KTT Purple Click vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Click and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and usage style. On one hand, the KTT Purple Click switch is celebrated for its high-pitched, satisfying click and lightweight keystrokes that deliver a pronounced tactile feedback, creating an invigorating typing experience. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy auditory feedback and a pronounced feel while typing, making it perfect for typists and gamers who thrive on responsiveness. On the other hand, the HMX SU offers a different tactile journey with its linear design—the absence of any tactile bump means smooth keystrokes from top to bottom, and its deep sound profile provides a subtle acoustic experience that allows for quiet, focused typing or gaming. For those who prioritize a seamless, uninterrupted typing flow, the HMX SU may be the better choice. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Purple Click and HMX SU switches showcase two distinct approaches to housing materials, particularly in their top materials. The Purple Click utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and ability to produce a sharper, crisper sound profile. This characteristic makes polycarbonate ideal for enhancing audio clarity, especially with RGB lighting, as its translucency aids in light diffusion. In contrast, the HMX SU opts for a nylon top housing, which absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper, rounder sound profile. This contrast in materials demonstrates a fundamental difference in acoustic experience: while the Purple Click offers a more pronounced and intricate sound, the HMX SU emphasizes warmth and depth.
However, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, which is made of nylon. This uniformity means that the tendency for nylon to absorb sound results in a fuller audio experience for both switches when the key is bottomed out. Given that both contain nylon in the bottom housing, users of either switch can expect a deeper tonal quality during typing. This shared characteristic ensures that despite the varying sound profiles produced by the different top materials, both switches will offer a consistently muted and round sound at the key's lowest point, enriching the typing experience for users.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate in the Purple Click's top housing and nylon in both switches' bottom housings indicates a deliberate choice of sound engineering. The resulting effect is a blend of clarity and warmth: users can experience the sharpness typical of polycarbonate when releasing keys with the Purple Click while enjoying the deeper tonal qualities delivered by the nylon counterpart. On the other hand, the HMX SU balances a warm typing experience from its universally softer nylon materials. Thus, the choice between these switches may hinge on a preference for the assertive sound profile of polycarbonate versus the comforting depth of nylon, both of which create engaging typing experiences grounded in their unique material compositions.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Purple Click clicky switch to the HMX SU linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different preferences in typing feel. The Purple Click requires an actuation force of 40 grams and has a bottom out force of 55 grams, classified as medium-light. In contrast, the HMX SU switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, but a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while the SU switch requires a bit more effort to register a keystroke, it feels less forceful when pressed all the way down compared to the Purple Click. As a result, users who prefer a more substantial typing experience might gravitate towards the Purple Click, while those seeking a lighter option with smoother bottoming out might opt for the HMX SU. Ultimately, both of these switches provide unique tactile feedback and feel, depending on individual preferences for typing and gaming sessions.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the HMX SU linear switch, there is a clear distinction. The KTT Purple Click features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX SU has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Purple Click provides a more pronounced key press, appealing to users who appreciate a deeper typing experience, which many find to be more satisfying and robust. In contrast, the HMX SU, with its shorter travel distance, may cater to those who seek quicker response times, such as gamers who prioritize speed and efficiency in their input. Therefore, if you prefer a more substantial feel when pressing keys, the KTT Purple Click would be the ideal choice, while the HMX SU would be preferred for a more rapid and responsive keystroke.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU 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
The sound profiles of the KTT Purple Click and the HMX SU linear switch are distinctly different, catering to varying preferences in auditory feedback. The Purple Click boasts a high-pitched, crunchy sound that is both resonant and satisfying, reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. Its pronounced click adds an element of excitement to each keystroke, creating an engaging acoustic environment that many typists find appealing. On the other hand, the SU's sound profile remains relatively subtle and deep, characteristic of linear switches that prioritize quiet operation over auditory feedback. While the SU is designed for minimal sound distraction, the Purple Click offers a more lively and spirited auditory experience that some users crave for an interactive typing session.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Purple Click stands out with its invigorating feedback. Users will encounter a pronounced tactile bump that provides both excellent actuation force and a snappy response, giving rise to a dynamic typing sensation. The stepped nature of the switch allows for an interesting tactile play, where users can feel distinct stages throughout the keystroke. In contrast, the feel of the HMX SU linear switch remains unknown, but linear switches typically offer a smooth keypress without tactile feedback or distinct stages, making them ideal for those who prefer a fluid typing experience without any interruptions in the key travel.
In conclusion, choosing between the KTT Purple Click and the HMX SU boils down to personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a loud, clicky switch with invigorating feedback and pronounced tactile response, the Purple Click will likely satisfy your needs. Conversely, if a quieter, smoother experience is more your preference, the HMX SU linear switch would be a suitable alternative. Overall, while one emphasizes sound and tactile feedback, the other provides a more subtle approach, ensuring that each type of user can find a mechanical keyboard switch that fits their requirements perfectly.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you're someone who enjoys an engaging typing experience with distinct auditory feedback, the Purple Click's light keystrokes and invigorating clicky sound will likely enhance your enjoyment as you type. Its moderate bottom-out force of 55 grams strikes a good balance between ease of use and tactile satisfaction, making it an excellent option for both typists and gamers looking for a lively, responsive feel. In contrast, if you prefer a smooth, quieter typing experience with minimal resistance, the HMX SU linear switch may be the better choice. With its light bottom-out force of 50 grams, the SU provides a seamless and unobtrusive keystroke, allowing for rapid input without the distraction of clicks. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style and the kind of feedback you find most satisfying; whether you lean toward a spirited clicky feel or a subdued, fluid touch, both switches offer unique benefits suited to different preferences.
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