KTT Glimp vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Jupiter Brown offer distinctive typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Glimp switch is a linear switch that provides a medium-light actuation force and tactile feedback, resulting in a satisfying typing experience with a fairly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown is a tactile switch with a more classic keystroke feel at a medium-heavy weight, offering a blend of tradition and innovation with enhanced softer backlight effects. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits that may appeal to different users based on their typing preferences. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Spring steel
Housing materials
Both the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Jupiter Brown feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced, making it an ideal material for those seeking a more defined typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
In contrast, the nylon bottom housings of both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing has a greater effect on the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, while both the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Jupiter Brown share similarities in their housing materials and resulting sound profiles, the differences in their top and bottom housing materials contribute to slight variations in the typing experience. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in each switch offers a balance of crispness and depth in sound, providing users with a unique and satisfying tactile response. Whether choosing the Glimp or the Jupiter Brown, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience enhanced by their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, it is apparent that the Glimp is lighter in both aspects, with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. The Jupiter Brown, on the other hand, is heavier, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Glimp make it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Jupiter Brown's heavier forces provide a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on the desired level of force required for typing, ensuring that users can choose the option that best suits their preferences.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance allows for a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch you choose. Both switches offer a moderate travel distance that provides a satisfying tactile feedback while typing. Overall, whether you choose the Glimp or the Jupiter Brown switch, you can expect a similar travel distance and 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 Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 Glimp linear switch is best described as having a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This adds a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch does not have a specific sound descriptor provided, so we can infer that it may have a more neutral sound profile. This means the sound of the switch may be moderate, suitable for various settings and preferences.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Glimp linear switch offers a creamy typing experience. This smooth and buttery sensation is akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys with each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch provides a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Jupiter Brown switch is described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Glimp switch provides a satisfying and responsive typing feel, with a clacky sound profile and a creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown switch blends tradition with innovation, offering a more classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, a mild and polished typing experience, and enhanced softer backlight effects. Depending on your preference for sound, feel, and aesthetics, both switches can provide a high-quality typing experience that meets your needs.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, consider the factors of actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-light switch with a clacky sound profile and a creamy, smooth typing experience, the Glimp may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a medium-heavy switch with a neutral sound profile and a mix of mild, polished, and stepped typing feel, the Jupiter Brown might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the typing experience you desire.
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