KTT Darling vs. KTT Glimp
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the KTT Glimp switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Darling and the KTT Glimp both offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Darling, a linear switch, stands out for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, accompanied by a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. Its high-pitched and resonant sound upon bottoming out provides a blend of tactile and auditory feedback that many users appreciate. On the other hand, the Glimp, also a linear switch, strikes a balance between resistance and typing comfort with its medium-light feel. It offers tactile feedback and a comfortable actuation force, along with a fairly clacky sound profile for an enjoyable auditory experience. While the Darling is known for its bouncy and clacky feel, the Glimp is characterized by its creamy and mild attributes. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and typing habits; 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
45g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Darling and the KTT Glimp feature polycarbonate top housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housing materials of both switches leads to a more clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful if RGB lighting is to be utilized. This means that both switches will provide a similar auditory experience, particularly in terms of sound quality and response when typing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings of the two switches, there is a difference in material. The Darling's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Glimp's nylon bottom housing provides a similar acoustic experience, creating a fuller and rounder sound due to the properties of nylon. This difference in bottom housing material may contribute to a slight variation in the typing experience between the two switches.
In terms of overall typing experience, the qualities of each housing material in the Darling and Glimp are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing will be more noticeable during bottom-out sound and key feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This means that despite some differences in material, both the KTT Darling and the KTT Glimp offer a similar typing experience that is influenced by the combination of their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, we can see that both switches fall into the medium-light category. The Darling has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that the Glimp requires a slightly lighter touch to actuate compared to the Darling, but both switches will feel the same when fully pressed down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Glimp may be the better option, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may lean towards the Darling. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Darling linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the KTT Glimp linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Darling switch provides a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Glimp switch. The 0.5 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the keys. Gamers who prioritize quick response times may lean towards the Darling switch, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Glimp switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Darling linear switch offers a high-pitched, resonant, and clacky typing experience that delivers a sharp and crisp sound upon pressing each key. This creates an engaging auditory feedback that complements the tactile sensation of the switch. On the other hand, the KTT Glimp linear switch provides a clacky and neutral sound profile that is suitable for most users, offering a moderate actuation force requirement without being overwhelming in terms of sound. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Darling leaning towards a more resonant and high-pitched sound, while the Glimp provides a more neutral and moderate sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is characterized by its bouncy typing sensation, providing a springy responsiveness that adds a lively feel to each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Glimp linear switch is described as creamy and mild, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a gentle touch that appeals to a wider range of users. While the Darling excels in providing a bouncy and substantial feel, the Glimp focuses on offering a creamy and mild typing experience that prioritizes smoothness and ease of use. Both switches have unique feel characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Darling leaning towards a bouncy and springy feel, while the Glimp offers a creamy and mild sensation.
In conclusion, the KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch each offer their own unique strengths in terms of sound and feel. The Darling excels in providing a high-pitched and resonant sound profile with a bouncy typing sensation, while the Glimp offers a more neutral and clacky sound with a creamy and mild feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, you can choose between the two switches to achieve a satisfying and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide quality performance and it is important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, consider your preferences for typing sensation and sound profile. If you prefer a chewy and substantial typing feel with pronounced bounciness and a high-pitched, resonant sound, the Darling switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with tactile feedback, a comfortable actuation force, and a clacky sound profile, the Glimp switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are seeking.
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