KTT Glimp vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Glimp and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) both present compelling options for typists and gamers alike, but they cater to slightly different preferences. The Glimp switch, with its medium-light actuation force, is ideal for users seeking a balanced typing experience that combines comfort and responsiveness. Its tactile feedback and clacky sound profile enhance the overall sensation of each keystroke, making it particularly appealing to those who value an engaging auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch offers a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, delivering a bouncy and satisfying feedback that can make lengthy typing sessions feel effortless. Known for its bright resonance, the Lotus switch is excellent for users who appreciate a more robust feel and pronounced auditory feedback with every keystroke. Each switch, therefore, serves to enrich the typing experience in its unique way; the Glimp focusing on a lighter, more nuanced experience, while the Lotus emphasizes a heavier, more energetic feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the HMX Lotus (Heavy), a significant contrast arises with their top housings. The Glimp utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This quality is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, allowing for a more resonant sound that’s particularly beneficial when integrating RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) opts for a nylon top housing, a material that is more classic in switch design. Nylon is softer, leading to a deeper, fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound and producing a more muted tonal quality. This difference in materials not only impacts the acoustic characteristics of the switches but also influences their overall aesthetic appeal in relation to lighting effects.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, it’s intriguing to note that both the KTT Glimp and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) utilize nylon for this component. The similarity in material for the bottom housings results in a shared quality of sound absorption, which contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile regardless of the differences seen in their top housings. With both switches employing nylon in the bottom housing, users can expect a consistent impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, emphasizing the rounded sounds conducive to a more comfortable typing experience. The use of a softer plastic in this case aids in providing a satisfying tactile feedback that many users find appealing.
In conclusion, while the top housings of the KTT Glimp and HMX Lotus (Heavy) differ—one offering clarity and brightness through polycarbonate and the other providing fullness and warmth through nylon—their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a common ground. This combination means that while the switches will produce varying sound signatures when typing, especially on released key strokes due to their differing top materials, the overall experience will convey a certain level of richness from the nylon bottom. This interplay between the materials illustrates how the characteristics of switch design can be both a contrast and a complement, producing a nuanced acoustic profile that may cater to different user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Glimp linear switch to the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, there is a notable difference in actuation and bottom out forces that caters to varying user preferences. The Glimp features an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option that's ideal for users who favor a lighter touch, allowing for longer periods of typing or gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) presents itself with a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. This heavier resistance may give typists and gamers a greater tactile response and a sense of control. Thus, the KTT Glimp is the lighter switch, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is the heavier one, making them suitable for different types of users based on their force preferences for keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, it is clear that they differ significantly. The KTT Glimp has a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional depth preferred by many typists who enjoy a more substantial keystroke experience. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a suitable option for gamers who favor quicker response times and more responsive key actions. As such, if you seek a hearty depth while typing, you would likely prefer the Glimp, while those looking for a more immediate keystroke may gravitate towards the Lotus. Overall, the Glimp offers a longer travel distance compared to the shorter reach of the Lotus (Heavy) switch.
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 HMX Lotus (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus (Heavy) for $2.99.
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 is known for its fairly clacky profile, producing a sharp, snappy sound that is both crisp and bright, making it a delightful auditory experience during typing sessions. This clacky sound adds an engaging element that can enhance the enjoyment of keyboard usage, especially for those who appreciate an audible feedback loop during their interactions. In contrast, the sound characteristics of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch remain unspecified, though it is noted to have a bright, resonant quality. The actual impact of sound can vary significantly based on the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used, suggesting that both switches may deliver a pleasing auditory experience when optimized with the right components.
In terms of feel, the Glimp switch stands out as a creamy switch, affording users a smooth and buttery typing experience. This sensation likely stems from factory lubrication and design choices that facilitate an effortless keystroke. The switch also provides mild feedback, making it approachable for a wide range of users, from beginners to seasoned typists. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch offers a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g, delivering a bouncier and more substantial physical sensation with each key press. While specific descriptions of its tactile feedback are lacking, it can be inferred that the heavier actuation force may create a more pronounced and satisfying resistance compared to the Glimp, which leans towards a lighter touch.
In conclusion, both the KTT Glimp and HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switches provide unique experiences tailored to different preferences. The Glimp switch excels in delivering a lively sound profile and a smooth typing feel, making it excellent for users who enjoy both auditory feedback and a creamy sensation. Conversely, the Lotus switch, with its notable weight and bright sound, offers a bouncy, engaging typing experience that is likely to appeal to those who prefer a heavier touch. Whichever you choose, both switches promise enjoyable and satisfying typing experiences, with the choice ultimately depending on your personal preferences for sound profile and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, you should weigh your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and the overall typing experience you seek. If you prefer a lighter switch that strikes a balance between a responsive feel and substantial feedback, the Glimp is an excellent choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams allows for quick, effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. The clacky sound and creamy typing experience add an enjoyable auditory and tactile element, perfect if you appreciate a vibrant typing atmosphere. On the other hand, if you gravitate towards a more robust and pronounced feel, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, with its medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5 grams, provides a satisfying resistance that many typists find reassuring. The bright resonance of each keystroke offers an engaging sound, while the bouncy feel enhances your overall experience, making it suitable for those who like their switches to offer a bit more weight and feedback. Ultimately, your choice should reflect the typing experience that resonates with you, whether that's the lively responsiveness of the Glimp or the more deliberate engagement of the Lotus.
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