Haimu Orange Sea vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Haimu Orange Sea and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Haimu Orange Sea and the KTT Purple Click can significantly influence your typing experience. The Haimu Orange Sea, categorized as a linear switch, is celebrated for its impeccably smooth feel and neutral sound signature, allowing for quiet and effortless keystrokes that many typists appreciate for both gaming and long periods of writing. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click, also known as Purple Sauce, stands out for its engaging clicky feedback—a high-pitched, satisfying sound combined with a light, tactile keystroke. This switch strikes a balance between pronounced tactility and a resonant sound, making it a favorite for those who enjoy an audible response while typing. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you prefer the silent, smooth operation of the Orange Sea or the invigorating auditory feedback 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Haimu Orange Sea and the KTT Purple Click switches, we observe significant similarities that contribute to their respective audio profiles. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is noted for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This shared use of polycarbonate not only enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing but also optimizes the aesthetic integration of RGB lighting, thanks to the material's translucency. Users can expect similar lighting effects and sound characteristics from both switches due to this commonality in the top housing material.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials diverge, with both the Orange Sea and the Purple Click employing nylon. Known historically as a classic switch housing material, nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a more rounded acoustic experience when typing. Although both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, the difference in sound characteristics of the top and bottom housings creates a unique auditory experience for each switch. As pressing down on the switch evokes the qualities of the nylon bottom housing, users might notice that the bottom-out sound and feel differ slightly depending on the particular overall design and engineering of each switch.
Ultimately, the combination of materials used in both the Haimu Orange Sea and KTT Purple Click switches reflects a thoughtful design that balances the properties each material brings. While the top housing's polycarbonate imparts a bright, clear sound when keys are released, the nylon bottom housing deepens the auditory experience when keys are pressed. Consequently, despite sharing identical materials for both the top and bottom housings, the individual characteristics and ergonomics of each switch will influence the overall typing experience. Users can expect a familiar auditory signature, yet they may find that the nuances of feel and sound will resonate differently, illustrating the complexity of switch dynamics in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, there are distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Orange Sea features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it easier to press down with less effort, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Purple Click has a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams and an even heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, which provides a more substantial tactile feel for users who prefer a stronger push. This weight makes the Purple Click suitable for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, if you're seeking a lighter switch for comfort during long periods of use, the Haimu Orange Sea is the better option, whereas the KTT Purple Click caters to those favoring a stronger, more defined keystroke sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it's evident that they cater to different preferences in typing feel. The Haimu Orange Sea features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it a shorter option that may appeal to gamers due to its quicker response times. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click has a travel distance of 4 mm, providing a more traditional feel that some users may find preferable for a satisfying typing experience. Those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress and deeper feedback will likely gravitate towards the longer travel distance of the Purple Click switch. Ultimately, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Haimu Orange Sea is the better choice, while the KTT Purple Click offers a more robust tactile experience with its longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 per 10 switches.
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
The sound characteristics of the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch present a neutral auditory experience, which means that it operates quietly and cleanly, making it ideal for environments where noise might be a concern. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch delivers a high-pitched, satisfying clicking noise that evokes the sensation of stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. This resonant sound profile elevates the typing experience, providing feedback that is not only audible but also enhances the overall engagement with the keyboard. The differences in sound between these two switches cater to individual preferences, with the Orange Sea being suitable for quiet settings and the Purple Click being more suited for those who enjoy a pronounced acoustic feedback during typing.
In terms of feel, the Haimu Orange Sea provides an impeccably smooth typing experience, characterized by its linear action, which allows for uninterrupted keypresses without tactile bumps. This smoothness caters to typists who prefer less resistance and enjoy a seamless keystroke. Conversely, the KTT Purple Click features invigorating feedback with a moderately firm actuation force. The tactile sensation is more pronounced due to its stepped design, which allows typists to feel distinct stages during the keystroke, creating an engaging and reactive typing experience. This tactile nature can enhance typing accuracy and pleasure for those who enjoy responsive switches.
In summary, selecting between the Haimu Orange Sea and the KTT Purple Click involves understanding their distinct sound and feel profiles. The Orange Sea offers a smooth and neutral typing experience that is quieter and more suitable for focused work environments, while the Purple Click provides a vigorous, tactile sensation accompanied by a resonant and satisfying click. Your choice will ultimately depend on whether you prioritize a silent and fluid typing experience or an engaging and auditory feedback-rich interaction with your keyboard. Both switches promise to cater to different preferences, ensuring a gratifying typing experience regardless of the direction you choose.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch largely depends on your personal preference and typing habits. If you prefer a smooth, quieter typing experience with a light key actuation at 45 grams, the Haimu Orange Sea is an excellent option. It's particularly suitable for those who engage in intensive typing or gaming sessions where minimal sound distraction and fluid keystrokes are essential. On the other hand, if you enjoy an auditory feedback experience and appreciate a firm typing sensation, the KTT Purple Click will serve you well with its pronounced click and medium-light 55-gram actuation force. The crispy, resonant sound of the Purple Click adds a delightful layer of satisfaction to each keystroke, making it ideal for users who thrive on tactile and auditory experiences while typing. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style—whether you favor the serene smoothness of the Orange Sea or the invigorating feedback of the Purple Click.
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