KTT Glimp vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are many factors to consider. Two popular options are the KTT Glimp, a linear switch, and the Kailh Plum, a tactile switch. The Glimp switch is best known for offering a medium-light typing experience that strikes the perfect balance between responsiveness and resistance. With its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, typists can enjoy a satisfying and smooth typing feel. The fairly clacky sound profile of the Glimp switch also adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Plum switch offers a unique experience with its hefty feel and minimal tactile bump. Unlike many other tactile switches, the Plum switch proves that tactility and weightiness are not always correlated. The sound profile of the Plum switch is neutral, making it an enjoyable choice for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Glimp and the Kailh Plum both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to the translucency of polycarbonate, these switches are especially suitable for using RGB lighting, as the light will shine through the housing, creating a visually appealing effect. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate also ensures a clear and resonant sound profile. Therefore, whether you choose the Glimp or the Plum, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic appeal.
In contrast, the Glimp has a nylon bottom housing, while the Plum also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that provides a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic compared to harder plastics, allowing it to absorb more sound. As a result, the bottom housing of both the Glimp and the Plum contribute to a duller and rounder sound. When pressing down on these switches, you can expect to feel the qualities of the bottom housing, as it has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel.
It's important to note that when the top and bottom housings are different in a switch, the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. Thus, the sound when you let go of a key will be influenced more by the top housing, while the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the overall sound and feel when pressing down. So, while the Glimp and the Plum have similar polycarbonate top housings, they differ in terms of their nylon bottom housings, which may result in variations in the overall sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, there are notable differences between the two. The actuation force of the Glimp is relatively light at 43 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Plum is unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Glimp requires 53 grams of force, which is also considered medium-light. In contrast, the Plum has a bottom out force of 70 grams, indicating a medium-heavy touch.
Considering weight as an important factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Glimp switch, as its actuation and bottom out forces are on the lighter side. This lighter weight allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue, which is ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. However, for individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Plum switch with its heavier bottom out force may be a better choice. It provides a more tactile and satisfying typing experience while requiring a slightly higher force to bottom out.
Overall, while both switches have different actuation and bottom out forces, each can offer a unique typing experience based on an individual's preferences. The Glimp is lighter in comparison, providing a comfortable and swift typing experience, while the Plum offers a heavier touch for those who desire a more pronounced and substantial keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is clear that the Glimp has a longer travel distance of 4.0mm compared to the Plum's 3.6mm. The Glimp's 4.0mm travel distance falls into the more traditional range, providing a deeper and more satisfying press. On the other hand, the Plum's shorter travel distance of 3.6mm is preferred by gamers looking for quicker response times. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference - those seeking a more responsive typing experience will gravitate towards the Plum with its shorter travel distance, while individuals looking for a more substantial feel may opt for the Glimp with its longer 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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 per 10 switches.
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 KTT Glimp linear switch is best described as clacky. This means that when you press the switch, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as neutral. This means that it has a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using the switch at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also affected by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps you choose to use.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Glimp linear switch offers a creamy typing experience. This means that the switch provides a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. It could be due to lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used in the switch. Typing on the Glimp switch feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, as they melt into each keystroke. The Glimp switch is also described as having a mild feel, which means it offers a gentle typing experience without pronounced characteristics. This makes it approachable to most users, as its qualities fall within a safe, middle-ground zone.
On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is also described as having a mild feel. Similar to the Glimp switch, it offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. However, the Plum switch has a unique characteristic called stepped. This means that it has a two-stage tactile feel, where you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during the keystroke. This sets it apart from other tactile switches, as most others have a more pronounced tactile bump.
In conclusion, the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Glimp switch has a clacky sound profile, while the Plum switch has a neutral sound profile. In terms of feel, the Glimp switch provides a creamy and mild typing experience, while the Plum switch offers a mild feel with a stepped characteristic. It's important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches. Both switches offer satisfying and responsive typing experiences, but will produce different results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a substantial typing experience and tactile feedback, the KTT Glimp switch would be a great choice. With its comfortable actuation force and clacky sound profile, it offers a satisfying and responsive typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch that feels hefty but doesn't have a pronounced tactile bump, the Kailh Plum switch is perfect for you. The Plum switch is unique in its weightiness without sacrificing the overall typing experience. It also has a neutral sound profile that many find enjoyable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on your preference for actuation force, typing experience, and sound profile. Both switches are suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and can be used at home or work. In the end, it's important to consider your personal preferences and find the switch that suits your typing style and requirements.
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