KTT Glimp vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Glimp and the HC Studio Roselle mechanical keyboard switches, both switches offer a unique typing experience suitable for different preferences. The Glimp switch is characterized by its medium-light feel, tactile feedback, and clacky sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a satisfying and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Roselle switch stands out for its smooth and ethereally wispy sensation, coupled with a subtle, low-pitched sound signature, appealing to those who prioritize smoothness and a quieter typing experience. While the Glimp switch offers a balance between typing experience and resistance, the Roselle switch emphasizes smoothness and low noise levels. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Glimp and Roselle both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The Glimp's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp, higher-pitched sound, while the Roselle's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. In terms of aesthetic appeal, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting, whereas POM provides a more solid look. Both materials offer distinct sound profiles, catering to different preferences for typing experiences.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Glimp's nylon material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, while the Roselle's POM bottom housing offers a similar deep and muted sound. While the nylon absorbs more sound and creates a rounder tone, the POM material maintains a consistent deep sound profile. Despite the difference in materials, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with unique characteristics that appeal to different users.
Overall, the choice between the Glimp and Roselle housing materials will depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback. The Glimp's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a contrast in sound profiles between the top and bottom housing, offering a dynamic typing experience. On the other hand, the Roselle's consistent POM housing materials provide a more uniform sound profile throughout the switch. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, more muted tone, both switches offer quality options for users seeking a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Glimp linear switch to the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is clear that both switches fall within the medium-light category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Glimp has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Roselle's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Glimp requires 53 grams while the Roselle only needs 52 grams. This difference in forces is subtle, but it may be noticeable to users who are sensitive to the feel of their keyboard switches. In terms of weight, the Glimp can be considered the lighter option, which may appeal to users looking for extended typing or gaming sessions without experiencing fatigue. On the other hand, the Roselle offers a slightly heavier push feel, which may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer it. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar typing experience with minor differences in actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Glimp being on the longer side and the Roselle being on the shorter side. Gamers may prefer the Roselle for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Glimp. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing 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 HC Studio Roselle has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Roselle for $4.70.
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 has a clacky profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound that adds a sense of dynamism to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offers a low-pitched sound signature, giving off a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Both switches are categorized as having a neutral sound profile, making them versatile options suitable for various environments and personal preferences. Depending on your choice of keyboard and keycaps, you can expect to hear either a lively clack or a mellower tone while typing.
Moving on to feel, the Glimp switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys. With a mild typing feel, the Glimp switch strikes a balance between comfort and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Roselle switch is labeled as frictionless, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. Like the Glimp, the Roselle switch also falls under the mild category, ensuring a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. Whether you prefer a creamy sensation or a frictionless travel, both switches aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, while the KTT Glimp linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offer slightly different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer a clacky sound with a creamy feel or a low-pitched sound with a frictionless sensation, both switches aim to cater to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a medium-light typing experience with a good balance between tactile feedback, actuation force, and overall comfort.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a tactile feedback and louder sound profile, the Glimp switch may be the better choice for you. Its medium-light bottom out force and clacky sound make typing a satisfying and auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer an incredibly smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Roselle switch might be more suitable. Its frictionless feel and subtle, bassy sound signature provide a unique typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value tactile feedback and clackiness (Glimp) or smoothness and a bassy sound (Roselle) in your mechanical keyboard switch. Choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences and enjoy a customized typing experience.
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