KTT Glimp vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two remarkable mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Glimp and the KTT Phalaenopsis. The Glimp switch is a linear switch that strikes the perfect balance for those seeking a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. With its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, the Glimp switch offers a satisfying and responsive typing feel. Additionally, its fairly clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch is a tactile switch that features a light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue even during prolonged sessions. The 50g tactile force provides a satisfying and discernible tactile bump, ensuring each keystroke is a delightful experience. The Phalaenopsis switch has a beautiful translucent design that adds an aesthetic touch to your keyboard setup. While these general pointers give an overview of the two switches, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Glimp and the KTT Phalaenopsis have similar housing materials, with both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially advantageous for users planning to incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant and eye-catching effects. Therefore, both the Glimp and the Phalaenopsis offer a visually appealing and acoustically enhanced experience due to their shared top housing material.
However, the main difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Glimp features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a relatively softer plastic, which absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis uses polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, which maintains the sharper and crisper sound profile observed in the top housing. This variation in bottom housing material gives users a choice between a more resonant and impactful typing experience with the Glimp or a consistent sound profile throughout the switch with the Phalaenopsis.
When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing material will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that the nylon bottom housing of the Glimp will provide a distinct tactile and audible feedback when keys are pressed, creating a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing material will have a greater influence on the sound when keys are released. Both the Glimp and the Phalaenopsis, with their polycarbonate top housing, will offer a clearer and resonant sound when keys are let go, ensuring a satisfying auditory experience.
In conclusion, the Glimp and the Phalaenopsis share the benefits of using polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. The choice of housing material differentiates the two switches, with the Glimp incorporating a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound, while the Phalaenopsis maintains a consistent sound profile throughout the switch with polycarbonate. Both switches offer a pleasing auditory experience, and the specific housing materials bring unique attributes to the typing or gaming experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Glimp switch is slightly heavier than the Phalaenopsis switch. However, both switches fall within the lighter range, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience.
The actuation force of the Glimp switch is 43 grams, while the Phalaenopsis switch has an actuation force of 37 grams. This means that the Phalaenopsis switch requires slightly less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Glimp switch. However, both switches have relatively low actuation forces, allowing for quick and effortless keystrokes.
When it comes to the bottom out force, the Glimp switch requires 53 grams of force, while the Phalaenopsis switch requires 50 grams. This indicates that the Glimp switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the Phalaenopsis switch. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience and enjoy the feeling of pressing keys with more force, the Glimp switch would be the better choice.
Overall, while the Glimp and Phalaenopsis switches have some differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, both switches provide a lightweight typing experience. Users who prefer a lighter touch and effortless typing would find similar results with either switch. However, individuals looking for a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Glimp switch with its higher actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch refers to the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, which is the distance you feel when you press down on a key. Comparing the KTT Glimp linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance when using either of these switches.
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 Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis 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 Glimp switch is known for its clacky profile. This means that when pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy sound profile. This results in a deeper and richer sound during key presses, similar to the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the Phalaenopsis switch is described as thocky, which means it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound, resembling a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released.
In terms of feel, the Glimp switch provides a creamy typing experience. This is due to its smooth and buttery feel, which can be attributed to factors such as lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. Typing on a Glimp switch feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as each keystroke effortlessly melts into the next. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch is described as stepped. This means that it offers a mild tactile experience with two stages of feedback. You can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, providing a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics.
Based on the available information, the Glimp switch offers a clacky sound profile and a creamy typing feel, striking a balance between satisfying feedback and comfortable actuation force. It is suitable for those seeking a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch provides a bassy sound profile with a delightful tactile bump, offering an effortless typing experience with minimized finger fatigue. With its light actuation force and discernible feedback, the Phalaenopsis switch ensures each keystroke is a pleasant one.
In conclusion, the Glimp linear switch and the Phalaenopsis tactile switch have distinct subjective qualities. The Glimp switch provides a clacky sound and a creamy typing feel, while the Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy sound and a stepped tactile feel. These switches cater to different preferences, providing enjoyable and responsive typing experiences for newcomers. If you prefer a clacky sound and a creamy feel, the Glimp switch is the way to go. However, if you are drawn to a bassy sound and a mild tactile experience, the Phalaenopsis switch will deliver similar results. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-light switch with tactile feedback and a satisfying typing feel, the Glimp switch would be the right choice for you. Its clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you value effortless typing with minimal finger fatigue, the Phalaenopsis switch with its light actuation force and discernible tactile bump would be a delightful option. Additionally, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy sound profile, which adds a deep and rich sound experience. Ultimately, both switches provide unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, so it's important to consider your personal preferences when making a decision.
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