KTT Glimp vs. Gateron Mars
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Mars switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Glimp and Gateron Mars provide distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The KTT Glimp is a versatile linear switch that delivers a medium-light actuation force, ensuring a comfortable and responsive typing experience. Its tactile feedback, combined with a clacky sound profile, makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritize both feel and auditory enjoyment during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Mars, featuring an innovative POK stem and a durable housing crafted from a blend of Nylon and POM, offers a smoother and more consistent keystroke. This switch may appeal to those who seek a streamlined, quieter typing experience while still enjoying the benefits of a linear switch. Both options have their unique characteristics: the Glimp for its satisfying sound and tactile feedback, and the Mars for its innovative design and smoothness. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Glimp and Gateron Mars switches, there is a noticeable divergence in their top housings, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The Glimp features a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This characteristic arises from polycarbonate's stiffer nature, making it resonate more clearly. Additionally, the transparency of polycarbonate lends itself well to RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of a keyboard. In contrast, the Gateron Mars is equipped with a nylon top housing, which fosters a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This softness enables nylon to absorb more sound waves, resulting in a more muted and rounded auditory experience.
The differences extend to the bottom housing materials of the switches as well. The KTT Glimp has a nylon bottom housing, mirroring the sound-absorbing qualities seen in its top housing. This consistency helps to amplify the deeper, fuller sound signature typically associated with nylon. Conversely, the Gateron Mars utilizes a POM bottom housing, which contributes its unique, muted sound quality to the overall auditory experience. POM, known for its durability, creates a richer yet still subdued acoustic profile, setting it apart from the rounded sound produced by nylon. This disparity between the bottom housings suggests that each switch will deliver distinct tactile feedback and sound profiles when pressed down, lending a set of characteristics that are unique to each model.
In summary, the contrasting materials used in the top and bottom housings of the KTT Glimp and Gateron Mars switches lead to varied sound outcomes and tactile experiences while typing. The Glimp's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom work together to provide a bright and resonant sound, whereas the Mars's nylon top and POM bottom create a more muted, deeper acoustic profile. However, if both switches had the same type of housing material—either both employing polycarbonate or nylon for both the top and the bottom layouts—they would produce more similar auditory results, underscoring the vital role housing materials play in defining the switches' overall characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, we find some interesting differences. The Glimp switch has a specified actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light and making it suitable for extended typing sessions due to its relatively lighter force. In contrast, the Gateron Mars switch features an actuation force of 45 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Glimp. However, its bottom out force remains unspecified. This means that while the Glimp is lighter overall and ideal for users seeking comfort during prolonged use, the Mars, with its heavier actuation force, might offer a more substantial feel for those who prefer a stronger tactile experience. The fact that the bottom out force for the Mars is unknown leaves some uncertainty in how it would compare when fully pressed down, but if the bottom out force aligns similarly, users might achieve comparable typing results. Overall, the KTT Glimp is the lighter option, while the Gateron Mars leans toward a heavier feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, it is clear that they differ significantly. The Glimp has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is on the traditional side, offering a more substantial depth that some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Mars switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, appealing to those who enjoy quicker response times, particularly gamers. While both switches cater to different preferences in tactile feedback, the Glimp provides a longer travel distance, making it suitable for users who appreciate more pronounced actuation. On the other hand, the Mars switch enables faster key presses but may feel too abrupt for some users who favor a deeper keystroke. Thus, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Gateron Mars linear switch may be your best choice, while the KTT Glimp is ideal for a more traditional, hearty typing sensation.
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 Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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 comparing the sound profile of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, the Glimp exhibits a notably clacky quality, producing sharp and snappy sounds that are crisp and bright. This makes it an enjoyable choice for users who appreciate auditory feedback from their typing experience. The clacky sound profile can be particularly satisfying during intense typological sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Gateron Mars switches remain unknown, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons. Therefore, users seeking a definitive auditory experience might lean towards the Glimp, given its established clacky signature.
In terms of feel, the Glimp provides a creamy typing sensation described as smooth and buttery, allowing for a delightful gliding motion with each keystroke. This premium feel is likely enhanced by quality materials or factory-applied lubricant, presenting a typing experience that many would find luxurious and effortless. The Glimp’s mild characteristics suggest it caters to a broad audience, ensuring an approachable feel for typing novices and seasoned typists alike. In contrast, the feel of the Gateron Mars is also currently unknown, leaving potential users unsure about how it may stack up against the established standards set by the Glimp.
Overall, while the KTT Glimp linear switch provides clear benefits in both sound and feel, particularly with its clacky auditory profile and creamy typing experience, the Gateron Mars switches leave some aspects to the imagination. For newcomers navigating their switch choices, the Glimp clearly stands out with its satisfying tactile features. However, the lack of information on the Mars means that, while users might be drawn to its innovative design, they may need to try it themselves to fully appreciate its qualities. Ultimately, if sound and feel are prioritized highly in your typing experience, the KTT Glimp might prove to be the safer and more informed option.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch boils down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you lean towards a switch that offers a medium-light actuation force, a satisfying clacky sound, and a creamy, smooth typing experience, the Glimp is an excellent choice for you. It's particularly well-suited for those who appreciate tactile feedback in their keystrokes and enjoy an engaging auditory element during typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you are drawn to innovative designs and prioritize a unique feel and configuration, the Gateron Mars might align better with your desires. While specifics about its bottom-out force and sound are less defined, the Mars's specialized POK stem and housing materials suggest a distinctive feel that can appeal to those looking for something different in their typing experience. Ultimately, consider the atmosphere in which you'll be using the keyboard and whether you favor an established auditory feedback versus exploring new switch designs. Your choice should reflect your typing style and the kind of experience you want from your mechanical keyboard.
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