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KTT Glimp vs. KTT Orange

An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Glimp and the KTT Orange. The Glimp switch is known for striking the perfect balance between a substantial typing experience and manageable resistance. With its tactile feedback, comfortable actuation force, and fairly clacky sound profile, the Glimp switch offers a satisfying and enjoyable typing feel. On the other hand, the Orange switch stands out with its bouncy type feel, thanks to a 22mm long spring. It provides a slick and frictionless typing experience, accompanied by a low-pitched sound profile. With its excellent factory-lubing, the Orange switch ensures a refined and smooth key travel. Both switches have their unique characteristics and benefits that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision based on your specific needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

43g

Actuation force

46g

Bottom-out force

53g

Bottom-out force

53g

Pre-travel

1.90 mm

Pre-travel

1.90 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Total travel

3.50 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

Polycarbonate

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Polycarbonate

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

18mm spring

Spring

22mm gold-plated spring

Housing materials

The KTT Glimp and the KTT Orange both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, its translucency allows for the inclusion of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. Therefore, whether you choose the Glimp or the Orange, you can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and visual customization.

Where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Glimp incorporates nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, producing a duller and rounder sound. This gives the Glimp a unique tactile experience that is distinct from the Orange.

In contrast, the Orange uses polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. As mentioned before, polycarbonate provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. With the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Orange, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is more pronounced. Pressing down on the Orange switch will yield a distinct and resonant sound, further enhancing the typing experience. However, the switch may not offer the same level of depth and fullness as the Glimp due to the absence of nylon in its bottom housing.

In summary, both the KTT Glimp and the KTT Orange share the benefits of using polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharp and clear sound profile, as well as the option for RGB lighting. The Glimp stands out with its nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound during typing. On the other hand, the Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing emphasizes the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, but may lack the same level of richness as the Glimp. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for sound and tactile experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, some similarities and differences arise. Both switches have the same bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a similar level of resistance when fully pressed down. This ensures a consistent typing experience when it comes to the amount of force required to fully engage the keys.

However, when it comes to actuation force, there is a slight variation between the two switches. The KTT Glimp linear switch has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the KTT Orange linear switch has an actuation force of 46 grams. This means that the KTT Orange switch requires slightly more force to trigger a keystroke compared to the KTT Glimp switch.

Considering weight, it is worth noting that both switches fall under the category of medium-light switches in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. This makes them suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter feel while typing for extended periods of time. With these switches, users can enjoy longer typing sessions without experiencing excessive fatigue in their fingers.

Ultimately, the slight variation in actuation force between the KTT Glimp and Orange switches may lead to a slightly different typing experience. The KTT Glimp switch, with its lighter actuation force, might provide a slightly more responsive and effortless typing experience compared to the KTT Orange switch. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch, with its slightly heavier actuation force, might offer a slightly more substantial and deliberate typing experience.

Overall, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences. Those seeking a lighter typing experience might opt for the KTT Glimp linear switch, while those desiring a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the KTT Orange linear switch.

Travel distance

The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from top to bottom when pressed. In the case of the KTT Glimp linear switch, it has a travel distance of 4 mm. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Glimp with its 4 mm travel distance falls into the more traditional range, while the Orange with its 3.5 mm distance is on the shallower side.

In recent times, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel when typing or gaming, opting for the shorter travel distance of the Orange switch could be a good choice. However, some individuals find short travel distances to feel abrupt, and may prefer a switch with a longer travel distance for a more satisfying typing experience.

Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Glimp and the KTT Orange linear switch comes down to personal preference. Considering factors such as typing style, gaming requirements, and individual sensitivity to key depth can help determine whether the shorter travel distance of the Orange or the longer travel distance of the Glimp is the better fit.

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 KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange 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

In terms of sound, the Glimp switch is best described as clacky. Its sharp and snappy sound adds a crisp, bright, and percussive element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Orange switch has a low-pitched sound profile. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

When it comes to feel, the Glimp switch is known for its creamy typing experience. This means that it offers a smooth and buttery sensation while typing, as if your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys. It achieves this through factory lubrication and specific materials. In contrast, the Orange switch offers a bouncy feel. This provides a spring-like, elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Orange switch is described as frictionless, meaning it minimizes any sense of resistance or friction during key presses, resulting in a fluid and effortless typing experience.

Considering the available information, the Glimp switch offers a satisfying typing experience with its tactile feedback, moderate actuation force, and clacky sound profile. It strikes a balance for users seeking a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. On the other hand, the Orange switch provides a slick, frictionless typing experience with its bouncy feel, low-pitched sound profile, and excellent factory-lubing. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a pleasant and responsive typing experience. If you are looking for a similar typing experience, you can expect similar results from these switches as they share qualities such as a moderate actuation force and a sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes.

Conclusion

In summary, the KTT Glimp linear switch is a great choice for those seeking a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. With its medium-light bottom out force and tactile feedback, it offers a satisfying and responsive typing feel. Additionally, the clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch is best for those who prefer a bouncy and frictionless typing experience. Its 22mm long spring provides a lively and elastic feedback sensation, while the low-pitched sound profile adds a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches have their own unique qualities and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a creamy and mild feel with a neutral sound, the Glimp would be a good choice. However, if you want a bouncy and frictionless feel with a low-pitched sound, the Orange would be more suitable.

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