KTT Purple Click vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Click and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often comes down to personal preference, particularly between the tactile feedback of clicky switches like the KTT Purple Click and the smooth, uninterrupted action of linear switches such as the HMX Twilight. The KTT Purple Click, renowned for its high-pitched, satisfying click, provides a delightful auditory experience with light keystrokes that offer a pronounced yet balanced tactile response. This makes it an excellent choice for typists and gamers who enjoy the feedback and sound of each keystroke, creating that quintessential mechanical feel. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight presents a different appeal; with its extended 3.85mm travel distance and quieter operation, it caters to those who prefer a smoother, more linear typing experience without the distractions of clicky sounds. This switch is ideal for users who favor a more subdued input while still benefiting from the enjoyable clacky characteristics that HMX switches are known for. Each switch has its advantages depending on your typing style and preferences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.85 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
Nylon
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
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Purple Click and the HMX Twilight, notable distinctions arise primarily from the choice of materials for the top housing. The Purple Click utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances sound clarity and resonance. In contrast, the Twilight employs a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. This fundamental difference in material choice means that, while both switches might utilize nylon for the bottom housing, the top housing significantly influences the overall sound characteristic when the key is released.
Both switches feature nylon as the bottom housing material, which serves to produce a fuller and more resonant sound. Since nylon has a tendency to absorb sound rather than project it, the Purple Click and the Twilight offer a similar auditory experience at the bottom of each keystroke. This shared characteristic emphasizes the deeper and rounder sound profile that users can expect when they bottom out either switch. It highlights that, despite the differences in their top housing materials, the bottom housing's nylon contributes equally to sound dampening and tactile feedback, ensuring that both switches maintain a level of acoustic cohesion in terms of depth and fullness.
Ultimately, while the top housing of each switch—polycarbonate for the Purple Click and nylon for the Twilight—introduces different sonic qualities, the end results in terms of overall typing experience can be notably similar. Both housing designs allow enthusiasts to experience a range of sound profiles by leveraging the strengths of nylon in the bottom housing. Therefore, if one were to use these switches in a similar context, the distinct audio outputs would blend to provide a nuanced experience, resonating distinctly while still harnessing the deep and rich characteristics that the nylon material brings to the table.
Weight
Comparing the KTT Purple Click and HMX Twilight switches reveals some interesting differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The KTT 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 HMX Twilight has a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams, but a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, putting it in the light category. This means that while the Twilight requires a little more force to initiate a keystroke, it bottom out softer than the Purple Click. As a result, typists who favor a lighter overall experience may prefer the HMX Twilight for its lower bottom out force, whereas those who appreciate a more substantial push feel might gravitate towards the KTT Purple Click due to its heavier bottom out force. Overall, the Purple Click is the heavier option under bottom-out conditions, while the Twilight provides greater ease in bottoming out for those who prioritize comfort over firmness.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, we find that the Purple Click has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Twilight measures at 3.85 mm. This means the Purple Click provides a slightly longer travel distance, which some users might prefer for a more pronounced tactile feedback and a deeper feel during typing or gaming. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a snappier keystroke. Thus, if you prioritize depth and a traditional feel, the Purple Click is the better choice, while the Twilight suits those who enjoy a more responsive experience.
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 Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight 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 profile of the KTT Purple Click switch is notably distinct, characterized by a crunchy and resonant quality. Typing on this switch provides a satisfying auditory experience reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves, combining a high-pitched click that is both clean and sharp. This sound is a hallmark of clicky switches, offering a rewarding feedback loop for users who enjoy auditory cues while typing. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch offers a quieter experience due to its extended travel distance of 3.85mm. Although the sound produced by the Twilight is less pronounced, it retains the signature clacky characteristics of HMX switches to some extent, enhancing the overall typing experience without overwhelming the user.
When it comes to feel, the Purple Click excels with its invigorating and stepped design. Users will notice a pronounced feedback that feels snappy and reactive, providing an immersive typing sensation that makes every keystroke feel deliberate and satisfying. The moderate to firm actuation force balances the tactile feedback without becoming tiresome. In contrast, the HMX Twilight switch is linear, and its feel characteristics remain unknown. However, linear switches are generally smooth with no tactile bump, offering a different experience from the pronounced feedback of the Purple Click.
In summary, the KTT Purple Click switch shines with its high-pitched, crunchy sound and invigorating, stepped feel, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy tactile feedback and auditory confirmation while typing. The HMX Twilight switch, while slightly quieter, offers an extended travel distance that may appeal to users who prefer a linear typing experience. Users may experience different qualities between the switches, but both cater to distinct user preferences; ultimately, personal choice will dictate the best switch depending on whether one favors auditory and tactile engagement or a smoother, quieter alternative.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the KTT Purple Click and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you’re someone who enjoys the tactile feedback and satisfying auditory experience of a clicky switch, the Purple Click is likely the way to go. Its medium-light actuation force of 55 grams ensures a comfortable yet engaging typing experience, with the invigorating feel and resonant crunch of each keystroke elevating your work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience that allows for swift successive keystrokes, the HMX Twilight, with its lighter 50-gram actuation force and extended travel distance, is an excellent option. Its linear nature provides a consistent keypress feel without the distractions of clicks, making it ideal for lengthy typing or gaming marathons where speed is essential. Ultimately, consider how you prioritize sound, feedback, and actuation force when making your choice, and you’ll find the switch that perfectly suits your needs.
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