KTT Purple Click vs. Kailh Sage

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the KTT Purple Click and the Kailh Sage. The Purple Click is best known for its high-pitched and satisfying click, providing a perfect balance between a light keystroke and pronounced tactility. It is categorized as "Crunchy," "Invigorating," "Resonant," and "Stepped." On the other hand, the Sage switch offers a distinct clicky typing experience with a refreshingly sharp clickiness. The weight of the Sage switch is heavier, providing a different feel while typing. It is categorized as "Invigorating," "Sharp," and "Crunchy." Both switches have their unique characteristics and advantages. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.

By the numbers

KTT Purple Click Clicky

Kailh Sage Clicky

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

$6.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Purple Click and the Kailh Sage, specifically their polycarbonate top housings, share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a similar sound profile characterized by sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper tones. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the effective use of RGB lighting, making it a desirable feature for those interested in customizable keyboard aesthetics.

In terms of the bottom housings, both the Purple Click and the Sage incorporate nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is renowned for its ability to generate a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its relatively softer composition absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Thus, users can expect a more satisfying typing experience with both switches, thanks to the bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel.

Despite these similarities, it is important to note that the differences in housing materials between the top and bottom housings of each switch lead to distinct characteristics. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing, made from nylon in both cases, will be predominant, influencing the sound and feel at the point of bottoming out. Conversely, the impact on the sound when releasing a key will be more influenced by the properties of the polycarbonate top housing. Therefore, although the switches utilize different materials for their respective top and bottom housings, the overall typing experience may be quite similar, with nuanced variations depending on the specific action performed on the keyboard.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, there are some notable differences. The Purple Click has an actuation force of 40 grams, providing a medium-light touch, while the Sage's actuation force is unavailable. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Purple Click requires 55 grams, which is still relatively light. In contrast, the Sage has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy.

Considering weight is essential for various reasons. Some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force as it allows them to type for more extended periods, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience often opt for switches with heavier forces, as it provides a stronger push feel.

In this case, the Purple Click provides a lighter actuation and bottom out force, while the Sage offers a heavier bottom out force. If a user desires a similar result to the Purple Click's medium-light touch, they may consider selecting the Sage switch and being mindful not to bottom out forcefully, as it would require more force to do so.

Overall, these switches offer different weight profiles, catering to individual preferences for typing experiences.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is evident that the Purple Click has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sage has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Generally, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, providing a satisfactory depth for typing or gaming. However, the trend towards shorter travel distances has gained popularity, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. In this regard, the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Sage may be preferable. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, and for those who prefer a deeper and more pronounced keypress, the Purple Click with its 4 mm travel distance would be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and the specific requirements of the user.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Purple Click switch is characterized by a fairly high-pitched and satisfying click sound. It offers a light keystroke with a pronounced but not overwhelming tactility, striking a perfect balance. This creates an immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound profile. On the other hand, the Sage switch also provides a distinct clicky typing experience with a crunchy sound, similar to stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. However, the sound profile of the Sage is not described as resonant like the Purple Click. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, both the Purple Click and Sage switches are described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force. This results in a snappy, reactive feel that enhances the overall typing sensation. The Purple Click is also described as a stepped switch, which means it has a mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Sage switch is described as having a sharp tactile bump that is strong and crisp, delivering a high feedback intensity that can be distinctly felt with each keypress.

Taking all the available information into consideration, the Purple Click and Sage switches offer different but equally appealing characteristics. The Purple Click provides a higher-pitched and satisfying click sound, along with a balanced tactility and a stepped switch feel. On the other hand, the Sage switch offers a heavier weight and a refreshingly sharp clickiness, accompanied by an invigorating and sharp tactile feel. While the sound profile of the Sage is not described as resonant like the Purple Click, both switches can provide a crunchy sound similar to stepping on autumn leaves. Therefore, if you prefer a higher-pitched click and a stepped switch feel, the Purple Click would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a heavier weight and a sharp tactile bump, the Sage switch would be an excellent option. In either case, you can expect a clicky typing experience that is immersive and satisfying.

Conclusion

To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, consider your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter touch and a more balanced tactile experience, the Purple Click with its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams might be the better choice for you. It offers a high-pitched, satisfying click and a light keystroke with pronounced tactility. In terms of sound, the Purple Click provides a crunchy and resonant sound profile, which can create an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier keystroke and a sharper clickiness, the Sage with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams might be more suitable. The Sage offers a distinct clicky typing experience with a refreshing sharpness. In terms of sound, both switches have a crunchy sound profile. When it comes to feel, both switches provide an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback. However, the Purple Click is described as having a more stepped feel, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, while the Sage is described as having a sharper tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and feel.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Purple Click Clicky

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Sage Clicky

$6.25 per 10

Learn more