KTT Glimp vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Mini i offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Glimp is a linear switch that provides a medium-light typing experience with tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying and responsive typing feel. On the other hand, the Mini i is a tactile switch that offers gentle tactility in each keystroke, ideal for long hours of comfortable typing without the intrusive clack. While the Glimp switch leans towards a clacky and creamy sound profile, the Mini i maintains a fairly muted sound profile, suitable for office environments. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different needs and 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
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Mini i, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and produces a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that users of both switches can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the sound produced when pressing down on the keys.
On the other hand, the top housing materials of the Glimp and the Mini i differ, with the Glimp featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the Mini i utilizing a nylon top housing. The Glimp's polycarbonate top housing is known to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. In contrast, the Mini i's nylon top housing is described as producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. This distinction in top housing materials suggests that there will be noticeable differences in the sound and feel of typing between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches like the Glimp and the Mini i plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While both switches share a common nylon bottom housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound, their top housing materials set them apart - with the Glimp's polycarbonate top housing offering a sharper and crisper sound, and the Mini i's nylon top housing providing a deeper and rounder tone. Ultimately, these differences in housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and sound profile of each switch, catering to different preferences and preferences for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch present some key differences. The Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In comparison, the Mini i has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is lighter overall. The Gateron Mini i is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the KTT Glimp. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gateron Mini i would be the better option, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions with less fatigue. On the other hand, the KTT Glimp offers a slightly heavier typing experience that some users may find more satisfying for a firmer keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Mini i the shorter travel distance option compared to the Glimp. The Glimp offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Mini i provides a shallower feel. Gamers may prefer the Mini i for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Glimp. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience desired.
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 Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, the Glimp switch offers a clacky experience with a sharp and snappy sound that adds a crisp and bright element to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Mini i switch provides a more neutral sound profile that is moderate and suitable for various environments. Both switches offer a pleasing auditory experience, with the Glimp being on the clackier side and the Mini i providing a more subdued sound that doesn't compromise the feedback of typing.
When it comes to feel, the Glimp switch offers a creamy and smooth typing experience that feels buttery and luxurious. In contrast, the Mini i switch provides a bouncy and elastic feedback that gives keys a lively feel with a spring-like sensation. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Glimp being mild and easy on the fingers, while the Mini i provides a more interactive and responsive typing feel.
In conclusion, the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Glimp switch presents a clackier sound profile and a creamy typing experience, the Mini i switch offers a more neutral sound and a bouncy and responsive feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing sensation, both switches provide satisfying options for users looking to enhance their keyboarding experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on the individual's preference for sound and feel in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with tactile feedback and a clacky sound profile, the KTT Glimp linear switch would be a great choice for a substantial typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a light switch with gentle tactility and a muted sound profile, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is ideal for long hours of comfortable typing in a quiet office setting. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities to enhance your typing experience, so choose based on your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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