Gateron Mars vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard, the type of switch can significantly influence your typing experience, and two contrasting options to consider are the Gateron Mars and the KTT Purple Click. The Gateron Mars, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth keystrokes that eliminate the tactile feedback often sought by gamers and typists who prefer a quieter, uninterrupted typing experience. With its unique POK stem and a durable housing made from a blend of Nylon and POM, the Mars is an excellent choice for those who value speed and fluidity in their key presses. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch is designed to provide a more invigorating typing experience, characterized by its sharp, high-pitched click and pronounced tactility, making it ideal for users who enjoy audible and physical feedback with each keystroke. This switch, known for its "crunchy" and "resonant" properties, appeals to those who relish in the unmistakable sound of a click while typing. 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.20 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
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Gateron Mars and KTT Purple Click switches showcase distinct materials for their top housings, resulting in contrasting sound profiles. The Mars utilizes a nylon top housing, which is noted for its ability to produce a deeper and more muted sound. This is attributed to nylon's softer plastic composition, allowing it to absorb sound more effectively than harder alternatives. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click features a polycarbonate top housing, known for generating a sharper and crisper sound profile. Due to the stiffness and translucency of polycarbonate, switches with this material can create a resonant sound that is more defined, which can be particularly enhanced when paired with RGB lighting.
When we shift our focus to the bottom housings, both switches again demonstrate different material choices. The Gateron Mars employs POM for its bottom housing, which contributes to a unique yet muted sound profile that leans toward deeper tones. Meanwhile, the KTT Purple Click utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, similar to the Mars's top housing material. This shared nylon characteristic means that, when typing on the KTT Purple Click, users can expect a fuller and deeper sound experience from the bottom housing, reflective of the classic presence of nylon in switch construction.
The differentiation in sound profiles between these two switches is thus a product of both top and bottom housing materials, leading to unique typing experiences. While the nylon top housing of the Mars results in a more subdued sound, the polycarbonate top of the Purple Click creates a crisper auditory result. Conversely, the similarities between the nylon bottom housing of the Purple Click and the POM bottom of the Mars lead to a common ground in deeper and more muted sounds for both. Consequently, regardless of the variation in materials for the top and bottom housings, both switches can present a balance of sound characteristics that appeal to different preferences, creating unique yet comparable typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mars linear switch to the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, we see a notable difference in their actuation forces. The Mars switch requires a force of 45 grams to actuate, while the KTT Purple Click has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. This means the Purple Click is easier to press, making it potentially more suitable for users who type for long periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Mars is unknown, while the Purple Click has a defined bottom out force of 55 grams, classified as medium-light. This indicates that users will experience a firmer end feel with the Purple Click when bottoming out compared to the Mars, whose bottom out force remains unspecified. Ultimately, those seeking a lighter touch may prefer the KTT Purple Click, whereas users desiring a potentially more substantial typing experience with a heavier feel might gravitate towards the Gateron Mars, although the lack of a bottom out force for the Mars complicates a direct comparison in terms of overall pressure feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Mars linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, the differences become apparent. The Gateron Mars has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Purple Click boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Mars switch, with its shorter travel distance, can provide a more responsive feel, which is often favored by gamers who require quick actuation in their gameplay. Conversely, the KTT Purple Click, with its longer travel distance, offers a more pronounced feedback that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Therefore, if you value quicker responses, the Gateron Mars would be the better choice, while those who enjoy a deeper keystroke might lean toward the KTT Purple Click. Ultimately, the travel distance of the Mars switch is shorter than that of the Purple Click switch, making it the swiftier option of the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Mars switch has not been characterized in the provided information, leaving its auditory profile a mystery. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click switch delivers a distinctly crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves, making it a gratifying choice for those who enjoy an audible typing experience. The Purple Click also features a resonant quality, producing a higher-pitched and sharp sound that contributes to a clean and immersive auditory feedback while typing. When it comes to sound, users gravitating towards the KTT Purple Click will undoubtedly appreciate the engaging auditory characteristics it offers, while the Mars switch remains an unknown variable.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mars switch lacks a clear description, leaving potential users to speculate about its tactile feedback and overall typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch is praised for its invigorating sensation, providing pronounced feedback with a moderate to firm actuation force, which makes for a snappier and more dynamic typing experience. Its stepped design allows for a distinct dual-stage sensation that can be felt during both pre-travel and post-travel movement, enhancing tactile awareness without overwhelming the user. This combination of features leads to a typing sensation that is both responsive and satisfying for those who prefer a tactile touch.
Overall, if you're exploring the Gateron Mars and KTT Purple Click switches, you’ll find a clear distinction in their sound and feel, with the Purple Click standing out for its auditory and tactile traits. While the Mars switch does not have defined qualities in these areas, it could offer a more neutral experience, possibly appealing to those who prefer subtlety. Ultimately, if sound and feel are critical aspects of your typing experience, leaning towards the KTT Purple Click will provide a specific and engaging experience, while the Mars switch remains a wildcard waiting to be discovered.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Mars linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prioritize a smooth and uninterrupted typing experience, the Mars switch is ideal for you, especially if you favor quick keystrokes or gaming sessions where precision and speed are paramount. Its unique construction allows for a fluid feel, making it a great choice for those who lean towards long typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, if you enjoy the tactile feedback that a clicky switch provides, the KTT Purple Click will be your go-to option. With its delightful high-pitched sound and invigorating feel, it adds excitement to your typing experience, making it perfect for both casual users who appreciate auditory feedback and those seeking a more engaged typing experience. Ultimately, consider what aspects matter most to you—smoothness versus tactile feedback—to select the switch that best elevates your typing enjoyment.
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