KTT Pine vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the KTT Pine and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the KTT Pine and KTT Purple Click mechanical keyboard switches, two distinct options that offer unique typing experiences. The Pine, a linear switch, is best known for its medium-heavy weight and buttery smoothness, providing an effortless typing experience. These switches have a polished, factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction and ensures smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Purple Click, a clicky switch, is renowned for its satisfying high-pitched click and light keystrokes. It strikes a perfect balance between offering pronounced tactility without being overwhelming. Categorized as bassy, buttery, creamy, low-pitched and crunchy, invigorating, resonant, stepped respectively, these switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Pine and the KTT Purple Click share several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant illumination. Additionally, the bottom housing of the KTT Purple Click is made of nylon, a classic switch housing material. Nylon imparts a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a rounder tone.
Despite these similarities, the choice of housing materials in the Pine and the Purple Click leads to distinct differences in their overall sound and feel. The Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to its clear and resonant sound, complementing the effects of the top housing. When pressing down on the Pine switch, the bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is more pronounced. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Purple Click absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Therefore, the bottom housing is responsible for the characteristics felt during key presses on the Purple Click.
While the Purple Click features a nylon bottom housing and the Pine utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, both switches deliver satisfying typing experiences. The similarities lie in their utilization of polycarbonate for the top housing, which enhances the sharpness and clarity of the sound produced. However, the distinct qualities of the different housing materials allow for variations in the overall sound and feel of each switch. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of the Pine or the deeper and fuller tone of the Purple Click, both switches offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Pine linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, there are a few notable differences. The Pine has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, positioning it as a medium-weight option. On the other hand, the Purple Click has a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which can be considered medium-light.
Consideration of weight becomes crucial when making a choice between these two switches. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Purple Click with its lower actuation and bottom out force might be more suitable. This lighter weight allows for extended typing sessions without experiencing fatigue, making it an ideal choice for office work or long gaming sessions.
On the contrary, there are those who seek a stronger and more substantial push while typing. For these individuals, the Pine switch would be the appropriate selection. With its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force, it provides a more pronounced tactile feedback, delivering a satisfying keystroke experience.
While the Pine and Purple Click switches have their differences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, it's important to note that both fall within the medium range. This means that individuals looking for a similar typing experience in terms of force can achieve comparable results with either switch. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference regarding the desired typing experience and whether a lighter or heavier option is preferred.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Pine linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures a consistent typing experience regardless of whether you choose the Pine or Purple Click switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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
The KTT Pine linear switch is known for its medium-heavy weight and smooth key travel, creating an effortless typing experience. The switch has a polished, factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction, resulting in a buttery smooth feel. In terms of sound, the Pine switch offers a deep and rich bassy tone, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the Pine switch has a low-pitched sound profile, adding to its mellow and bass-heavy characteristics.
On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is famous for its satisfying high-pitched click. The keystrokes of these switches are light, providing a pronounced tactility without overwhelming the user. The Purple Click switch offers a crunchy sound, similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. Additionally, it produces a resonant sound profile, characterized by a clean and sharp higher-pitched tone.
Overall, the KTT Pine linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Pine switch provides a smooth and effortless typing experience with its buttery and creamy feel. It produces a deep and rich bassy sound, creating a more mellow and bass-heavy auditory experience. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch offers a more tactile and invigorating typing sensation with its pronounced feedback and snappy feel. It produces a crunchy and resonant sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience.
While the switches differ in their subjective qualities, both the Pine and Purple Click switches offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a deeper sound profile or a more tactile and invigorating typing sensation with a clicky sound, both switches can deliver satisfying results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience, the KTT Pine linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. With a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, the Pine switch offers a buttery and creamy feel, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the Pine switch has a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, offering a deeper and richer sound during key presses.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile and clicky switch, the KTT Purple Click switch might be more suitable for you. With a slightly lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, the Purple Click switch provides a pronounced feedback and an invigorating typing sensation. It has a crunchy and resonant sound profile, resembling the satisfying click of stepping on piles of autumn leaves.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Pine linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the Pine switch is the way to go. However, if you enjoy a tactile feel with a clicky sound, the Purple Click switch would be a great option. Consider your typing style and desired auditory experience when making your decision.
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