Bsun Akashi vs. KTT Glimp
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the KTT Glimp switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In comparing the Bsun Akashi and KTT Glimp mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches that offer unique features for different typing experiences. The Akashi is known for its UPE stem and distinctive POM top with a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a bright and crisp bottom-out sound coupled with deep acoustic richness. This switch is categorized as clacky, creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy to press, providing a novel and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Glimp switch strikes a balance between medium-light resistance and tactile feedback, offering a satisfying typing feel with a fairly clacky sound profile. Categorized as clacky, creamy, mild, and neutral, the Glimp switch provides a comfortable and responsive typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and KTT Glimp both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housing components, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Akashi's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Glimp's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent quality of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature.
Despite utilizing different materials for their top housing, both switches share similar qualities in their nylon bottom housing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Akashi and Glimp switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder tone. When it comes to typing on switches with nylon bottom housing, users can expect a consistent and satisfying sound experience that enhances the overall typing feel. Additionally, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel is emphasized, providing a comfortable typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Bsun Akashi and KTT Glimp switches plays a significant role in shaping their sound profiles. While the Akashi's POM top housing offers a unique and pleasing sound, the Glimp's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper tone. Both switches benefit from the nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether you prefer a more muted sound with the Akashi or a sharper sound with the Glimp, the housing materials in each switch are carefully selected to enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, it is clear that the Akashi is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Glimp. The Akashi has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. The Akashi offers a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke. On the other hand, the Glimp provides a slightly heavier feel, which may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing performance, with the main difference being the force required for each key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or slightly heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7mm, while the KTT Glimp linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Akashi has a shorter travel distance compared to the Glimp. The difference may seem minor, but it can affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers may prefer the Akashi for its slightly faster response time, while others may opt for the Glimp for a more substantial press. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who desire a more compact typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Akashi has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Akashi for $3.70.
The KTT Glimp has an MSRP of $3.84 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glimp for $3.45.
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, both the Bsun Akashi and KTT Glimp switches are described as clacky, producing sharp and snappy sounds when pressed. This creates a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience during typing sessions. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so keep that in mind.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience. The Akashi switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press, providing a luxurious and effortless keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Glimp switch is described as creamy and mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone for most users. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and responsive typing feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Akashi and KTT Glimp switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While they both produce a clacky sound profile, their tactile feedback and actuation force differ slightly, providing distinct typing experiences. The Akashi switch focuses on a hybrid design for a resonant typing experience, while the Glimp switch strikes a balance between substantial typing feedback and moderate resistance. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can offer satisfying results, ensuring an enjoyable and responsive typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a novel, resonant typing feel with each keystroke, then the Bsun Akashi switch with its unique sound profile and creamy, frictionless feel may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer bottom out force and a medium-light switch that strikes a balance between tactile feedback and actuation force, then the KTT Glimp switch with its satisfying and responsive typing feel may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire.