KTT Glimp vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, a clear distinction can be made based on their key characteristics. The Glimp switch is renowned for its medium-light touch, providing a satisfying typing experience with tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura offers a snappy response and buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility without being overpowering. While the Glimp switch delivers a clacky sound profile, the Purple Sakura presents a mild and neutral sound signature. Each switch has its unique qualities that appeal to different preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura are quite similar, both utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard. In terms of sound and aesthetics, these two switches are likely to provide a comparable experience due to their shared top housing material.
However, where the Glimp and the Purple Sakura differ is in their bottom housing material. The Glimp features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This leads to a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper tone produced by the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, ensuring that both switches offer a similar typing experience with regards to the bottom-out sound and feel.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the KTT Glimp and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura results in a well-rounded typing experience. While the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. This balance of materials ensures that users of both switches will enjoy a mix of sharp, crisp tones and deeper, fuller sounds, creating a dynamic typing experience with each keystroke.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch have some differences. The Glimp has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Purple Sakura has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Glimp is lighter overall in terms of force required for both actuation and bottom out, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura provides a slightly heavier typing feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches fall under the medium range, with the Glimp being on the lighter side and the Purple Sakura on the heavier side. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Purple Sakura has a shorter travel distance compared to the Glimp. The shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm on the Purple Sakura may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the 4 mm travel distance of the Glimp may offer a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feeling. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and key press feel.
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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Glimp linear switch is described as having a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, adding a certain crisp and bright element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a neutral sound signature, offering a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various environments. Both switches provide different auditory experiences, with the Glimp being more lively and percussive, while the Purple Sakura is more subdued and adaptable.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Glimp linear switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels effortless and luxurious. The moderately mild characteristic of the switch ensures a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch is also described as buttery and mild, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation with a gentle touch. Additionally, the switch is noted for its snappy response, making typing feel more responsive and lively compared to the Glimp.
Overall, both the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Glimp provides a more clacky and creamy typing experience, with a medium-light actuation force that strikes a balance between tactile feedback and resistance. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura offers a neutral sound profile and a buttery downstroke, with a snappy response that makes typing feel more dynamic. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on the specific preferences of the user, whether they prefer a livelier and more tactile typing experience with the Glimp, or a smoother and more uniform sensation with the Purple Sakura.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a medium-light switch with tactile feedback and a clacky sound profile, the Glimp may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with a buttery downstroke, pronounced tactility, and a mild and neutral sound signature, the Purple Sakura switch is worth considering. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and switch characteristics.
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