KTT Ash Gray vs. KTT Glimp
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the KTT Glimp switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Ash Gray and the KTT Glimp. The Ash Gray switch is known for its tactile response that combines a light touch with a crisp actuation, offering a delightful blend of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Glimp switch strikes a balance between a medium-light switch and a substantial typing experience, providing satisfying tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force. While the Ash Gray switch is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Glimp switch falls under categories such as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. These general descriptions provide a good starting point for deciding which switch may suit your 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
38g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the KTT Glimp, specifically the polycarbonate top housing, are identical. Both switches utilize polycarbonate due to its stiffness, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and visual effects when using the Ash Gray and Glimp switches.
However, the differences between the two switches lie in their nylon bottom housing. The Ash Gray features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Glimp also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, providing similar characteristics of a deeper and fuller sound. The absorptive properties of nylon contribute to a more muted and smooth typing experience.
When considering the overall impact on sound and feel, the Ash Gray's bottom housing will have a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing will have a more pronounced effect on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users may notice slight differences in the overall typing experience between the Ash Gray and Glimp switches, with the Ash Gray potentially offering a more well-rounded and softer sound when bottoming out keys.
In summary, the KTT Ash Gray and the KTT Glimp share the same polycarbonate top housing, contributing to a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile, as well as a visually appealing design with RGB lighting. Their differences lie in the nylon bottom housing, with the Ash Gray providing a deeper and fuller sound due to the absorptive properties of nylon. The Glimp, although also utilizing a nylon bottom housing, offers a more muted and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, the Ash Gray switch is slightly lighter than the Glimp switch, as it has an actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Glimp's 43 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 53 grams, indicating a medium-light pressure required for fully pressing down the keys.
The actuation force of a switch determines the force needed to trigger a keystroke, and in this regard, the Ash Gray switch requires a lighter touch compared to the Glimp switch. This lighter actuation force can be beneficial for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience or need to type for extended periods, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Glimp switch provides a slightly heavier push feel, which some users may find more satisfying and substantial for their typing needs.
When it comes to bottoming out, or fully pressing down the keys, both the Ash Gray and Glimp switches have the same force requirement of 53 grams. This means that regardless of which switch is chosen, users can expect a consistent level of resistance when fully pressing down keys, ensuring a stable and reliable typing experience.
Overall, while the Ash Gray tactile switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Glimp linear switch, they both have the same bottom out force. This means that users can achieve similar results in terms of the pressure required for bottoming out with either switch. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference, whether one prefers a lighter touch for longer typing periods or a slightly heavier push for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the KTT Glimp linear switch's travel distance of 4 mm. The Ash Gray's shorter travel distance is ideal for gamers who prioritize faster response times, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt, and prefer a switch with a longer travel distance like the Glimp. The Glimp's 4 mm travel distance offers a more hearty depth to the key press, providing a satisfying tactile experience for those who enjoy a bit more feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for either a shorter and more responsive travel distance, or a longer and more tactile one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
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 Ash Gray switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, meaning it produces a moderate sound when pressed. This makes it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Glimp switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound. This sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch also depends on other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, but the Glimp switch offers a more distinctive and percussive sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch is praised for its easy-to-press characteristic, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Ash Gray switch provides a responsive and low-impact typing feel. On the other hand, the Glimp switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This sensation is achieved through lubricant application in the switch or specific materials used. Typing on the Glimp switch feels like gliding your fingers across the keys, with each keystroke effortlessly melding into the next. Both switches offer a mild typing experience, but the Glimp switch provides a more luxurious and smooth feel.
Taking all the available information into account, the Ash Gray switch is best known for its tactile response, light touch, and crisp actuation. Its tactile feedback is substantial yet unobtrusive, striking a balance between being noticeable without being overwhelming. The switch's sound profile is neutral, providing a moderate auditory experience suitable for various uses. The Ash Gray switch offers an easy-to-press feel, with minimal resistance and low-impact typing. On the other hand, the Glimp switch offers a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. Its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force contribute to a satisfying and responsive typing feel. The Glimp switch has a clacky sound profile, adding a crisp and bright sound to your typing sessions. Its creamy feel provides a smooth and luxurious typing experience. Overall, both switches offer their own unique characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for tactile feedback, sound, and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a blend of tactile feedback without being overwhelming, the KTT Ash Gray switch would be a great choice for you. With its medium-light bottom out force and easy-to-press feel, it provides a responsive and low-impact typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, it has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that strikes the perfect balance between typing experience and resistance, the KTT Glimp switch would be an ideal option. With its medium-light bottom out force and mild feel, it offers a satisfying and responsive typing experience. It has a clacky sound profile, which adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions.
Ultimately, the choice between the Ash Gray and Glimp switches comes down to personal preference. If you value a lighter, unobtrusive tactile feedback with a neutral sound profile, the Ash Gray switch is for you. If you enjoy a slightly more pronounced typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Glimp switch is a great fit. Both switches provide a comfortable actuation force and offer a pleasant typing feel, making them suitable for most intents and purposes.
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