KTT Glimp vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the KTT Glimp and the SP-Star Polaris Purple. The Glimp is a linear switch that strikes the perfect balance for those seeking a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. It offers tactile feedback and a comfortable actuation force, providing a satisfying and responsive typing feel. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple is a tactile switch that boasts a big tactile bump, delivering an exhilarating typing experience. The sound profile of the Polaris Purple is described as snappy. While these brief descriptions give you a general idea of what each switch offers, 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
67g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Glimp and Polaris Purple both utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, resulting in a similar sound profile. The use of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows for a clear and resonant sound. It is also worth noting that both switches have translucent top housings, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches offer a visually pleasing experience while producing a distinct sound.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Glimp and Polaris Purple diverge. The Glimp features a nylon bottom housing, which yields a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Polaris Purple utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, ensuring a sharper and higher-pitched tone. The difference in bottom housing materials means that the Glimp offers a more muffled and subdued sound upon bottoming out, while the Polaris Purple produces a crisp and impactful sound.
In terms of the overall user experience, the bottom housing has a more noticeable effect when pressing down on the switch. The qualities of the bottom housing material, whether it's nylon or polycarbonate, greatly influence the sound and feel when a key is pressed. The top housing, on the other hand, plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Thus, depending on personal preference and typing style, users may prefer the Glimp for its softer and deeper bottom-out sound, or the Polaris Purple for its sharper and clearer sound when the key is released.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams, providing a medium-light touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Polaris Purple's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Glimp requires 53 grams, while the Polaris Purple demands a heavier 67 grams. This makes the Polaris Purple a medium-heavy option for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel and wish to type for longer periods may find the Glimp to be a suitable choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a stronger push and desire a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Polaris Purple, given its heavier bottom out force. Regardless of their differences, both switches offer various options for individuals to achieve their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, these two switches offer the same experience. Whether you choose the Glimp or the Polaris Purple, you can expect to feel a consistent 4 mm travel distance when pressing down on a key. With this similarity in mind, both switches provide a reliable and uniform typing experience for users.
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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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 stands out for its clacky profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This crisp and bright sound adds an enjoyable auditory element to typing sessions. The Polaris Purple, on the other hand, is described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it offers a moderate sound that is suitable for most intents and purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to feel, the Glimp switch provides a creamy typing experience. This means that it offers a smooth and buttery feel while typing, as if effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys. The switch's creamy sensation can be attributed to either having lubricant applied at the factory or specific materials used. Additionally, the Glimp switch falls into the mild category, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Its qualities all stand in a safe, middle-ground zone. The Polaris Purple, similarly, falls into the mild category, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It also boasts a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Glimp linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Glimp switch has a clacky sound profile and a creamy, mild feel, providing a satisfying and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch features a snappy, neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel, offering an exhilarating tactile typing experience. While both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement, they differ in terms of their sound and feel characteristics. Depending on personal preferences and requirements, users can choose the switch that aligns better with their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a medium-light switch that provides a satisfying and responsive typing experience without overwhelming resistance, the KTT Glimp linear switch is a great choice. It strikes a perfect balance with its tactile feedback and actuation force, and its clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a big tactile bump, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is the way to go. Its exhilarating tactile typing experience and snappy sound profile make it stand out. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you desire.
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