KTT Glimp vs. Gateron Ink Box Black
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options stand out: the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Ink Box Black. Both switches fall under the linear switch category, but they offer unique characteristics and advantages. The Glimp switch is hailed for its medium-light actuation force that strikes a perfect balance between a substantial typing experience and minimal resistance. With tactile feedback and a comfortable feel, the Glimp switch provides a satisfying and responsive typing experience. Additionally, its clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black is known for its incredibly smooth and creamy operation. The sound signature is likened to a spray paint can being shaken, which adds a unique flavor to your typing sessions. With a high-pitched and polished feel, the Ink Box Black switch offers a distinct typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Glimp and the Gateron Ink Box Black have different housing materials, which result in distinct sound profiles. The Glimp features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prioritize a defined sound experience. In contrast, the Ink Box Black uses Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing. This material creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, which is described as clacky but not overly sharp. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, but the Glimp's polycarbonate housing emphasizes clarity, while the Ink Box Black offers a slightly softer and clackier sound.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Glimp utilizes a nylon material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This may appeal to individuals who prefer a more muted typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black incorporates Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing. Similar to its top housing, this material produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, adding to the clacky sensation. These bottom housings contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches, with the Glimp providing a deeper sound and the Ink Box Black offering a higher-pitched clack.
While the top and bottom housings of the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Ink Box Black differ, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the sensation and sound will mainly be influenced by the bottom housing. The Glimp's nylon bottom housing, with its softer nature, will contribute to a deeper bottom-out sound and a more cushioned feel upon pressing the key. In comparison, the Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing will produce a sharper and higher-pitched bottom-out sound, enhancing the tactile feedback. However, when releasing a key, the top housing will have more impact on the sound. Therefore, while the housing materials may be different, both switches offer a distinct sound experience throughout the keystroke process.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Glimp has a relatively lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Ink Box Black's 60 grams, making it more suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter touch when typing for extended periods of time. Similarly, the Glimp has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a smoother and less strenuous typing experience. In contrast, the Ink Box Black has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, giving users a more substantial and tactile feel while typing. While both switches fall within the medium range, the Ink Box Black is the clear choice for those who prefer a stronger and more pronounced push when engaging the keys. Overall, the choice between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences and requirements for typing or gaming activities.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, the Glimp has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Ink Box Black's travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Glimp's 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, while the Ink Box Black's 3.6mm is slightly shallower. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, so if responsiveness is a priority, the Ink Box Black may be the better choice. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Glimp with its longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision depends on personal preference and the desired typing 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 Gateron Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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, both the Glimp and the Ink Box Black switches are described as clacky. This means that they produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. However, the Glimp is also described as having a neutral sound profile, while the Ink Box Black has a high-pitched sound profile. This means that the Ink Box Black will produce a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Glimp. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Glimp is described as creamy and mild. Creamy switches provide a smooth and buttery typing experience, like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The mild characteristic means that the switch offers a more gentle typing experience, suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black is described as silky and polished. Silky switches offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Polished switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Glimp and Ink Box Black switches have different sound and feel characteristics. The Glimp has a clacky sound profile with a neutral switch profile, while the Ink Box Black has a clacky sound profile with a high-pitched switch profile. In terms of feel, the Glimp is creamy and mild, while the Ink Box Black is silky and polished. Both switches offer satisfying and responsive typing experiences, but with slightly different qualities. Depending on your personal preference and the other components of your keyboard setup, you can choose the switch that suits your typing style and desired sound and feel. Overall, regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a satisfying typing experience and a clacky sound profile, the KTT Glimp linear switch would be a great choice. It strikes a balance between resistance and comfort, offering a tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force. The Glimp switch is also described as fairly clacky, which adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch that is incredibly smooth and creamy, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be a suitable option. It offers a silky typing experience and has a sound signature that reminds us of a spray paint can being shaken. The Ink Box Black switch is described as both clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a medium-light switch with a clacky sound and a satisfying typing feel, go for the KTT Glimp. However, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch that is incredibly smooth and creamy with a unique sound profile, the Gateron Ink Box Black would be the better option for you. Consider your typing preferences and noise preferences when making your decision.
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