KTT Glimp vs. KTT Grapefruit
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the KTT Grapefruit switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the KTT Glimp and the KTT Grapefruit, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Glimp switch is a linear switch that strikes the perfect balance for those seeking a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. With its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, the Glimp switch offers a satisfying and responsive typing feel. Additionally, its fairly clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Grapefruit switch is also a linear switch but offers a softer and lighter typing feel. With a "baritone" though not yet "bass" deep sound profile, the Grapefruit switch provides a different auditory experience compared to the Glimp switch. Both switches have their unique characteristics and advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the KTT Grapefruit have some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful if you plan to use RGB lighting. This means that both the Glimp and the Grapefruit will deliver similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics when it comes to their top housing material.
However, the differences arise when we look at the bottom housing of these switches. The Glimp features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Grapefruit also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, meaning that it will offer the same deeper and fuller sound experience.
Overall, the distinction between the Glimp and the Grapefruit lies in the combination of their top and bottom housing materials. While the sound experienced when pressing down on the switches and the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel will be the same due to the nylon material, the sound experienced when letting go of a key will be influenced by the top housing material. Therefore, the polycarbonate top housing of the Glimp and Grapefruit will deliver a crisper and resonant sound when releasing a key, contributing to the overall sound profile of the switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch are quite similar. Both switches have a bottom out force of 53 grams, indicating a medium-light resistance when fully pressed down. However, there is a slight difference in their actuation forces. The KTT Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the KTT Grapefruit has an actuation force of 45 grams. Despite this difference, both actuation forces can still be considered as medium-light.
Considering weight, these switches offer options for different preferences. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the lower actuation force of 43 grams on the KTT Glimp can provide a smoother and easier keystroke. This lighter actuation force can be beneficial for long typing sessions, enabling users to type effortlessly for extended periods of time, whether at work or during gaming sessions.
On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for a switch with a heavier force. The KTT Grapefruit, with its slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams, can offer a stronger push feel, providing a tactile feedback that some users find more satisfying. This heavier actuation force can enhance the overall typing experience, especially for those who prefer a more pronounced resistance when pressing the keys.
In summary, while the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Glimp and KTT Grapefruit are similar, there is a slight difference in their actuation forces. The Glimp has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, whereas the Grapefruit has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to users who desire a stronger push feel. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer a medium-light bottom out force, delivering comparable results in terms of resistance when fully pressed down.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Glimp and the KTT Grapefruit linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will feel the switch travel a total distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, the travel distance of these two switches is identical, resulting in similar user experiences when typing or gaming.
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 KTT Grapefruit comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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 KTT Glimp linear switch is best known for offering a medium-light typing experience with a satisfying tactile feedback. It strikes a perfect balance for those who desire a substantial typing feel without overwhelming resistance. The Glimp switch has a fairly clacky sound profile, which adds an enjoyable auditory element to typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Grapefruit linear switch showcases a soft and light typing feel. It is described as having a "baritone" but not yet "bass" deep sound profile. The Grapefruit switch provides a more mellow and low-pitched sound compared to the Glimp switch. It is important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Glimp switch offers a creamy and smooth typing experience. This is achieved through either factory lubrication or specific materials used in the switch. Typing on a Glimp switch feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, as each keystroke effortlessly melts into a the next. The Glimp switch can be described as having a mild typing experience, which means it offers a gentle and approachable feel to most users. On the other hand, the Grapefruit switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience. It offers reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Glimp and Grapefruit linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Glimp switch has a clacky sound profile and a creamy typing experience, while the Grapefruit switch has a low-pitched sound profile and a polished typing experience. Both switches have a neutral actuation force requirement and offer a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of users and purposes. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the KTT Grapefruit linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences. If you value a satisfying and responsive typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force and a clacky sound profile, the Glimp switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and soft typing feel with a low-pitched sound profile, the Grapefruit switch may be more suitable. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and can be used for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. Consider the descriptors of each switch and choose the one that aligns best with your desired typing experience. Overall, both the Glimp and Grapefruit switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.
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