Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. KTT Glimp
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Glimp switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Glimp, both linear switches. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, offering a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Glimp is known for striking a balance between a substantial typing experience and comfortable actuation force, providing tactile feedback and a satisfying typing feel with a clacky sound profile. While the Crystal Pro switch may appeal to those looking for a bouncy and polished typing experience, the Glimp switch could be the perfect choice for individuals seeking a creamy feel with a mild resistance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preferences and typing needs, so it's essential to delve deeper into the specific characteristics of each switch before making a final choice.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Glimp both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, which leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetics of the switches. However, the bottom housing material differs between the two switches, with the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing maintaining the same qualities as the top housing, while the Glimp's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound.
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro's top housing is paired with a matching polycarbonate bottom housing. This ensures a consistent sound profile throughout the switch, with the stiffer polycarbonate material contributing to a crisper sound both when pressing down and releasing a key. On the other hand, the KTT Glimp's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a unique sound experience, with the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key, while the softer nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound during typing.
Overall, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the KTT Glimp demonstrate how the choice of materials can significantly impact the sound profile of a switch. The stiffer polycarbonate of the V3 Crystal Pro results in a sharper and clearer sound, while the softer nylon of the Glimp produces a deeper and fuller sound. Depending on personal preferences for typing sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to achieve their desired typing experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch both fall within the medium weight category, with the V3 Crystal Pro being slightly heavier. The V3 Crystal Pro requires an actuation force of 48 grams, while the Glimp only needs 43 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro again is heavier at 60 grams compared to the Glimp's 53 grams. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, with the V3 Crystal Pro offering a more substantial feel due to the higher force required, while the Glimp provides a lighter touch that may be more suitable for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is slightly shorter than the KTT Glimp linear switch's travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Crystal Pro offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the Glimp switch provides a slightly deeper key press feel, which may be more comfortable for those who prefer a more substantial key travel. Both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their travel distances, with the V3 Crystal Pro being the shorter option and the KTT Glimp being the longer option in this comparison.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch stands out for its chirpy sound profile, providing a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. This switch offers a bright and lively typing experience, making each keystroke noticeable and satisfying. On the other hand, the KTT Glimp linear switch is known for its clacky sound, adding a sharp and percussive element to your typing sessions. With a moderate actuation force requirement and a fairly clacky sound profile, the Glimp switch offers a responsive and enjoyable typing feel.
In terms of feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like sensation that enhances the typing experience. Additionally, the polished finish of this switch results in a smooth and refined feel, reducing friction and allowing for effortless key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Glimp switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. With a mild typing experience, the Glimp switch strikes a balance between gentle feedback and approachable sound profile.
Overall, while the V3 Crystal Pro and KTT Glimp linear switches offer different sound and feel characteristics, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can expect distinct qualities from each switch that cater to different tastes in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that ensures a enjoyable and responsive performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force, a bright and chirpy sound profile, and a silky smooth typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a clacky and neutral sound profile, and a creamy and mild typing experience, the Glimp switch could be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should align with what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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