KTT Glimp vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the KTT Glimp and the TTC Gold Red Pro, both of which are linear switches. The Glimp switch is known for its medium-light feel, providing just the right amount of tactile feedback and actuation force for a satisfying typing experience. Its clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro offers a seamless typing experience with its ease of press and neutral sound signature, making it adaptable to various settings and preferences. While the Glimp switch may be preferred for those looking for a balance between typing experience and resistance, the Gold Red Pro shines in its versatility and compatibility across different environments. 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
43g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Glimp and TTC Gold Red Pro share similar top housing materials, as both utilize polycarbonate for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. This means that users can expect a similar sound profile from both switches when it comes to the top housing material.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches also feature nylon, a material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. With both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. This material choice allows for a more comfortable typing experience and a unique sound profile that sets these switches apart from others on the market.
While the top and bottom housings of the KTT Glimp and TTC Gold Red Pro differ in material, with polycarbonate and nylon respectively, the effect is split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material impacts the sound when releasing a key. This means that users can enjoy a dynamic typing experience with a balance of sharpness and depth in sound, thanks to the combination of materials used in these switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, one can see that both switches have an actuation force of 43 grams. However, the Glimp has a bottom out force of 53 grams, indicating a slightly heavier feel compared to the Gold Red Pro, whose bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Glimp a bit on the lighter side in terms of typing experience, while the Gold Red Pro's weight remains a mystery. The actuation force, being the same, would yield similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. Overall, the Glimp offers a medium-light feel with a defined bottom out force, while the Gold Red Pro's weight remains unknown, potentially offering a different typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the KTT Glimp linear switch. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be immediately noticeable to all users but can impact the overall typing or gaming experience. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Gold Red Pro, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Glimp with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer a distinct feel due to their slightly different travel distances, providing users with options to suit their individual needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 Glimp linear switch is characterized by a fairly clacky sound profile, offering a crisp, bright, and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch produces a neutral sound signature, neither too pronounced nor too muted, making it suitable for any auditory environment. While the Glimp switch provides a more distinctive auditory experience, the Gold Red Pro switch offers a more balanced and versatile sound profile suitable for various settings.
Moving on to the feel, the KTT Glimp linear switch is known for its creamy and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with gentle characteristics. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch provides a polished and silky typing experience, characterized by a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and enhances key travel. Both switches offer a gentle typing experience, but the Glimp switch leans towards a more creamy feel, while the Gold Red Pro switch emphasizes a polished and sleek typing sensation.
Overall, the KTT Glimp linear switch stands out for its tactile feedback, comfortable actuation force, and clacky sound profile, providing a satisfying and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers ease of press, adaptability, and a neutral sound signature, making it a versatile option for users with varying preferences. While the Glimp switch may offer a more distinctive typing feel and sound, the Gold Red Pro switch excels in adaptability and versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of typing and gaming scenarios. Ultimately, both switches have their unique qualities, and the choice between them will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT Glimp linear switch or the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, you should take into account the specific qualities each switch offers. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, tactile feedback, and a clacky sound profile, the Glimp switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize versatility, ease of press, a neutral sound signature, and a polished or silky typing feel, the Gold Red Pro switch could be a better fit for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and the type of environment in which you plan to use the keyboard. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs, so choose wisely based on what matters most to you.
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