightning switch. This means that users who prefer a more sensitive keystroke and effortless typing experience may lean towards the Purple Click switch. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Lightning switch requires slightly less force than the Purple Click switch, making it easier to fully depress the keys.

Considering weight, some users may prefer the Lightning switch as it allows for longer typing sessions due to its lighter actuation force. This makes it ideal for individuals who use their keyboards extensively, whether at work or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch provides a slightly more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. This may be preferred by those who enjoy a firmer push feel when typing.

Overall, both the KTT Lightning linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch provide different preferences for users. The Lightning switch offers a lighter overall experience, while the Purple Click switch provides a medium-light feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it is clear that the Lightning has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm, while the Purple Click has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Lightning offers a more shallow press, ideal for those who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Purple Click provides a deeper and more substantial feel, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or tactile feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Lightning switch is known for its clacky sound profile. This means that when pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Additionally, the Lightning switch has a slightly higher-pitched sound, which adds to its overall sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch is described as crunchy and resonant. The Purple Click switch offers a satisfying click that is fairly high-pitched, creating a clean and sharp sound profile. Both switches provide unique sound experiences, with the Lightning switch being more clacky and higher-pitched, while the Purple Click switch offers a crisp and crunchy click sound.

In terms of feel, the KTT Lightning switch is known for its subtle and polished qualities. The subtle resistance of the Lightning switch provides a gentle but not feather-light typing feel. This makes it suitable for fast typing and gameplay, where milliseconds can make a difference. The polished finish of the switch adds to a smooth and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch offers an invigorating and stepped feel. The Purple Click switch provides pronounced feedback and a snappy feel, with a moderate to firm actuation force. Additionally, the stepped feel of the switch allows for some pre-travel and/or post-travel, giving it a mild tactile sensation. Both switches have their distinct advantages, with the Lightning switch offering a subtle and polished typing experience and the Purple Click switch providing an invigorating and stepped feel.

Taking into account all the available information, the KTT Lightning and Purple Click switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lightning switch has a clacky sound profile with a higher-pitched sound, providing a slick typing experience. Its subtle and polished feel adds to a light and smooth typing feel. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch offers a satisfying click sound that is crisp and resonant. Its invigorating and stepped feel provides pronounced feedback and a snappy typing experience. While the sound and feel of these switches are different, they both offer unique advantages based on individual preferences. Depending on whether you prioritize a clacky and higher-pitched sound or a satisfying click sound, along with a subtle and polished feel or an invigorating and stepped feel, you can choose the switch that suits your typing style and preference.

Conclusion

In summary, if you are looking for a switch that prioritizes speed and responsiveness, the KTT Lightning linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With a light bottom out force of 50 grams, it provides a slick typing feel that is perfect for situations where milliseconds can make a difference between winning and losing. The Lightning switch also offers a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed.

On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that combines a satisfying click with a light tactile feedback, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is the way to go. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams, it offers a medium-light typing feel that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. The Purple Click switch is renowned for its high-pitched, pleasing click, which adds an immersive auditory experience to your typing.

Ultimately, your choice between the Lightning and Purple Click switches will depend on your specific preferences and needs. If you prioritize speed and a slick typing feel, opt for the Lightning. If you desire a clicky switch with a balance of tactile feedback and a satisfying sound profile, go for the Purple Click. Both switches offer unique features that can enhance your typing experience, so you can't go wrong with either choice.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Lightning Linear

$3.41 per 10

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KTT Purple Click Clicky

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

Learn more