KTT Glimp vs. HMX Gravel
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the HMX Gravel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Glimp and HMX Gravel stand out as two excellent options for those seeking a linear switch experience. The Glimp switch is celebrated for its medium-light actuation force, providing a balanced typing experience that strikes the perfect harmony between comfort and feedback. Users often appreciate its tactile feedback and the clacky sound it generates, enriching the overall auditory pleasure during typing. In contrast, the HMX Gravel switch focuses on delivering a smooth and refined experience, leaning slightly towards a lighter actuation force that allows for effortless keystrokes. While both switches cater to the needs of enthusiasts desiring a responsive touch, the Glimp brings a more pronounced sound profile, while the Gravel prioritizes a silky-smooth feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Glimp and HMX Gravel both utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, resulting in a remarkably similar sound profile. The polycarbonate material's stiffness contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing. This characteristic not only enhances auditory clarity but also facilitates the integration of RGB lighting due to its translucency. Given that both switch models employ polycarbonate for their top housings, enthusiasts seeking aesthetic versatility and a vibrant lighting experience will find that both switches deliver equivalent performance regarding these features.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Glimp and Gravel utilize nylon, a classic material known for its unique acoustic properties. Nylon's relatively softer texture absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, thus yielding a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material choice means that while both switches possess polycarbonate top housings that reinforce a bright sound, the nylon bottoms introduce a rounded auditory experience when typing. The combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom in both switches ensures that each switch retains balanced sound characteristics, being bright and crisp on key release while also reflecting a richer tone on bottom-out.
Ultimately, while both the KTT Glimp and HMX Gravel share polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms, the synergy of these materials dictates how they perform. The polycarbonate top contributes to a clearer sound, especially upon key release, while the nylon bottom deepens the overall sound profile when pressed down. Therefore, despite any potential differences in branding or specific design nuances, users can expect a remarkably similar typing experience from both switches, characterized by a harmonious blend of sharpness and depth in sound.
Weight
The KTT Glimp and HMX Gravel linear switches exhibit distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Glimp features an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, presenting a medium-light feel that may be favored for longer typing sessions or gaming due to its relatively lighter push. In contrast, the Gravel has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams but a lower bottom out force of 50 grams, making it overall a lighter switch in terms of bottoming out. This difference in bottom out feel can lead to a more cushioned experience when pressing down fully with the Gravel switch compared to the Glimp, which is firmer at the bottom. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the heavier Glimp may be more appealing, while the Gravel appeals to those who enjoy a lighter feel without sacrificing performance. Overall, while the actuation forces are fairly close, the Gravel offers a lighter experience overall due to its lower bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, the differences are notable. The Glimp features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gravel has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Gravel the more responsive option, appealing particularly to gamers who favor quicker key presses for faster response times. In contrast, the Glimp’s longer travel distance provides a more traditional feel, offering a depth that some users may find more satisfying and comfortable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for responsiveness versus a deeper keystroke experience.
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 HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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 KTT Glimp switch stands out with its fairly clacky profile, producing a crisp and percussive sound that enhances the typing experience. This sound quality creates an engaging auditory feedback that many typists find enjoyable, making it well-suited for both casual use and lively typing sessions. The Glimp's sound, characterized as sharp and bright, may provide a motivating atmosphere for those who appreciate the auditory elements of typing. The HMX Gravel switch, on the other hand, does not have a described sound profile, leaving its auditory qualities unknown. This absence means that sound enthusiasts might need to research or personally test the Gravel to gauge its performance in this domain. Additionally, it's important to remember that the overall sound experience can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard, keycaps, and the surrounding environment.
In terms of feel, the Glimp switch presents a unique combination of creamy and mild characteristics. The creamy quality suggests that users will enjoy a smooth, buttery typing experience, where keystrokes feel almost effortless due to potential lubrication or specific materials used in its construction. The mild descriptor adds to the appeal by providing a gentle and approachable experience, ideal for someone just starting out in the mechanical keyboard world. By contrast, the feel of the HMX Gravel switch remains unknown, which could leave potential users curious about its performance. This uncertainty may prompt individuals to seek out personal experiences or reviews before making a decision.
In conclusion, while the KTT Glimp linear switch offers a distinctly clacky sound profile and a creamy, mild feel, the HMX Gravel switch leaves some gaps in the auditory and tactile descriptions. If sound is a priority, the Glimp provides a lively typing experience, while those looking for a smooth and responsive feel might find satisfaction with either switch, albeit with the Glimp having more clearly defined qualities. For newcomers, the Glimp may be a safer bet because of its established performance characteristics, while the Gravel could represent a tantalizing unknown to explore further. Ultimately, individual preference will play a significant role in determining which switch might best suit one’s typing needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the KTT Glimp and HMX Gravel linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you seek a satisfying tactile experience with a noticeable sound profile, the KTT Glimp might be the right choice for you. Its medium-light actuation force of 53 grams offers a balanced feel, perfect for both casual typing and serious work, while its clacky sound adds an engaging auditory element to your sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more effortless typing action, you may want to lean towards the HMX Gravel, which boasts a light actuation force of 50 grams and prioritizes a refined, buttery typing experience. The Gravel excels in providing a responsive and seamless feel, making it an excellent option for fast typists or gamers who prioritize quick keystrokes without the added distraction of sound. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you favor a more pronounced auditory feedback and a slight tactile feel with the Glimp, or the superior smoothness and lighter touch of the Gravel.
Mentioned in this article
