KTT Glimp vs. KTT Hyacinth
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the KTT Hyacinth switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the KTT Glimp and the KTT Hyacinth, two mechanical keyboard switches that each offer a unique typing experience. The Glimp switch, a linear switch, 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 Hyacinth switch stands out with its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, aiming to avoid the hard-bottoming out experience commonly found in switches with longer stems. This commitment to user comfort also extends to the choice of a single-stage elongated spring, providing a more consistent force curve. Both switches have their own distinct categorizations, with the Glimp being clacky, creamy, mild, and neutral and the Hyacinth being neutral, silky, and subtle. 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
56g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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 spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the KTT Hyacinth, specifically the polycarbonate top housing, are identical. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for those who prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches.
On the other hand, the housing materials of the Glimp and the Hyacinth differ in terms of the bottom housing, with the Glimp using nylon while the Hyacinth also employs nylon. Nylon is well-known as a classic switch housing material that offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. As a relatively softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. When typing on switches with nylon bottom housing, users can expect a more impactful and tactile experience as the bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel.
To summarize, the KTT Glimp and the KTT Hyacinth share the same polycarbonate top housing, ensuring a sharp and resonant sound profile while allowing for enhanced lighting effects. However, they differ in the bottom housing, with both switches utilizing nylon. The nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience, with the Glimp offering a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the Glimp and the Hyacinth will depend on the user's preference for sound and tactile feedback, as well as their interest in RGB lighting customization.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Glimp linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, there are a few key differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which places it in the medium-light category. On the other hand, the Hyacinth has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, also falling into the medium-light range. As such, both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke and the overall resistance when bottoming out. This similarity in weight can be advantageous for users who prefer a lighter keystroke for extended typing sessions. However, if one desires a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, they may opt for switches with heavier forces, in which case neither the Glimp nor the Hyacinth would be the ideal choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the KTT Hyacinth linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Glimp has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Hyacinth has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. 4.0mm is the more traditional and standard travel distance, offering a familiar tactile experience when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Hyacinth is considered shallow and may be preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. The shorter travel distance of the Hyacinth allows for quicker actuation, which is advantageous in competitive gaming scenarios. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial keypress, the 4 mm travel distance of the Glimp would be a better choice. It provides a deeper and more pronounced feedback when typing or gaming. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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 Glimp linear switch is best known for its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, providing a satisfying and responsive typing feel. It strikes a perfect balance for those seeking a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. The sound profile of the Glimp switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. In terms of feel, the Glimp switch offers a creamy typing experience, like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. It has a mild characteristic, providing a more gentle typing experience that is approachable to most.
On the other hand, the Hyacinth linear switch stands out for its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, aimed at avoiding a hard bottoming-out experience commonly found in switches with longer stems. This decision is driven by a commitment to creating an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. The sound profile of the Hyacinth switch is described as neutral, suitable for most intents and purposes. The feel of the Hyacinth switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. It minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel. The resistance is gentle, making it suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, both the Glimp and Hyacinth switches offer a satisfying and responsive typing experience. While the Glimp switch has a clacky sound profile and a creamy, mild feel, the Hyacinth switch has a neutral sound profile and a silky, subtle feel. The Glimp switch strikes a balance between typing experience and resistance, while the Hyacinth switch focuses on creating a smooth and comfortable typing feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver similar results in terms of typing satisfaction. It is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, as they can also influence the sound of the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that strikes a balanced typing experience, the KTT Glimp linear switch would be a great choice. With its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, it provides a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. The Glimp switch offers satisfying tactile feedback and a comfortable actuation force, ensuring a responsive typing feel. Additionally, its clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that prioritizes user comfort and a unique design choice, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is worth considering. With a bottom out force of 56 grams, it falls under the medium-light category. The Hyacinth switch stands out with its 3.5mm travel distance, which helps prevent a hard bottoming-out experience common with switches with longer stems. This design decision aims to achieve an ideal balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. Additionally, the Hyacinth deviates from the mainstream trend by using a single-stage elongated spring, resulting in a more consistent force curve. Ultimately, both switches offer a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. In terms of feel, the Glimp provides a creamy and mild typing experience, while the Hyacinth offers a silky and subtle typing sensation. Overall, whether you prioritize a balanced typing experience or user comfort, either the KTT Glimp or Hyacinth switch can meet your needs. Consider your preferences and requirements to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard.
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