Gateron Aliaz vs. KTT Glimp
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the KTT Glimp switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, to the KTT Glimp, a linear switch, it is evident that each keyboard switch offers unique characteristics suited for different preferences. The Aliaz switch stands out for its quiet design, making it ideal for office environments where noise can be a concern. With a medium-heavy weight, the Aliaz switch provides a satisfyingly substantial feel to each keystroke, perfect for those who enjoy a pronounced typing feedback. On the other hand, the Glimp switch strikes a balance with its medium-light feel, offering tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force for a responsive typing experience. Its fairly clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to typing sessions. 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
60g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the KTT Glimp both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Aliaz's bottom housing also made of polycarbonate while the Glimp's bottom housing is made of nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and ability to absorb more sound. This means that when typing on the Glimp, the bottom housing will have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel compared to the Aliaz.
Despite both switches featuring polycarbonate top housings, the difference in bottom housing material between the Gateron Aliaz and the KTT Glimp results in varying sound profiles. While the Aliaz's bottom housing also made of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, the Glimp's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. This means that the typing experience on the two switches will have distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials offers users the opportunity to experience different sound profiles depending on the switch they choose.
In terms of functionality, the split between the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the KTT Glimp indicates that the qualities of each material will have an impact on different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing's material will influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. This division in housing materials allows users to experience a variety of sound profiles and tactile feedback depending on the switch they choose, catering to different preferences in typing feel and sound.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Aliaz has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Glimp has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option. The Aliaz would be preferred by those who prefer a stronger push feel for typing, while the Glimp would be favored by those looking for a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Both switches offer a similar outcome in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a significant role in determining the typing experience and comfort level for users.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get consistent feedback and feel when typing or gaming with either switch. Overall, both the Gateron Aliaz and the KTT Glimp offer a comfortable typing experience with a moderate travel distance that strikes a balance between responsiveness and cushioning.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
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, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is best described as muted, providing a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for office settings where noise levels need to be kept at a minimum. On the other hand, the KTT Glimp linear switch offers a more clacky sound profile, adding a crisp and bright auditory element to your typing sessions. The Glimp switch also has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer a muted typing experience with the Aliaz or a more clacky sound with the Glimp.
In terms of feel, the Aliaz switch offers a silky and polished typing experience, known for its exceptionally smooth key presses and refined finish. On the other hand, the Glimp switch provides a creamy and mild typing sensation, with a smooth and buttery feel that is gentle on the fingers. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Aliaz is tailored towards those who appreciate a heavier tactile feedback, while the Glimp appeals to users seeking a lighter and smoother actuation. Ultimately, your preference will depend on whether you prefer a silky and polished feel with the Aliaz or a creamy and mild sensation with the Glimp.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz is ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience with a heavier tactile feedback, while the Glimp appeals to users seeking a clacky sound profile and a smoother actuation. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, so regardless of your choice, you can expect similar results in terms of overall quality and performance. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to your personal preferences in sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, consider your preferences and environment. If you value a heavier typing experience and need a quieter switch for an office setting, the Aliaz switches would be a suitable choice with their substantial feel and muted sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light actuation force with a more clacky sound profile and enjoy a smooth and buttery typing experience, the Glimp switches could be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and where you will be using the keyboard the most.
Mentioned in this article
