KTT Glimp vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Glimp and the Dareu Sky V4 stand out as top contenders in the market. The Glimp is a linear switch that offers a medium-light feel with tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, providing a satisfying typing experience with a fairly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Sky V4 also features a linear design but sets itself apart with the innovative use of POK material in its top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature and smooth linear action. While the Glimp is praised for its creamy and mild typing experience, the Sky V4 is known for its thocky and bouncy characteristics. When choosing between these switches, consider whether you prefer a more tactile and clacky typing experience like the Glimp or a smoother and deeper sound profile like the Sky V4. 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
55g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Dareu Sky V4, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature, which leads to more resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. On the other hand, the Sky V4 boasts a POK top housing, which is praised for its smoothness and durability. With a coefficient of friction higher than other materials, POK contributes to a clacky sound profile that is also resilient against wear and shock. While both switches utilize different top housing materials, they each offer unique benefits in terms of sound quality and performance.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Glimp and the Sky V4 feature nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a rounder tone. Despite both switches using the same material for the bottom housing, the impact of the bottom housing is felt primarily during the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switches. This results in a consistent typing experience with a similar sound profile provided by the nylon bottom housing.
Overall, while the top housing materials differ between the KTT Glimp and the Dareu Sky V4, both switches offer a unique combination of materials to enhance sound quality and durability. The Glimp's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and resonant sound profile, while the Sky V4's POK top housing offers smoothness and strength. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a consistent typing experience. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate or the smooth POK material, and regardless of the softer nylon bottom housing, both switches deliver a high-quality typing experience with distinctive sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, both switches fall into the medium-light category. The Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Sky V4 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Sky V4 is slightly heavier in both aspects compared to the Glimp. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Glimp may be the better choice as it requires slightly less force to actuate and bottom out. However, for those who enjoy a bit more resistance and a more substantial feel when typing, the Sky V4 may be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Glimp offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a satisfactory depth when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the Sky V4 offers a slightly shallower travel distance, which is favored by gamers looking for faster response times. If you prefer a switch with a shorter travel distance for quicker keystrokes, the Sky V4 would be the better option. However, if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth to the press, the Glimp with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and what feels more comfortable for the individual user.
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 Dareu Sky V4 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V4 for $4.76.
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 known for its clacky sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, adding a crisp and bright auditory element to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is distinguished by its thocky sound signature, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound that complements its smooth linear action. Both switches fall under the neutral descriptor, which means they have a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. However, the Sky V4 offers a low-pitched sound, which may appeal to users looking for a more bass-heavy and mellow tone in their typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Glimp switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a silky sensation reminiscent of gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 switch provides a bouncy feel, featuring a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that gives keys a lively bounce when pressed. The Glimp switch falls under the mild descriptor, offering a more gentle typing experience, while the Sky V4's bouncy feel adds a sense of rebound to each keystroke.
In conclusion, while both the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer a satisfying and responsive typing experience, they do so through different qualities in sound and feel. The Glimp switch provides a clacky sound profile and a creamy typing feel, ideal for those seeking a medium-light switch with tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch offers a thocky sound signature and a bouncy typing feel, thanks to the innovative use of POK material in its top housing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a tactile feedback and clacky sound profile, the Glimp could be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother linear action with a deeper thocky sound and a bouncy feel, the Sky V4 might be more suited to your taste. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing style and what features you prioritize in a keyboard switch. Happy typing!