HMX Lucky vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lucky and KTT Purple Click present two distinct yet appealing options. The Lucky switch stands out with its softer, glittery nylon housing, delivering a typing experience that users describe as neutral and deeply satisfying, thus favoring those who appreciate a clacky and bouncy feel. Conversely, the KTT Purple Click, often referred to as Purple Sauce, offers a unique auditory experience with its high-pitched click sound that many find invigorating. It strikes a balance with light keystrokes that provide a pronounced tactility, making it ideal for users who enjoy a more resonant and stepped feedback while typing. Each switch caters to different preferences, whether you're drawn to the silky smoothness of the Lucky or the lively click of the Purple Click. 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
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
POM
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 double-staged spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX Lucky and the KTT Purple Click switches showcase two distinct materials in their top housing that ultimately influence their overall sound profile and tactile experience. The HMX Lucky utilizes a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. This characteristic leads to a more muted acoustic signature, as nylon absorbs sound rather than reflecting it. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click features a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and results in a higher-pitched, crisper sound profile. The clear nature of polycarbonate allows for enhanced sound resonance, making the Purple Click particularly appealing for users who prioritize an articulate auditory feedback while typing. Thus, while the HMX Lucky may provide a warmer typing experience, the KTT Purple Click leans towards a more pronounced and sharp auditory response.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, a different narrative unfolds regarding the material choice. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, promoting a deeper and fuller sound similar to the nylon top housing of the Lucky. This consistency in material means that users can expect a shared auditory experience when bottoming out the keys on both switches. Since the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and overall tactile feel upon pressing the key, users of either switch will likely experience a similar muted feel when striking the keys. This commonality in bottom housing material helps harmonize the auditory feedback for both the HMX Lucky and KTT Purple Click when fully engaged.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials used in the top and bottom housings leads to varied sound profiles in the HMX Lucky and KTT Purple Click switches. However, the use of nylon in both bottom housings ensures a shared auditory foundation that may offer a satisfying experience for typing enthusiasts. While the KTT Purple Click’s polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharp and clear release sound, the HMX Lucky’s nylon top provides a contrastingly softer sound. When the key is released, the nuances of each top housing material establish a distinct typing experience—where the nylon offers warmth and the polycarbonate presents clarity. Collectively, these switches illustrate how different housing materials contribute distinctly to their respective auditory and tactile perceptions while also highlighting the importance of material synergy in delivering cohesive performance.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lucky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it easier to press and ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Purple Click switch features a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams and a more substantial bottom out force of 55 grams, giving it a medium-light feel that some users might find satisfying for a more tactile experience. As such, the HMX Lucky is better suited for those who prioritize a lighter touch, while the KTT Purple Click may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel, especially for longer typing or gaming periods. Overall, the Lucky provides a softer keystroke, while the Purple Click delivers a more pronounced resistance, which could enhance the typing experience for different user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Lucky switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Purple Click switch has a slightly greater travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Lucky the shorter option between the two. For users who prefer a quicker response time, the shorter travel distance of the Lucky may be more appealing, as it allows for more immediate key presses. In contrast, the Purple Click offers a more traditional feel with a deeper travel distance, which some users may find provides a more satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus depth in key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky 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
When comparing the sound profiles of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, the differences are quite pronounced. The Lucky switch produces a clacky sound, characterized by a crisp and bright auditory response that offers a sharp and snappy feeling when the key is pressed. This sound can create a lively typing environment, adding a certain joy to each keystroke. In contrast, the Purple Click switch delivers a resonant sound, known for its higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience. The clean and sharp sound profile of the Purple Click is more pronounced due to its clicky mechanism, ensuring that every action generates a distinct audio feedback that can be quite satisfying. Ultimately, while both switches produce their own unique sounds, the Lucky focuses on a more percussive element, while the Purple Click leans into a higher-pitched resonance.
In terms of feel, the differences between the two switches are also significant. The Lucky switch offers a unique combination of bounciness, silky smoothness, and a polished typing experience. This means that it not only rebounds with an elastic feedback when pressed, but also provides a seamless and refined action that minimizes resistance, making typing feel effortless. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch is invigorating, providing pronounced tactile feedback that strikes a balance between moderate and firm actuation force. The stepped nature of the Purple Click gives it a more complex feel—allowing users to experience both a pre-travel and post-travel sensation that distinguishes each keystroke. While the Lucky focuses on lightness and smoothness, the Purple Click caters to those who enjoy a firmer, more tactile experience.
In conclusion, both the HMX Lucky linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch cater to different typing preferences through their unique auditory and tactile profiles. If you cherish an engaging sound experience with a smooth and effortless feel, the Lucky switch may be your ideal choice. However, if you find satisfaction in a pronounced tactile response paired with crisp audio feedback, the Purple Click would best suit your needs. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer the lively yet smooth action of the Lucky or the invigorating and tactile quality of the Purple Click.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you favor a typing experience that is light, silky, and smooth, the HMX Lucky, with its lower actuation force of 43 grams, will likely provide a more enjoyable experience, especially for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, where rapid key presses are required. The Lucky’s clacky sound adds an inviting auditory element while its bouncy feel provides a lively response that can enhance your overall typing enjoyment. On the other hand, if you appreciate tactile feedback and the excitement of sound while typing, the KTT Purple Click might be your go-to choice. With a medium-light force of 55 grams, its invigorating feel and pronounced click sound create a satisfying and engaging typing experience, ideal for those who want a clear auditory cue for each keystroke. The distinct resonant quality of the Purple Click can make typing feel immersive and help you stay engaged during extended work sessions. Ultimately, the right switch for you hinges on whether you prioritize smoothness and lightness or prefer tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction.