KTT Glimp vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Glimp and the Cherry Nixie stand out as popular options within the community. The Glimp switch offers a medium-light touch that strikes a balance for those looking for a satisfying typing experience with tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force. Its clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixies are revered classics known for their substantial heft and textured typing experience, incorporating updated materials and springs for a blend of tradition and modern innovation. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the KTT Glimp and the Cherry Nixie feature nylon bottom housings, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with stiffer plastic bottom housings. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches showcases a classic switch housing material that prioritizes a more muted sound experience.
In contrast, the Glimp features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic contributes to a more clear and resonant sound compared to the Nixie's nylon top housing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch that the Nixie may not provide with its opaque nylon top housing.
While both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their top and bottom housing materials, the Glimp's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a contrast in sound between the sharpness of the top housing and the depth of the bottom housing. In comparison, the Nixie maintains consistency in sound between its nylon top and bottom housings, resulting in a cohesive sound experience throughout the keystroke. Despite these differences, both switches ultimately aim to provide users with a satisfying typing experience tailored to their preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences between the two. The Glimp has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, while the Nixie requires a heavier 63.5 grams to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the Glimp again proves to be lighter at 53 grams compared to the Nixie's 80 grams. This means that the Glimp switch provides a smoother typing experience with less force required, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended periods of typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Nixie switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation and bottom out force, catering to users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, their travel distances are exactly the same, providing a consistent typing experience for users. With both switches offering a 4 mm travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and overall typing experience. The similarity in travel distance indicates that both switches will require the same amount of force to actuate and bottom out, resulting in a consistent typing feel regardless of which switch is used.
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 Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.15.
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 linear switch is known for its clacky profile, offering a sharp and snappy sound that adds a satisfying auditory element to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch produces a thocky sound, characterized by a deep and rich tone that provides a satisfying typing experience. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the Glimp will give a more clacky sound experience, whereas the Nixie will produce a thocky and low-pitched tone.
In terms of feel, the KTT Glimp linear switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a mild feel that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. On the contrary, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its textured feel, which provides noticeable friction when pressed. While the Glimp offers a silky sensation and a gentle typing experience, the Nixie introduces a more tactile and textured feel for those who prefer a bit of resistance and feedback when typing.
Considering all the available information, if you prefer a medium-light switch with tactile feedback, a clacky sound profile, and a creamy typing experience, the KTT Glimp linear switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a substantial heft with a deep thocky sound, textured feel, and a blend of tradition with modern innovation, the Cherry Nixie linear switch would be the more suitable option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Glimp linear switch or the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-light switch with a tactile feedback and clacky sound profile, the Glimp may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with a textured typing experience and thocky, low-pitched sound profile, the Nixie could be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what aspects of typing experience are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Glimp and Nixie switches will depend on your individual preferences and typing needs.
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