KTT Glimp vs. KTT Lightning

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Glimp and the KTT Lightning. The Glimp switch is a linear switch that strikes the perfect balance for those seeking a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. With its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, the Glimp switch offers a satisfying and responsive typing feel. Additionally, its fairly clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Lightning switch is also a linear switch, but it is known for its approachable "speed" nature. Perfect for situations where milliseconds can decide your success, the Lightning switch offers a slick typing feel and a clacky sound profile. While both switches have their own unique characteristics, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Glimp Linear

KTT Lightning Linear

$3.84

$3.45 per 10

$3.41 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Glimp and the KTT Lightning both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This choice results in a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for creating a pleasant auditory experience while typing. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it a great option for those who plan to incorporate RGB lighting into their keyboard setup. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either the Glimp or the Lightning.

When it comes to their bottom housings, both the KTT Glimp and the KTT Lightning feature nylon as the material of choice. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This is because nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While the sound produced by the bottom housing may take precedence during the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the nylon material contributes to a satisfying typing experience.

In summary, the main differences between the KTT Glimp and the KTT Lightning lie in their top housings. The Glimp features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Lightning shares the same material. This choice ensures a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prioritize a clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound, creating a satisfying typing sensation. Overall, users can expect comparable results in terms of sound quality and typing experience with either switch.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, there are some similarities and differences. Both switches have the same actuation force of 43 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is equal for both switches. This ensures that users will have a similar typing experience in terms of the initial push feel. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a slight variation. The Glimp has a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Lightning switch, which has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that when pressing the keys all the way down, the Glimp switch will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience compared to the Lightning switch.

Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch to allow for longer periods of comfortable typing, especially for those who bring their keyboards to work or engage in extended gaming sessions. In this regard, the Lightning switch, with its lighter bottom out force, would be more suitable. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For such individuals, the Glimp switch with its slightly heavier bottom out force would be the preferable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on the user's personal preference for the level of force required for comfortable and satisfying keystrokes.

Travel distance

The KTT Glimp linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm. The Glimp offers a more traditional travel distance of 4 mm, which provides a deeper keystroke and a more satisfying feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Lightning offers a shallower travel distance of 3 mm, making it a preferred option for gamers who require faster response times. Those who prefer a more responsive typing experience may find the Lightning switch to be more suitable. However, for individuals who enjoy a deeper and more substantial keystroke, the Glimp switch with its longer travel distance would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, both the KTT Glimp and the KTT Lightning switches have a clacky sound profile. This means that they produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving your typing sessions an enjoyable auditory element. The Glimp switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, the Lightning switch has a high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. It also has a chirpy characteristic, adding a unique acoustic signature to these switches. Overall, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile, the Glimp switch would be a great choice. If you enjoy the high-pitched and chirpy sound, the Lightning switch would be more suitable. Keep in mind that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps you choose.

In terms of feel, the Glimp switch offers a creamy and mild typing experience. "Creamy" switches are known for providing a smooth and buttery feel, like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. They offer a silky sensation and effortless keystrokes. "Mild" switches, on the other hand, offer a gentle typing experience with more subtle characteristics. This makes them approachable and comfortable for most users. On the other hand, the Lightning switch provides a subtle and polished typing experience. The subtleness refers to a gentle resistance that is not too feather-light, while still maintaining a light type feel. It is suitable for shared spaces as it does not produce a resonant sound. The polished characteristic indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Based on these descriptions, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience, the Glimp switch would be a great choice. If you prefer a more subtle and polished typing experience, the Lightning switch would be more suitable.

In summary, both the KTT Glimp and the KTT Lightning switches offer clacky sound profiles, but have some differences. The Glimp switch has a more neutral sound profile, while the Lightning switch has a high-pitched and chirpy sound profile. As for feel, the Glimp switch offers a creamy and mild typing experience, while the Lightning switch provides a subtle and polished typing experience. If you want similar results to the Glimp switch, the Lightning switch may still provide a clacky sound and a comfortable typing feel, but with additional high-pitched and chirpy characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when choosing between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and specific needs. The Glimp switch is ideal for those who prioritize a substantial typing experience with tactile feedback and a comfortable actuation force. It strikes a balance between a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams and a clacky sound profile that adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Lightning switch is perfect for those who value speed and responsiveness. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams, it offers a slick typing feel and a clacky sound profile. Additionally, if milliseconds can decide your success, the Lightning switch is a great choice. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the Glimp offers a creamy and mild feel, while the Lightning offers a subtle and polished feel. Consider your sound and feel preferences, as well as the specific use case for your keyboard, whether it's for home or work, to make the best decision for your needs.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Glimp Linear

$3.84

$3.45 per 10

Learn more

KTT Lightning Linear

$3.41 per 10

Learn more