KTT Matcha vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Matcha and the KTT Purple Click are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and characteristics. The Matcha is known for its comfortable and snappy tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience. It also boasts a distinct bottom-out sound, thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Purple Click is recognized for its fairly high-pitched and satisfying click. Despite its light keystrokes, it offers a pronounced tactility without being overwhelming, striking a perfect balance. While these general descriptions give us an idea of what to expect from each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can make an informed decision and choose the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the KTT Purple Click switches share many similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, allowing for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that are designed to use RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Matcha and Purple Click switches offer a similar sound and aesthetic experience due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
However, the bottom housing of the Matcha switch differs from that of the Purple Click. The Matcha utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which further enhances the sound profile. Like the top housing, the polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. This means that the Matcha switch will produce a consistent sound both when pressing down on a key and when releasing it. In contrast, the Purple Click features a nylon bottom housing, which gives it a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound signature. As a result, the Purple Click switch will provide a different typing experience, with a more pronounced bottom-out sound.
In summary, while both the KTT Matcha and the KTT Purple Click switches have polycarbonate top housing, their differences lie in the bottom housing material. The Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing complements its top housing, creating a consistent and resonant sound throughout the key press. In contrast, the Purple Click's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, creating a unique typing experience. Whether you choose the Matcha or the Purple Click, you can expect quality housing materials that enhance the overall sound profile of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, both switches have an actuation force of 40 grams, indicating that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. This means that users can expect a similar light touch when using either switch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, there is a distinction. The Matcha has a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Purple Click has a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Purple Click requires slightly more force to fully press down compared to the Matcha. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Matcha would be the better choice, as it has a slightly lighter bottom out force. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more substantial feel and enjoy a stronger push when typing, the Purple Click would be the preferred option due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Matcha tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. When you press down on either switch, you will feel a consistent 4 mm of travel distance. This means that both switches offer a similar tactile experience and will result in similar typing or gaming results. Whether you choose the Matcha or the Purple Click, you can expect a satisfying and consistent travel distance of 4 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 Matcha switch produces a clean and distinctly clacky sound when pressed. This results in a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch offers a fairly high-pitched and satisfying click. It falls into the category of crunchy switches, which have a sound reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. Additionally, the Purple Click switch has a resonant sound profile that creates an immersive auditory experience. Overall, both switches provide unique sound qualities, with the Matcha offering a clacky sound and the Purple Click offering a crunchy, resonant click. Depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps, you can expect similar results in terms of sound, with each switch providing its own distinctive characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Matcha switch is characterized by a stepped, snappy, accented, and feathery feel. It falls into the category of stepped switches, which have two stages of tactility, providing a more mild and nuanced typing experience compared to hypertactile switches. The Matcha switch is also snappy and responsive, thanks to its longer or dual-staged springs, making typing feel more alive. With an accented tactile feel, the Matcha switch offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. Additionally, the Matcha switch has a feathery feel, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and requires little exertion from your fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch offers an invigorating feel with pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive sensation. Similar to the Matcha switch, the Purple Click switch falls into the category of stepped switches, providing some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Matcha switch focusing on a stepped, snappy, accented, and feathery feel, while the Purple Click switch provides an invigorating and snappy typing sensation.
Taking all the available information into account, the KTT Matcha and Purple Click switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Matcha switch provides a clacky sound with a clean bottom-out sound, while the Purple Click switch offers a crunchy and resonant click. In terms of feel, the Matcha switch has a stepped, snappy, accented, and feathery feel, while the Purple Click switch has an invigorating and stepped feel. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, and the choice between them will depend on the individual's preference for sound and feel. For those seeking a clean, clacky sound and a range of tactile qualities, the Matcha switch is a great option. On the other hand, if a high-pitched, satisfying click and invigorating feel are desired, the Purple Click switch would be a suitable choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a comfortable and snappy typing experience with a clean bottom-out sound, the KTT Matcha tactile switch would be a great choice for you. It has a light bottom-out force of 45 grams, making it easy on your fingers during extended typing sessions. The Matcha switch is described as stepped, snappy, accented, and feathery, meaning it offers a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Additionally, it has a clacky sound profile which is crisp, bright, and percussive.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a pronounced click, satisfying feedback, and a moderately light weight, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is the one to go for. With a bottom-out force of 55 grams, it provides a slightly firmer typing experience compared to the Matcha. The Purple Click switch is described as invigorating and stepped, giving you a reactive and immersive typing sensation. It offers a high-pitched and resonant click sound, creating a satisfying auditory experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch comes down to your personal preferences regarding tactility, sound, and typing force. Consider your priorities and select the switch that best suits your needs.
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