Durock Medium Tactile vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out: the Durock Medium Tactile and the KTT Purple Click. These switches offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Medium Tactile from Durock is renowned for its unique flavor of tactility, striking the perfect balance between pronounced feedback and gentle keystrokes. What sets it apart is the jelly-like sound signature it produces. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch, also known as Purple Sauce, is celebrated for its high-pitched and satisfying click. While the keystrokes are light, they still offer a noticeable level of tactility without overwhelming the user. Both switches bring their own set of advantages to the table. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities, so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the KTT Purple Click, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing.
However, there is a difference in the bottom housing material for these switches. The Medium Tactile employs nylon for its bottom housing, while the Purple Click also uses nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. Consequently, typing on switches with nylon bottom housing will create a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both the Medium Tactile and the Purple Click will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to their nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either of these switches, the bottom housing's characteristics will be more noticeable in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a more pronounced impact on the sound that occurs when releasing a key. This distinction highlights the influence of the different housing materials in various aspects of the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Durock Medium Tactile switch has an unavailable actuation force, making it difficult to directly compare to the Purple Click's 40 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Durock switch is heavier with a measurement of 65 grams, whereas the Purple Click requires a lighter 55 grams of force to bottom out.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the KTT Purple Click switch would be the more suitable choice. With its 40 grams actuation force and 55 grams bottom out force, this switch provides a lighter touch and is ideal for extended typing sessions or long gaming periods. The reduced force required makes it easier on the fingers and provides a smoother typing experience.
On the other hand, for individuals who enjoy a stronger push and desire a more substantial typing feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch would be the better option. Although the actuation force is unavailable, indicating a potentially heavier force requirement, the 65 grams bottom out force suggests a medium-heavy switch. This heavier force requirement may provide a satisfying tactile feedback and a more pronounced typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style. If a lighter touch is preferred, the KTT Purple Click switch would be the appropriate choice. However, for those who prefer a heavier and more substantial feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch would be a better fit. Both switches offer distinct advantages, and selecting the right one will contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. Therefore, both switches will provide similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium 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 Medium 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Medium Tactile is best described as having a jelly-like sound signature. While the exact details of its sound profile are not mentioned, it can be inferred that the Medium Tactile offers a unique, softer sound characteristic that is likely to be enjoyable for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click is known for its satisfying, fairly high-pitched click. Described as crunchy and resonant, the Purple Click switch produces a sound similar to stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. It offers a clean and sharp sound profile, resulting in an immersive auditory experience. However, it is important to note that the sound of these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Medium Tactile is a switch that provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. It can be described as an accented switch, meaning it offers a medium level of tactility that is not hypertactile nor scratchy. Additionally, the Medium Tactile switch has a stepped feel, meaning it provides a mild tactile sensation that allows for some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Furthermore, it is considered a mild switch, offering a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. The switch is also polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch offers an invigorating typing experience, characterized by pronounced feedback and a snappy and reactive feel. Similar to the Durock Medium Tactile, it also has a stepped feel, allowing for some pre-travel and/or post-travel. However, more specific information about the feel of the Purple Click switch is not provided.
Overall, the Durock Medium Tactile and the KTT Purple Click switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Medium Tactile provides a jelly-like sound signature, a prominent yet balanced tactility, and a stepped and polished feel. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch offers a satisfying, high-pitched click sound, an invigorating feel with pronounced feedback, and a stepped feel. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can deliver enjoyable typing experiences, although they have varying characteristics. It is important to consider factors such as sound profiles, tactile feedback, and personal preferences when making the final decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and a pronounced yet balanced tactility, the Durock Medium Tactile would be a great choice. It offers a jelly-like sound signature that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams and a high-pitched, satisfying click, the KTT Purple Click switch is perfect for you. It provides a pronounced tactility without being overwhelming, creating a perfect equilibrium. In terms of sound, the Medium Tactile offers a sound profile that is yet to be described. The Purple Click, however, produces a crunchy and resonant sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves, providing an immersive auditory experience. When it comes to feel, the Medium Tactile is described as having an accented, stepped, mild, and polished feel. This means that it provides a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle, and it offers a smooth and refined typing experience. Similarly, the Purple Click offers an invigorating and stepped feel, providing pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive typing sensation. Ultimately, the decision between the Durock Medium Tactile and the KTT Purple Click comes down to your preferences for bottom out force, tactility, sound, and feel. Whatever your choice, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
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