KTT Glimp vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Glimp and the KTT Pine offer two distinct options for users. The Glimp switch is a linear switch that strikes the perfect balance for those seeking a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. It provides satisfying tactile feedback and a comfortable actuation force, enhancing the typing feel. Additionally, the Glimp switch offers a fairly clacky sound profile, adding an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Pine switch is also a linear switch, but it offers a different experience. The Pine switch is medium-heavy, buttery smooth, and built for an effortless typing feel. It features a polished, factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction, ensuring smooth key travel. The Pine switch offers a bassy sound profile that adds a unique touch to your typing experience. 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Glimp and the KTT Pine both feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those seeking a more distinct auditory experience. Additionally, the top housing's translucency allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. Thus, whether you choose the Glimp or the Pine, you can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and the option to incorporate RGB lighting.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Glimp utilizes a nylon material, while the Pine utilizes a polycarbonate material. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its relatively softer composition, which absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Pine contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, mirroring the qualities of the top housing. As a result, pressing down on the Glimp switch will provide a different sound and feel compared to the Pine, as the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and tactile experience.
Overall, while the top housings of the KTT Glimp and the KTT Pine share similar qualities due to the use of polycarbonate, their bottom housings differ, leading to varying sound profiles and tactile sensations. Choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel. Whether you prioritize a sharper and crisper sound (Pine) or a deeper and fuller sound (Glimp), both switches offer unique options to enhance your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The Glimp has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Pine's 45 grams. This means that the Glimp requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Glimp has a slightly heavier force of 53 grams compared to the Pine's 58 grams. This means that the Glimp offers a slightly more substantial typing experience when fully pressed down.
In terms of weight considerations, the Glimp can be seen as lighter in terms of actuation force, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for prolonged periods of use or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Pine offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, which provides a stronger push feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience.
Overall, while the actuation forces differ slightly, both switches provide a similar medium-light to medium typing experience. The slight variations in force between the Glimp and the Pine allow individuals to choose the switch that aligns with their desired typing preferences.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Glimp linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the switch travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. The travel distance of both switches is equal, ensuring that you will get similar results in terms of the tactile feedback experienced while typing or gaming. Therefore, there is no distinction between the shorter or longer travel distance as both switches offer the same 4 mm travel distance.
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 Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine 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 produces a clacky sound. This means that when you press the keys, you will hear a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch offers a bassy sound profile. This means that the sound produced during key presses is deeper and richer, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It has a lower frequency range and a more mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a clacky sound, the Glimp switch would be a suitable choice, while if you prefer a bassier sound, the Pine switch would be a better option.
In terms of feel, the KTT Glimp linear switch offers a creamy typing experience. The switch is smooth and buttery, providing a silky sensation when typing. This can be attributed to the lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used. With the Glimp switch, you can expect a seamless and effortless keystroke experience, as your fingers glide across the keys with ease. It also has a mild typing experience, meaning it offers a more gentle sensation compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch also provides a buttery typing experience. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Similar to the Glimp switch, it has a creamy feel, with a silky sensation when typing. Both switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, with their smooth and buttery feel.
Based on the available information, the KTT Glimp linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch have distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Glimp switch offers a clacky sound profile, providing a crisp and bright sound during key presses. It has a creamy and mild typing feel, offering a smooth and gentle experience. On the other hand, the Pine switch offers a bassy sound profile, with a deeper and richer tone. It also has a creamy and buttery typing feel, resulting in a smooth and effortless keystroke experience. Overall, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but with different sound and feel characteristics. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, you can choose the switch that best suits your typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT Glimp or the KTT Pine linear switch, it is important to take into account your personal preferences for typing experience. If you are seeking a medium-light switch with tactile feedback and a satisfying typing feel, the Glimp switch would be an excellent choice. Its medium-light bottom out force and clacky sound profile add to its enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch that offers a buttery smooth and effortless typing experience, the Pine switch would be a great fit. With its translucent, forest green design and low-pitched, bassy sound profile, the Pine switch offers a unique and relaxing typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to your desired level of resistance and sound profile.
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