KTT Glimp vs. Bsun Light Sakura
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Bsun Light Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Glimp and Bsun Light Sakura present distinct options for different typing preferences. The Glimp switch is celebrated for its medium-light actuation force, providing a satisfying tactile feedback that caters to users wanting a balanced typing experience. Its characteristic clackiness not only adds an enjoyable auditory element but also enhances the overall engagement of your typing sessions. Conversely, the Light Sakura excels in comfort and discretion, featuring an ultra-light feel that minimizes finger fatigue, making it ideal for lengthy typing tasks. Its silent operation is perfect for those who work in shared office spaces, ensuring that productivity isn’t hindered by noisy keystrokes. While both switches offer unique advantages—one emphasizing a responsive and engaging typing experience and the other prioritizing comfort and quietness—there’s much more to explore in their specific characteristics and applications. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
When examining the KTT Glimp and Bsun Light Sakura switches, it is evident that both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which significantly contributes to their audio characteristics. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which promotes a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile, resulting in a clear and resonant auditory experience. This shared material choice enhances the aesthetic appeal of both switches, particularly when RGB lighting is involved, as the transparency of polycarbonate allows for effective light diffusion. Therefore, users can expect a similar performance in terms of sound clarity and visual impact when employing either switch.
However, the differences between the two switches become pronounced when examining their bottom housing materials. The KTT Glimp utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which is a classic and softer plastic that absorbs sound, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This choice contributes to a more muted typing experience, giving the user a rounder sound when the keystroke bottoms out. In contrast, the Light Sakura employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which mirrors the sound characteristics of its top housing, yielding a sharper, more resonant sound. Consequently, this difference means that the Glimp will have a more pronounced impact on the auditory softness during key presses, while the Light Sakura maintains a consistent clarity across both housings.
The overall sound character of each switch results from a combination of their distinct housing materials. While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing that lends its crisper sound to each keystroke released, the KTT Glimp's nylon bottom housing softens the impact of the stroke. Conversely, the Bsun Light Sakura’s polycarbonate bottom housing ensures that this clarity is maintained, creating a more vibrant auditory footprint throughout the key press experience. Therefore, while users can anticipate a shared quality of sharpness from the top housing of both switches, the overall effect will differ markedly due to the materials employed in their respective bottom housings.
Weight
The KTT Glimp linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch differ in both actuation and bottom out forces, catering to various typing preferences. The Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light, while the Light Sakura presents a lighter feel with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This means that the Light Sakura is the lighter option, providing a less strenuous typing experience ideal for extended use, whereas the Glimp, being heavier, offers a more substantial push that some might prefer for a satisfying tactile feedback during typing or gaming sessions. If you're looking for a lighter switch that minimizes strain during long periods of typing, the Light Sakura would be the better choice. However, if you enjoy a firmer resistance and prefer a heavier feel, the Glimp might be more suitable.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, there is a clear distinction in their measurements: the Glimp has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Light Sakura measures 3.6 mm. This makes the Glimp the longer option, offering a more traditional feel that may appeal to users who prefer a deeper, more tactile experience with their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Light Sakura, with its shorter travel distance, caters to those seeking faster response times—an aspect often favored by gamers. Consequently, users can anticipate a more immediate actuation with the Sakura, which some may find preferable for quick actions during gameplay. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches hinges on personal preference, with the Glimp benefiting those who enjoy more substantial key presses, while the Sakura serves those who value speed and responsiveness.
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 Bsun Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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, the KTT Glimp switch stands out with its fairly clacky profile, delivering a crisp and percussive audio experience that can make typing feel more engaging and dynamic. This "clacky" quality is characterized by a sharp sound that adds an enjoyable element to each keystroke, making it an appealing choice for those who appreciate a more expressive auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura is built specifically for discretion, embodying a silent operation ideal for quiet environments. While the exact sound profile of the Light Sakura is unknown, it is designed to minimize noise, making it suitable for office settings or shared spaces where a gentle typing experience is necessary.
In terms of feel, the Glimp switch offers a creamy, buttery typing sensation, allowing for smooth keystrokes that glide effortlessly under your fingers. This particular quality can create a luxurious tactile experience, making it perfect for users who enjoy an engaging and tactile response with each press. Additionally, the Glimp's mild characteristics ensure that its actuation force is approachable and comfortable, suitable for various typing styles. The specific feel of the Light Sakura, however, is not detailed, but its ultra-light design suggests it aims for a gentle experience, likely reducing finger fatigue, making it ideal for long typing sessions.
In summary, the KTT Glimp switch appeals to those who prefer a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience, while the Bsun Light Sakura is designed for a quieter, more comfortable use without compromising on performance. While the Glimp switch’s clacky sound and creamy feel present a vibrant typing experience, the Light Sakura focuses on delivering a subtle yet effective performance for prolonged typing without disruption. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you might choose one over the other; however, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience in their own right, catering to differing needs and environments.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch should hinge on your specific needs and typing environment. If you prefer a more substantial typing feel and enjoy a responsive feedback with a clacky sound profile, the Glimp is a great option, offering a comfortable actuation force that balances lightness with a gratifying typing experience. This makes it particularly favorable for those who thrive on auditory cues while typing or gaming, where a bit of sound can enhance immersion. On the other hand, if your priority is silence and comfort during long typing sessions, especially in shared or office environments, the Light Sakura is the ideal switch for you. With its ultra-light actuation force and discreet operation, you can type with ease without drawing attention or disturbing those around you. Ultimately, the Glimp suits those who relish a lively, tactile experience, while the Light Sakura caters to individuals seeking a gentle and quiet typing solution. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences, and you'll set yourself up for a more enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
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