KTT Glimp vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Glimp and the Akko Penguin offer distinctive experiences tailored to different preferences. The Glimp switch presents a medium-light linear option with tactile feedback and a comfortable actuation force, delivering a satisfying typing feel with a fairly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Penguin switch from Akko introduces a tactile alternative, designed for silent typing in office environments with its rounded tactile bump and medium weight. While the Glimp switch leans towards a more audible and responsive typing experience, the Penguin switch prioritizes quietness and comfort. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Akko Penguin differ in terms of the materials used for their top and bottom housings. The Glimp features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Penguin uses a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to the same deeper and fuller sound profile.
While the top housings of the Glimp and Penguin switches have different materials, they both play a significant role in the overall sound profile of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Glimp produces a clear and resonant sound, particularly suitable for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Penguin offers a duller and rounder sound, providing a unique typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches aim to enhance the user's auditory experience through their top housing materials.
The impact of the housing materials on the sound and feel of the switches can be felt differently depending on whether it is the top or bottom housing. The bottom housing of a switch, where the nylon material is used in both the Glimp and Penguin, influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed. Conversely, the top housing, whether it is polycarbonate in the Glimp or nylon in the Penguin, affects the sound when the key is released. Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound profile for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, we can see that both have an actuation force of 43 grams. However, the Glimp has a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it lighter than the Penguin, which has a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Glimp provides a medium-light typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Penguin offers a slightly heavier feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push when pressing the keys. Both switches offer a similar actuation force, ensuring that users will get consistent results in terms of triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the Glimp and Penguin switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Glimp offers a slightly longer travel distance, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper press when typing. On the other hand, the Penguin provides a shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Glimp being on the longer side and the Penguin on the shorter side. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing depth and responsiveness.
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 Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
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 produces a clacky sound, giving a sharp and snappy typing experience that is both satisfying and engaging. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch offers a muted sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing session, particularly in office environments. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and settings. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen, so it's essential to consider the overall setup when selecting a switch based on sound preferences.
In terms of feel, the KTT Glimp linear switch provides a creamy typing experience, characterized by a smooth and buttery sensation with each keystroke, which can enhance typing comfort and efficiency. Meanwhile, the Akko Penguin tactile switch offers a polished feel, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience, ideal for those who prefer reduced friction and effortless key travel. Both switches offer a mild typing experience, making them approachable to most users and suitable for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. Additionally, the Akko Penguin tactile switch offers a feathery feel, which is exceptionally light to press and reduces finger strain, perfect for prolonged use during gaming or work sessions.
Overall, the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing environments. Whether you prefer a clacky typing experience with a satisfying tactile bump or a muted, quiet typing session with smooth key travel, both switches provide a balance of responsiveness and comfort. It's important to consider personal preferences, typing habits, and the overall typing setup when choosing between these switches to ensure an optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, consider your personal preferences and typing environment. If you value a tactile feedback with a medium-light actuation force and enjoy a clacky sound profile, the Glimp switch would be a great choice for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a quiet and tactile switch with a medium actuation force that is suitable for office settings, the Akko Penguin switch would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing style, sound preference, and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. Choose the switch that best fits your needs and enjoy a comfortable and responsive typing experience.
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