KTT Glimp vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Glimp and Keygeek Keylin offer distinct experiences for users seeking a linear switch. The Glimp is recognized for its medium-light actuation force, which strikes a harmonious balance between a solid typing sensation and manageable resistance, making it ideal for those who enjoy a responsive key feel along with a satisfying clacky sound profile. This combination ensures not only a comfortable typing experience but also an engaging auditory element that many users appreciate. On the other hand, the Keylin, utilizing innovative molds from Keygeek, elevates the linear switch experience with its unparalleled smoothness and rich acoustics, appealing to those who prioritize a quieter, yet equally refined typing experience. While both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, the Glimp captures those who revel in a more dynamic sound and tactile feedback, while the Keylin is perfect for users who seek a premium, whisper-soft touch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the KTT Glimp and the Keygeek Keylin, one notable distinction lies in the material used for their top housings. The Glimp features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material not only contributes to the overall clarity and resonance of the switch's sound but also enhances the aesthetic appeal when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Keylin utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic switch housing material associated with a softer sound profile that tends to be deeper and fuller. While the polycarbonate top provides a brighter auditory experience, the nylon top offers a rounded, muted quality that caters to different typing preferences.
However, both the Glimp and Keylin utilize nylon for their bottom housings, creating a shared characteristic in this regard. The nylon material in both cases contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing sound better due to its softer structure. This uniformity means that both switches will elicit a similar bottom-out sound and feel, emphasizing the softer and more muted sound experience often favored by users desiring a less harsh typing sound. While the top housing of each switch distinctly influences the sound upon key release, the nylon bottom housing unifies the tactile experience when bottoming out.
Ultimately, the combination of the different materials in the top and bottom housings creates unique yet complementary sound profiles for the KTT Glimp and the Keygeek Keylin. The Glimp, with its polycarbonate top, offers a bright and resonant release sound alongside a nylon bottom for a rounded bottom-out experience, while the Keylin delivers a fuller, deeper sound throughout, thanks to its nylon top and bottom combination. Despite these differences, the nylon components in both switches ensure that users can expect a consistent depth and fullness from their keystrokes, allowing for enjoyable typing experiences in both cases. Thus, by understanding how the materials interact, users can choose a switch that best aligns with their auditory and tactile preferences.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Glimp features an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Keylin has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it the lighter option between the two. This distinction means that users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean toward the Keylin for a more comfortable experience. Conversely, the Glimp offers a slightly heavier feel, which may appeal to those who desire a more substantial typing experience due to its stronger push. Overall, while both switches provide different tactile experiences, the Keylin is the lighter switch, making it advantageous for prolonged use, whereas the Glimp offers a moderate force, ideal for users seeking a bit more resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, the Glimp has a travel distance of 4 mm, whereas the Keylin measures at 3.6 mm. This means that the Glimp offers a longer travel distance, which can provide a more pronounced feedback and a fuller feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Keylin's 3.6 mm travel distance caters to those seeking quicker response times, making it a preferable choice for gamers who value speed and efficiency. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference: if you appreciate a more substantial keystroke, the longer Glimp would be ideal; however, if you favor a more responsive and snappy feel, the shorter Keylin might suit you better.
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 Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin for $3.29.
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 sound profile of the KTT Glimp switch is characterized as fairly clacky, producing a crisp, bright, and percussive tone when typed on. This sound adds an engaging auditory dimension to the typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback from their switches. On the other hand, the Keylin linear switch, while not specifically described in terms of sound, is noted for offering rich acoustics. This suggests that although it may differ in sound characteristics from the Glimp, it likely provides an enjoyable auditory experience of its own. It’s essential to remember that the sound produced by any switch can be influenced by other factors, including the keyboard frame and keycap material.
Regarding feel, the Glimp switch excels in delivering a creamy, smooth typing experience, thanks to the lubricant applied during manufacturing. This results in a buttery sensation during typing that allows fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. Additionally, the mild actuation force emphasizes user comfort, striking a balance that is accessible to both beginners and experienced typists. In contrast, the feel of the Keylin linear switch is not explicitly detailed, leaving some uncertainty about how it compares. However, given its overall design focus on premium typing experiences, one can reasonably anticipate that the Keylin switch offers a smooth and satisfying feel, potentially mirroring the enjoyable characteristics of the Glimp.
In summary, while the KTT Glimp and Keygeek Keylin linear switches may exhibit distinct auditory and tactile qualities, both are crafted to enhance the typing experience in their own ways. The Glimp switch shines with its clacky sound and creamy, mild feel, making it a solid choice for appealing auditory feedback and smooth tactile interaction. Though the specifics of the Keylin's sound and feel are less well-defined, its emphasis on rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness indicates a high-quality typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between the two will depend on personal preference regarding sound and feel, as both switches promise an enjoyable mechanical typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the KTT Glimp and Keygeek Keylin linear switches will largely depend on your personal preferences regarding typing feel and sound. If you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a bit of tactile feedback, the Glimp's medium-light actuation force of 53 grams provides a satisfying response without being overly heavy. Its clacky sound profile adds an engaging auditory dimension, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy the acoustic aspects of typing. Additionally, the Glimp's creamy texture offers a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, ideal for users who appreciate a slight resistance to their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you're someone who favors a lighter touch, the Keylin with its 48-gram bottom-out force is designed for you. Its exceptional smoothness, derived from new mold technology, ensures every keystroke is effortless and fluid, ideal for rapid typing or gaming. While the Keylin doesn't emphasize sound as much as the Glimp, it excels in providing a refined acoustic experience, making it perfect for quiet environments. In summary, if you want a more vibrant and tactile experience, go for the Glimp, whereas the Keylin is your best bet for a lighter, smoother typing journey.