KTT Glimp vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that are often compared are the KTT Glimp and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry. The Glimp is a linear switch that strikes the perfect balance for those seeking a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. It offers a satisfying and responsive typing feel, thanks to its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force. Additionally, the Glimp switch has a fairly clacky sound profile, adding an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry is a tactile switch with a very sharp tactile bump. This makes it suitable for those who love a sharp typing feel. When typing on the Blueberry switches, you'll experience a lower-than-average sound frequency, giving it a deeper but not "thocky" sound profile. Overall, if you're looking for a linear switch with a satisfying feel and clacky sound, the Glimp is a great choice. If you prefer a tactile switch with a sharp bump and a deeper sound profile, the NovelKeys Blueberry may be the one for you. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Glimp Linear

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$3.84

$3.45 per 10

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry differ in terms of their top and bottom housings. The Glimp features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Blueberry utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. The POM material offers a unique sound experience that is different from the sharper sound of polycarbonate. However, both switches offer the advantage of translucency, making them suitable for use with RGB lighting.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Glimp employs a nylon material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Blueberry also uses a POM bottom housing, which offers a similar deep sound profile, though relatively more muted compared to nylon. Both housings contribute to creating a satisfying sound experience while typing.

Considering the impact of the different housing materials, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing in the Glimp will be felt when pressing down on the switch, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound upon bottoming out. In contrast, the top housing, whether polycarbonate or POM, affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, both switches provide a balance between the impact and release sound profiles, allowing for a dynamic and enjoyable typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, there are notable differences in their weight. The Glimp has a medium-light actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. In contrast, the Blueberry switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Glimp switch would be a suitable choice. Its lower actuation force allows for effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial and forceful typing feel might find the heavier actuation force of the Blueberry switch more appealing. Its higher actuation force provides a satisfying push feel, enhancing the overall typing experience.

When it comes to bottoming out, or pressing the key all the way down, the Glimp requires less force compared to the Blueberry switch. While the Glimp has a bottom out force of 53 grams, the exact bottom out force for the Blueberry switch is unknown. Nonetheless, it can be inferred that the Blueberry switch, being heavier in both actuation and bottom out force, would likely require a more substantial amount of force for complete key depression.

Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch depends on individual preference. Those who prioritize a lighter and more effortless typing experience may opt for the Glimp switch, while individuals seeking a stronger and more forceful keystroke may lean towards the Blueberry switch. Both switches offer distinct characteristics, ensuring users can find the desired typing feel for their specific needs.

Travel distance

The KTT Glimp linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent tactile experience in terms of travel distance, providing a comfortable typing or gaming experience for users. Whether you choose the Glimp or the Blueberry switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Glimp linear switch is best described as clacky. This means that it produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch has a low-pitched sound profile. This means that it offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It provides a clean and sharp sound profile that is immersive and resonant. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.

When it comes to feel, the KTT Glimp linear switch is described as creamy. This means that it offers a smooth and buttery typing experience. It feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, with each keystroke seamlessly melting into the switch. It also has a mild feel, which means it provides a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is described as snappy and buttery, offering a super responsive typing experience. It has a longer or dual-staged spring design, which makes the typing feel more alive. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the Blueberry switch is invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive feel for an immersive typing experience.

Based on the available information, the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch have several differences in terms of sound and feel. The Glimp switch is clacky and offers a creamy and mild typing experience, while the Blueberry switch has a low-pitched and resonant sound profile and a snappy, buttery, and invigorating feel. However, it's important to note that personal preferences play a significant role in determining the ideal switch for each individual. If you prefer a clacky sound and a creamy typing experience, the Glimp switch would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a low-pitched, resonant sound and a snappy, buttery, and invigorating feel, the Blueberry switch would be more suitable.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a satisfying typing experience and a clacky sound profile, the KTT Glimp linear switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a balanced actuation force and tactile feedback, making it comfortable to type on. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy switch with a sharp tactile bump and a lower-pitched sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch would be more suitable. It provides a unique typing feel and a clean, resonant sound. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing experience, sound profile, and actuation force.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Glimp Linear

$3.84

$3.45 per 10

Learn more

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more