KTT Glimp vs. Kailh Sage

Overview

The KTT Glimp and the Kailh Sage are two popular mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics. The Glimp switch is a linear switch that strikes the perfect balance for those seeking a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. It offers a satisfying and responsive typing feel with its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force. Additionally, its fairly clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Sage switch offers a distinct clicky typing experience with a refreshingly sharp clickiness. It is heavier in weight compared to the Glimp switch, providing an invigorating and crunchy feel. While these general pointers give an overview, it is important to dive deeper into the specific features and personal preferences to determine the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Glimp Linear

Kailh Sage Clicky

$3.84

$3.45 per 10

$6.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Glimp and the Kailh Sage both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This choice of material contributes to a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. As a result, both the Glimp and the Sage offer similar sound qualities and visual aesthetics thanks to their polycarbonate top housings.

In terms of the bottom housing, the KTT Glimp and the Kailh Sage adopt a nylon material. This distinction impacts the sound profile when typing on the switches. Nylon is considered a softer plastic compared to other alternatives, which results in a deeper and fuller sound. The bottom housing's ability to absorb more sound contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile. Therefore, both the Glimp and the Sage provide a similar typing experience with their nylon bottom housings, characterized by a deeper sound quality.

It is worth noting that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in the overall sound and feel. The bottom housing is primarily responsible for the bottom-out sound and sensation, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Although the Glimp and the Sage differ in their top and bottom housing materials, these distinctions are unlikely to have significant impacts on the overall typing experience. Both switches will deliver satisfying typing sounds and sensations, albeit with minor variations attributed to the specific qualities of their respective housing materials.

Weight

In comparing the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams, providing a medium-light touch required to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Sage's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to determine. However, the Glimp's bottom out force is 53 grams, while the Sage requires a higher bottom out force of 70 grams, creating a medium-heavy typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter switch may find the Glimp more suitable, as it allows for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience would lean towards the Sage due to its heavier bottom out force. Regardless, both switches provide responsive keystrokes, ensuring similar results when it comes to typing efficiency.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is evident that the Glimp has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sage has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Typically, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered to be the most traditional, whereas 3.0 mm is regarded as the more shallow option. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, particularly among gamers who seek faster response times. Therefore, if you prioritize a highly responsive keyboard, opting for the switch with the shorter travel distance would be the better choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, preferring a switch with a longer travel distance for a more satisfying depth when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and specific use cases.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Glimp linear switch and the Sage clicky switch offer different qualities in both sound and feel. In terms of sound, the Glimp switch has a clacky sound profile, which produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This adds a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the sound of the Sage switch is described as crunchy, resembling the sound of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. It provides a distinct clicky typing experience with a refreshingly sharp clickiness. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to feel, the Glimp switch offers a creamy typing experience. It is described as smooth and buttery, providing a silky sensation when typing. The switches are lubricated at the factory, which contributes to their smoothness. The Glimp switch falls under the mild category, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Sage switch is described as invigorating and sharp. It offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. The strong and crisp tactile bump of the Sage switch can be felt distinctly with each and every keypress.

Taking all the available information into consideration, the Glimp linear switch and the Sage clicky switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The Glimp switch provides a clacky sound profile and a creamy, mild typing experience. It strikes a balance for those seeking a satisfying and responsive typing feel without overwhelming resistance. On the other hand, the Sage switch offers a crunchy sound with a distinct clicky typing experience. It has a heavier weight and provides an invigorating and sharp feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and can provide enjoyable typing experiences depending on personal preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are seeking a medium-light switch with a satisfying typing experience and a clacky sound profile, then the KTT Glimp linear switch would be the perfect choice for you. With its comfortable actuation force and tactile feedback, it provides a responsive typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavier bottom out force and a sharp clickiness, then the Kailh Sage clicky switch is the way to go. The Sage offers a refreshing and crunchy sound while typing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a clacky sound and medium-light feel or a sharp clickiness and medium-heavy feel.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Glimp Linear

$3.84

$3.45 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Sage Clicky

$6.25 per 10

Learn more