Dareu Aqua vs. KTT Glimp
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the KTT Glimp switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Aqua and KTT Glimp are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The Aqua boasts a super light 37g actuation force, providing a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Glimp features a medium-light switch with tactile feedback and a comfortable actuation force, offering a satisfying typing experience with a fairly clacky sound profile. While the Aqua excels in being easy-to-press and feathery, the Glimp stands out for its creamy and mild characteristics. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
37g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the KTT Glimp both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of the plastic. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on either of these switches. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while they share the same material for their top housings, the overall sound profile of the switches may still vary based on other factors.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Dareu Aqua and the KTT Glimp utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to harder plastics. Despite having different top housings, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches contributes to their overall sound profile, creating a unique typing experience for each.
While both switches feature similar materials for their top and bottom housings, the impact of each material varies in terms of the sound profile when typing. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This highlights how the combination of different housing materials in a switch can influence the overall typing experience and sound profile, even if they share similarities in some respects.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, it is evident that the Aqua is lighter in terms of actuation force at 37 grams, while the Glimp is heavier at 43 grams. The bottom out force for the Aqua is unavailable, whereas the Glimp has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which falls in the medium-light category. Both switches provide a different typing experience based on their force requirements. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Aqua for extended typing sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier push feel of the Glimp for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the key travel a distance of 4mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches. The Dareu Aqua and KTT Glimp linear switches offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience with their identical travel distances, making them both suitable choices for those who prefer a shorter key travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Aqua has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua for $3.76.
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
The Dareu Aqua linear switch is known for its distinctive sound profile, featuring a chirpy and clacky sound that sets it apart from other switches. This unique acoustic signature adds a playful element to typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Glimp linear switch offers a more moderate sound profile, with a clacky sound that still provides an enjoyable auditory experience. Both switches provide a satisfying typing sound, but the Aqua switch leans towards a lighter and more distinctive sound compared to the Glimp switch.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is lauded for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, enhancing the overall typing experience. Conversely, the KTT Glimp linear switch is described as creamy and mild, providing a smooth and gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. While the Aqua switch emphasizes a light and low-impact typing feel, the Glimp switch offers a smoother and easy typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch stands out for its unique chirpy and clacky sound profile coupled with an easy-to-press and feathery typing feel. On the other hand, the KTT Glimp linear switch offers a moderate clacky sound and a creamy, mild typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the distinctive lightness of the Aqua switch or the smoothness of the Glimp switch to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying sound and feel that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, consider the specific characteristics that align with your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Dareu Aqua switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light actuation force with tactile feedback and a satisfying typing experience, the KTT Glimp switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you seek. So, whether you lean towards the distinctive lightness of Aqua or the balanced feel of Glimp, both switches offer their own set of advantages for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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