KTT Glimp vs. Gateron Ink Black V2

Overview

Introduction:

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Ink Black V2. The Glimp is a linear switch that strikes a balance between a substantial typing experience and manageable resistance. With its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, it offers a satisfying and responsive typing feel, accompanied by a fairly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch that has garnered a dedicated following in the community. It boasts a smooth downstroke and a rich clack, providing an enjoyable typing experience. While these general characteristics give an overview of what each switch offers, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.

By the numbers

KTT Glimp Linear

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$3.84

$3.45 per 10

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Ink Black V2, one notable difference is the use of polycarbonate in the Glimp's top housing. This material creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, contributing to a higher-pitched sound. Additionally, due to its translucency, polycarbonate is ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the Glimp provides a clearer and more resonant tone, while the INK blend lends a satisfying and slightly sharp sound.

Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Glimp incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. Alternatively, the Ink Black V2 boasts Gateron's INK blend bottom housing, which shares similar attributes with its top housing. The pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile is again mentioned, suggesting a clacky sound when typing on these switches. While both housings exhibit differences in their sound profiles, the nylon bottom housing of the Glimp offers a more mellow and resonating sound, while the INK blend produces a thinner and sharper tone.

It is worth noting that the impact of the housing materials is experienced differently depending on which part of the switch is pressed. When pressing down on a switch, the characteristics of the bottom housing become more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a greater role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Although the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Ink Black V2 differ in their choice of housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether seeking a crisp and resonant sound with polycarbonate or a clacky and sharp tone with Gateron's INK blend, users are likely to achieve similar satisfying results with either switch.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, a clear distinction can be made. The Glimp possesses a relatively lighter actuation force of 43 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming for extended periods. Its bottom out force of 53 grams provides a slightly more substantial typing experience without being too heavy. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 offers a heavier actuation force of 60 grams, appealing to individuals who desire a stronger push feel. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, the Ink Black V2 provides a more pronounced typing experience with a satisfying weightiness. Therefore, those seeking a lighter switch option should consider the Glimp, while individuals desiring a heavier switch experience can turn to the Ink Black V2.

Travel distance

The KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key fitted with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. Consequently, both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Glimp linear switch offers a clacky sound profile. This means that when the key is pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound, giving a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. This means that it produces a more mellow and rich tone with a deeper frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the Ink Black V2 switch has a unique chirpy element to its sound, adding a subtle squeak that sets it apart. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.

In terms of feel, both the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch are described as having a mild typing experience. This means that they offer a gentle and approachable feel, providing a comfortable typing experience for most users. The Glimp switch is also described as having a creamy feel, which means it offers a smooth and buttery typing experience. This can be attributed to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used in the switch, resulting in a silky sensation as your fingers glide effortlessly across the keys. The Ink Black V2 switch, on the other hand, is described as polished, which indicates a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, providing a sleek typing experience.

Considering all the available information, the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Glimp switch provides a clacky sound profile, adding a crisp and bright auditory element to typing sessions. It also offers a creamy and mild typing experience, allowing for smooth and effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 switch has a low-pitched, bassy sound profile with a chirpy element. It offers a mild typing experience with a polished feel, characterized by reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a clacky sound and creamy feel, the Glimp switch would be a suitable choice. If you prefer a low-pitched, bassy sound with a polished feel, the Ink Black V2 switch would be a better option. However, it's important to consider personal preferences and additional factors such as keyboard and keycap choices to achieve the desired sound and feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-light switch with a satisfying tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, the KTT Glimp linear switch is the way to go. It strikes the perfect balance for those who want a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. Additionally, its clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a classic linear switch, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is a great choice. It offers a smooth downstroke and a rich clack sound. With a medium-heavy bottom out force, it provides a different typing experience compared to the Glimp. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Glimp Linear

$3.84

$3.45 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn more