KTT Purple Click vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Click and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to the distinct feel and sound profile each switch offers, which can greatly enhance your typing experience. The KTT Purple Click, affectionately dubbed Purple Sauce, is a clicky switch known for its satisfying high-pitched sound and tactile feedback that strikes a delicate balance between pronounced and not overly intense. This makes it ideal for typists who enjoy auditory cues while still appreciating a light keystroke. On the other hand, the Huano Strawberry Latte is a linear switch that stands out for its super smooth keystroke, crafted with the latest mold technology from Huano, offering a balanced sound profile that avoids being too quiet or overly resonant. Ideal for gamers or those who prefer a seamless typing experience without tactile interruptions, the Strawberry Latte provides effortless actuation and swift key presses. With these general insights in mind, 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
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Purple Click and the Huano Strawberry Latte both utilize distinct top housing materials that contribute to their overall acoustic properties. The Purple Click features a polycarbonate top housing, which is well-known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the switch's clarity and resonance, making it particularly ideal for setups that incorporate RGB lighting, given its translucency. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte employs a POK (polyketone) top housing that is recognized for its smoothness and exceptional durability. While it may not achieve the same crispness as polycarbonate, the POK material still offers a satisfying tactile experience and stands out in terms of wear resistance and shock absorption. Thus, although both switches have different top housing materials, they excel in creating engaging sound dynamics.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon, a classic choice that delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Since nylon is a softer plastic, it effectively absorbs sound, which results in a comparatively duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. In this instance, the two switches are aligned in their use of nylon for their bottom housings, ensuring that users can expect similar aural characteristics when bottoming out. The duplication of nylon in the bottom housing allows both the Purple Click and Strawberry Latte to preserve that warm depth in sound, compensating for the differences observed in the top section.
Ultimately, the combination of differing materials for the top housings and similar materials for the bottom housings in the KTT Purple Click and Huano Strawberry Latte results in a unique sound profile for each switch, while both benefit from a consistent foundational acoustic quality due to their shared nylon bottom. Those looking for more vibrant sound through the top will prefer the Purple Click's polycarbonate topping, while others seeking smoothness and durability might gravitate towards the Strawberry Latte's POK material. Regardless, the use of nylon in the bottom allows for a balanced experience, making both switches adept at catering to various user preferences based on how they articulate sound with their individual designs.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces can be observed. The Purple Click features an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte requires a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and has a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a light switch overall. This means that typists who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Strawberry Latte more suitable for extended use, while those who appreciate a stronger feel might favor the Purple Click. Ultimately, the actuation force of the Purple Click is heavier than that of the Strawberry Latte, making it ideal for users seeking a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, the KTT Purple Click features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Huano Strawberry Latte has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Purple Click switch provides a more pronounced feedback with its longer travel distance, which some users might find offers a satisfying depth during use. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte's shorter distance is likely to appeal to gamers or those who favor quick response times, resulting in a more immediate actuation. Ultimately, if you lean towards a more responsive feel, the Strawberry Latte may be the better choice, while the Purple Click would be preferable for those who appreciate a deeper, more substantial key press.
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 Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Purple Click switch delivers a high-pitched and satisfying click, reminiscent of crunching leaves underfoot, which adds a unique auditory charm to the typing experience. This sound is not just loud, but rather resonant and clean, contributing to a lively and immersive atmosphere while typing. The clicking mechanism ensures that each keystroke is punctuated with a crisp sound, making it an auditory delight for those who appreciate clicky switches. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte has a balanced sound profile that is neither too quiet nor overly loud, but specific descriptors for its sound qualities are not available. However, its smooth operation means that while it might lack the pronounced click of the Purple Click, it still provides a pleasant acoustic experience without unwanted harshness.
In terms of feel, the Purple Click switch offers an invigorating typing experience characterized by its pronounced feedback. With a moderate to firm actuation force, it feels snappy and reactive, ensuring that typists are both engaged and informed with each stroke. Additionally, the stepped tactile feedback provides a sense of a two-stage keystroke, enhancing the overall typing sensation without being overwhelming. Unfortunately, the feel characteristics of the Huano Strawberry Latte are unknown; however, its reputation for smoothness suggests a more fluid typing experience that may appeal to those who prefer a linear feel without the tactile bump of a clicky switch.
In summary, while the KTT Purple Click and Huano Strawberry Latte switches cater to different preferences—one focusing on an auditory and tactile feedback experience, and the other emphasizing a smooth and balanced typing experience—individual results may vary based on personal taste and the overall keyboard setup. If you enjoy a clicky and invigorating feel, the Purple Click is likely the ideal choice, whereas the Strawberry Latte is well-suited for those seeking a seamless and understated action. Each switch has its merits, and ultimately, the best pick depends on what you prioritize in your typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard. If you enjoy a tactile feedback and the satisfying auditory experience that comes with it, the Purple Click is a fantastic choice. Its distinctive, crunchy sound and invigorating feel make it ideal for those who appreciate the joy of each keystroke, especially for typing tasks that require both engagement and clarity. This switch is particularly well-suited for writing, gaming, or any activity where you thrive on that auditory and tactile interaction. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Huano Strawberry Latte is a better option for you. With its lighter actuation force and silky smooth keystrokes, it is great for extended typing sessions, fast-paced gaming, or situations where noise might be a concern. In essence, both switches have their unique merits and choosing between them depends on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and sound or smoothness and a lighter touch.
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