KTT Purple Click vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Click and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, preferences often hinge on feel and sound, making the KTT Purple Click and HMX Sunset Gleam two intriguing options that cater to different typing styles. The Purple Click, characterized by its high-pitched and satisfying click, offers a delightful typing experience with its light keystrokes combined with pronounced tactility, appealing to those who enjoy auditory feedback and a lively typing rhythm. This switch is perfect for typists seeking an invigorating and resonant feel. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, a linear switch famed for its smooth operation, provides a different tactile experience with a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack, ideal for gamers and enthusiasts who prefer unbroken keystrokes free from interruptions. While the Purple Click excites with its crunchy sound and tactile feedback, the Sunset Gleam excels in creating a seamless typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 the HMX Sunset Gleam both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a remarkably similar acoustic experience. The polycarbonate's rigidity contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, enhancing the clarity and resonance of each keystroke. This material’s translucency also makes it an excellent choice for users interested in RGB lighting, as it allows the illumination to shine through effectively. Therefore, both switches will deliver consistent sound clarity and visual appeal when integrated with colorful backlighting, making them ideal for gamers and typists who appreciate both aesthetics and performance.
In contrast, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, imparting a deeper and fuller sound profile that distinguishes the overall typing experience from that of the top housing. The nylon’s softer composition absorbs more sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate, resulting in a rounder and more muted bottom-out sound. This complement of materials between the two switches plays a significant role in how the switches feel during use: while both employ the same materials, the differing acoustic qualities will be noticed in the bottom-out sound and the tactile feedback.
Given that both the Purple Click and Sunset Gleam consist of identical materials in their top and bottom housings, they will likely yield comparable typing experiences despite the potential for subtle variances in manufacturing and personal perception. Users will benefit from a consistent clear sound profile when pressing down on the keys, combined with a deeper resonance when releasing them. Ultimately, the similarities in the choice of polycarbonate and nylon allow for a harmonious blend of auditory feedback and tactile sensation in both switches, making them appealing choices for enthusiasts seeking a reliable and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, distinct differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Purple Click has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light option. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam features a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams but a considerably lighter bottom out force of 48 grams. This makes the Sunset Gleam lighter overall in terms of bottom out pressure, despite its greater actuation force. While the Purple Click provides a more substantial typing experience with its higher bottom out force, the Sunset Gleam offers a softer landing that may be preferred for extended typing or gaming sessions. Thus, users looking for a lighter feel may gravitate towards the Sunset Gleam, while those who enjoy a firmer feedback might opt for the Purple Click.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, the KTT Purple Click features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Sunset Gleam offers a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This 0.5 mm difference signifies that the Purple Click will provide a more pronounced feedback with each keystroke, appealing to those who enjoy a deeper tactile experience. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam, with its shorter travel distance, caters to users who prefer a more responsive feel, making it particularly suitable for gamers seeking quicker actuation. Ultimately, if you savor the additional depth and feedback that comes with a longer travel distance, the KTT Purple Click is the better choice. Conversely, for those who prioritize speed and reactiveness, the HMX Sunset Gleam's shorter distance is advantageous.
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 Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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 profile of the KTT Purple Click switch is characterized by its high-pitched, crunchy click, which resonates with a clean and sharp tone. This auditory experience is invigorating, akin to the experience of stepping on fresh autumn leaves, making it distinctly satisfying for users who appreciate acoustic feedback while typing. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam is described as having a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack, thanks in part to its excellent factory lube. While the Sunset Gleam lacks a detailed sound profile, its intention is to create a more muted auditory experience that focuses on the clack rather than an overtly sharp click. Users can expect a quieter typing experience compared to the pronounced sound of the Purple Click.
Regarding the tactile feel, the Purple Click switch offers a pronounced and invigorating feedback, with a moderate to firm actuation force that results in a snappy and reactive typing sensation. Its stepped tactile design creates a unique typing experience, allowing users to feel distinct stages during the keystroke, which can make typing feel more engaging. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam is a linear switch and does not provide detailed information on its feel. Generally, linear switches lack tactile feedback, delivering a smooth keystroke without any bumps or steps, creating a different typing experience that some users may prefer for its uninterrupted gliding action.
In summary, the KTT Purple Click switch is ideal for those who value pronounced sound and tactile feedback, making it suitable for an engaging and immersive typing experience. The high-pitched click and invigorating feel cater to enthusiasts who enjoy the nuances of a clicky switch. Conversely, the HMX Sunset Gleam, while not extensively described, seems to offer a smoother and subtler experience, appealing to users who prefer a quieter typing environment without the distinct tactile feedback inherent to clicky switches. Ultimately, both switches serve different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community, and the choice between them will significantly depend on the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the type of experience you seek. If you appreciate a tactile and engaging typing experience with a satisfying, high-pitched click, the KTT Purple Click would be your go-to choice. Its medium-light actuation force combined with its pronounced feedback offers an invigorating sensation that many typists find delightful, particularly if you enjoy audible cues in your keystrokes. Conversely, if you prefer a smoother and quieter experience while typing, the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch may be more suitable for you. With its lighter actuation force and subtle top-out sound, it provides a refined and fluid keystroke that is perfect for long typing sessions or gaming where speed is crucial. In essence, choose the Purple Click for a lively, clicky experience that keeps you energized, and opt for the Sunset Gleam for an elegant, seamless feel that allows you to glide over your keyboard effortlessly.
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