KTT Glimp vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver

Overview

When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Glimp and the Cherry MX Speed Silver are both enticing options to consider. The Glimp switch is renowned for its medium-light feel that strikes a perfect balance for those who want a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. With tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, the Glimp switch offers a satisfying and responsive typing feel, accompanied by a fairly clacky sound profile that adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver stands out for its rapid response within the MX switch lineup, featuring a full height for maximum speed. Its linear action and low spring resistance allow for instant triggering, making it a crucial choice for gamers seeking every competitive edge. While the Glimp switch excels in providing a creamy and neutral typing experience, the MX Speed Silver offers a textured and low-pitched feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Glimp Linear

Cherry MX Speed Silver Linear

$3.84

$3.45 per 10

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, it is clear that both switches use nylon for their bottom housing. The use of nylon in switch housings creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and ability to absorb sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. In terms of the top housing, however, the Glimp utilizes polycarbonate while the MX Speed Silver uses nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Glimp creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for enhancing RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver generates a deeper and fuller sound profile, contributing to a more traditional typing experience.

Despite the differences in top housing materials, both the KTT Glimp and the Cherry MX Speed Silver provide a unique typing experience with their blend of nylon bottom housing. The nylon material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that creates a smooth typing experience. However, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon for the top housing can greatly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch. The Glimp's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound when pressing down on a key, while the MX Speed Silver's nylon top housing contributes to a more rounded sound when releasing a key.

Ultimately, the housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Cherry MX Speed Silver play a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, the difference in top housing materials results in distinct sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the Glimp creates a clear and resonant sound, ideal for RGB lighting effects, while the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver offers a deeper and fuller sound profile for a traditional typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique combination of housing materials.

Weight

The KTT Glimp linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Cherry MX Speed Silver's lighter actuation force of 30 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Glimp requires 53 grams while the MX Speed Silver has an unknown bottom out force. The Glimp provides a medium-light typing experience, while the MX Speed Silver offers a lighter touch. Some users may prefer the Glimp for its slightly heavier feel, which can provide a more substantial typing experience, while others may opt for the MX Speed Silver for its lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force required.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that the MX Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance at 3.4 mm compared to the Glimp's 4 mm. The difference of 0.6 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and performance of the switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the MX Speed Silver with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper feel when typing may lean towards the Glimp. Both switches offer a similar linear experience, but the slight variation in travel distance can make a difference in the user's typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Glimp linear switch is known for its fairly clacky sound profile, which produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, adding a crisp and bright auditory element to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch is described as thocky, producing a deep and rich sound when pressed and released. The low-pitched nature of the MX Speed Silver offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to the Glimp. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.

Moving on to the feel, the KTT Glimp linear switch is recognized for its creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation that feels like effortlessly gliding fingers across the keys with ease. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch is noted for its textured feel, which may provide noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer this subtle texture, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. The Glimp switch falls under the mild category, providing a gentle typing experience suitable for a wide range of users.

In conclusion, the KTT Glimp linear switch and Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Glimp switch provides a clacky sound profile and a creamy typing experience, the MX Speed Silver switch offers a thocky sound and a textured feel. Both switches have their strengths and may cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience desired. Whether you opt for the Glimp or the MX Speed Silver, you can expect a satisfying and responsive typing experience tailored to your preferences.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Glimp linear switch or the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a medium-light switch with tactile feedback, a clacky sound profile, and a creamy typing feel, then the Glimp switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed with instant linear action, a thocky sound profile, and a textured typing feel, then the MX Speed Silver switch might be more suitable, especially for gaming applications where speed is critical. Both switches have their unique strengths, so make sure to consider your priorities before making a decision. Ultimately, your choice will depend on what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Glimp Linear

$3.84

$3.45 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Speed Silver Linear

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

Learn more