KTT Glimp vs. Durock Ice King Linear
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Durock Ice King Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the KTT Glimp and the Durock Ice King Linear mechanical keyboard switches, both switches offer unique features catered to different preferences. The Glimp switch is well-known for its medium-light weight and tactile feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience with comfortable actuation force. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear boasts a silky smooth typing experience thanks to its full nylon construction and generous factory lube. While the Glimp switch offers a clacky sound profile for an enjoyable auditory element, the Ice King Linear provides a subdued and creamy typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you make the best decision for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
Overall, the KTT Glimp and the Durock Ice King Linear both utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. The use of nylon in the bottom housing absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the top housing of the Glimp is made of polycarbonate, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Ice King Linear features a nylon top housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing.
While both the Glimp and the Ice King Linear share nylon as the material for their bottom housing, they differ in their choice of material for the top housing. The Glimp's polycarbonate top housing provides a clear and resonant sound profile, especially suitable for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound to create a duller and rounder tone. This contrast in housing materials between the two switches highlights the impact that the top and bottom housings can have on the overall typing experience, with the Glimp delivering a sharper sound while the Ice King Linear offers a deeper and fuller sound.
Despite the differences in their housing materials, both the KTT Glimp and the Durock Ice King Linear aim to enhance the typing experience through the unique properties of polycarbonate and nylon. The Glimp's polycarbonate top housing creates a distinct sound profile that is sharp and resonant, while the Ice King Linear's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller tone. Similarly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile that is particularly noticeable during bottom-out keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, it is evident that the Ice King Linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Glimp linear switch. The Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Ice King Linear has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of force, with the Ice King being slightly heavier. Depending on preference, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer durations may opt for the Glimp switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Ice King Linear switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the Durock Ice King Linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Although both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, the Glimp offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Ice King. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Ice King due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the Glimp to be more satisfying. Both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their respective travel distances, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences for keypress depth.
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 Durock Ice King Linear has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Linear for $4.20.
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 switch offers a clacky sound profile, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This adds a satisfying auditory element to your typing sessions, providing a crisp and bright sound. On the other hand, the Durock Ice King Linear switch produces a more subdued sound, offering a dampened and subtle sound signature. Depending on personal preference, the Glimp switch may be preferred for those who enjoy a more distinct and pronounced typing sound, while the Ice King Linear switch may appeal to those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Glimp switch is noted for its creamy and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. This creates a silky feel, making each keystroke effortless and enjoyable. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Linear switch provides a silky and frictionless typing experience, minimizing resistance and providing a fluid key travel. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, with the Glimp switch focusing on a creamy sensation and the Ice King Linear switch emphasizing a polished and refined typing feel.
Overall, while the KTT Glimp and Durock Ice King Linear switches differ in sound and feel, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, users can choose between the clacky and creamy feel of the Glimp switch or the subdued and silky feel of the Ice King Linear switch. With either option, users can expect a satisfying and responsive typing experience, with the choice between a more pronounced sound profile or a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer excellent quality and smooth key actuation for an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Durock Ice King Linear linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences. If you are looking for a medium-light switch with tactile feedback, a clacky sound profile, and a creamy typing experience, the Glimp switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with a silky smooth typing experience, a subdued sound profile, and a frictionless feel, the Ice King Linear switch could be the perfect match for your needs. Evaluate your priorities in terms of actuation force, sound, and feel to make an informed decision on which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Glimp and Ice King Linear switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing requirements.
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