KTT Glimp vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the KTT Glimp and the KTT Laurel, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct features and benefits. The Glimp switch, a linear switch, is best known for striking the perfect balance between substantial typing experience and manageable resistance. With its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, the Glimp switch provides a satisfying and responsive typing feel. Its fairly clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Laurel switch, also a linear switch, prioritizes responsiveness and comfort. With its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, the Laurel switch offers a smooth and comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the Laurel switch produces a subtly low-pitched sound profile. Both switches excel in their own right, providing unique characteristics that cater to different 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
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the KTT Laurel differ significantly, leading to distinct sound profiles and aesthetics. The Glimp features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate lends itself well to RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Laurel utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and relatively more muted sound. This gives the Laurel a unique sound profile that some users may find more pleasing.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Glimp incorporates a nylon material, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Laurel features a POM bottom housing, contributing to its distinct sound profile. The POM material brings a deeper and more muted sound to the overall typing experience.
It is important to note that when using switches with different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the bottom and top of the switch. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are felt, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, depending on personal preferences, users may choose the Glimp for its sharper and crisper sound or opt for the Laurel if they prefer a deeper and more subdued typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The actuation force for both switches is the same at 43 grams, which means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is identical. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness and typing experience. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a distinction. The Glimp has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is considered medium-light. On the other hand, the Laurel has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that the Laurel switch would provide a slightly lighter typing experience, allowing users to type for longer periods of time without experiencing fatigue. It is important to note that while some may prefer the lighter feel of the Laurel, others may favor a heavier push for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and the specific use case.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional travel distance. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. If you are a gamer seeking faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Laurel switch may be more suitable for you. This shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses, giving you an advantage in gaming. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Glimp switch with its longer travel distance would be a better option for you. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 Glimp linear switch is best known for its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, providing a satisfying and responsive typing feel. It strikes the perfect balance between a substantial typing experience and not overwhelming resistance. In terms of sound, the Glimp switch has a fairly clacky sound profile, adding an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Laurel linear switch is characterized by its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, which also provides a balance of responsiveness and comfort. It has a subtly low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
Comparing the two switches, the Glimp switch offers a more tactile typing experience with a clacky sound profile, while the Laurel switch provides a smoother and more responsive typing feel with a low-pitched sound profile. So depending on your preference for tactile feedback and sound, you can choose between the two switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of board and keycaps. Overall, both switches aim to strike a balance between typing experience and comfort, allowing you to find a switch that suits your needs. Whether you prefer a slightly more tactile and clacky feel or a smoother and snappier typing experience, both switches will provide satisfactory results.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are seeking a keyboard switch that offers a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance, the KTT Glimp linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, it strikes a perfect balance in terms of actuation force. The Glimp switch provides a satisfying and responsive typing feel, thanks to its tactile feedback. Additionally, its fairly clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lower bottom out force of 50 grams and a more mellow sound profile, the KTT Laurel linear switch would be a suitable option. The Laurel switch offers a comfortable and responsive typing experience with its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design. Overall, both switches have their unique qualities, but ultimately, your choice should depend on whether you prioritize the tactile feedback and clacky sound of the Glimp or the mellow sound and responsiveness of the Laurel.
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