Kailh Plum vs. KTT Purple Click

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Plum and the KTT Purple Click. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, ultimately allowing individuals to customize their typing experience. The Plum is best known for its hefty feel without a strong tactile bump, offering a distinct sensation compared to other tactile switches. Additionally, the Plum has a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch is characterized by its satisfying high-pitched click and light keystrokes. It strikes a balance between pronounced tactility and a gentle touch, creating a satisfying typing experience. While these general pointers provide a glimpse into the differences between the two switches, diving deeper into their specific attributes will help you make an informed decision about the best switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Kailh Plum Tactile

KTT Purple Click Clicky

$6.25 per 10

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

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Housing materials

The Kailh Plum and the KTT Purple Click both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, offering a similar sound profile. The polycarbonate material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing on the switches. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting, adding aesthetic appeal to the switches. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound experience from both the Plum and Purple Click switches due to their common use of polycarbonate top housing.

In terms of the bottom housing, both the Plum and Purple Click switches utilize nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. Therefore, users can expect a similar deep and full sound experience from both switches when used with their nylon bottom housing.

While the top and bottom housings of a switch can impact different aspects of the typing experience, the Kailh Plum and KTT Purple Click offer similar qualities in terms of sound production. The bottom housing, made of nylon for both switches, contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, eliciting a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the top housing, made of polycarbonate for both switches, plays a role in the sound when releasing a key. Thus, users can expect comparable results in terms of sound when using either the Plum or Purple Click switches.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of the Plum switch is not available, while the Purple Click switch has an actuation force of 40 grams. This means that the Purple Click requires a lighter touch to register a keystroke. On the other hand, when it comes to bottoming out, the Plum switch has a heavier force of 70 grams, while the Purple Click has a slightly lighter force of 55 grams. This indicates that the Plum switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, whereas the Purple Click provides a lighter touch for quicker actuation. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Purple Click is a suitable option, ideal for extended typing sessions or extended gaming. However, for those who prefer the feeling of a more substantial keystroke, the Plum switch offers a heavier bottom out force for a more satisfying typing experience. Overall, the actuation force and bottom out force of the two switches provide different options to cater to individual preferences.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Kailh Plum tactile switch is 3.6 mm, while the KTT Purple Click clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Comparing the two, the Purple Click has a slightly longer travel distance. 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional travel distance, while 3.6 mm falls on the shorter side. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, often prefer shorter travel distances. In this case, the Plum tactile switch would be the preferred choice. However, for some individuals, shorter travel distances may feel too abrupt and lack depth. In such cases, the Purple Click clicky switch with its longer travel distance could be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is enjoyable and not overly loud. This makes it suitable for a variety of environments, whether you are using it at home or in a professional setting. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is known for its high-pitched and satisfying click sound. It provides a crunchy and resonant sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. Depending on your preference, the Plum switch offers a more neutral and versatile sound experience, while the Purple Click switch provides a distinctive and satisfying click.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as having a mild and stepped feel. This means that it provides a gentle typing experience with a safe, middle-ground approach. The switch has a moderate actuation force, making it approachable for most users. Similarly, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch also has a stepped feel, offering a mild typing experience with noticeable feedback. It has a moderate to firm actuation force, giving it a snappy and reactive feel. Both switches provide a tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, which enhances the typing sensation.

Based on the available information, the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Plum switch provides a unique combination of a moderate tactile bump and a neutral sound profile, making it stand out among other tactile switches. It offers a mild and stepped feel, providing a gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch is known for its high-pitched and satisfying click sound, with keystrokes that are light yet tactile. It also has a stepped feel, offering a mild typing experience with pronounced feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Conclusion

To wrap up, if you're looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique tactile experience, the Kailh Plum tactile switch would be a great choice. These switches feel hefty but have a more subtle tactile bump, making them stand out from other tactile switches. The sound profile of the Plum is described as neutral and enjoyable, making it suitable for various settings and user levels. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a satisfying and high-pitched click, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is the way to go. With a medium-light bottom out force, these switches offer a pronounced tactility without being overwhelming. The sound profile of the Purple Click is described as crunchy and resonant, providing an immersive auditory experience. Both switches fall under the "stepped" descriptor, meaning they offer a mild tactile sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch depends on your preferences for weight, tactility, and sound.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Plum Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

KTT Purple Click Clicky

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

Learn more