KTT Glimp vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Glimp linear switch to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features to consider. The Glimp switch is renowned for its medium-light actuation force, providing a satisfying typing experience with tactile feedback and a fairly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie stands out for its all-POM construction, delivering a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. While the Glimp switch is more neutral and creamy in its feel, the Smoothie switch offers a buttery and subdued typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing needs; 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
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POM
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Smoothie offer distinct characteristics when it comes to sound profiles and aesthetics. The Glimp's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Smoothie's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, while POM provides a unique and pleasing appearance. Despite their differences, both materials enhance the overall typing experience with their distinct sound qualities.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Glimp's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deep and muted sound profile. While the materials may differ, both bottom housings play a significant role in determining the overall sound experience of the switches. The rounder and duller sound produced by nylon and POM creates a more satisfying typing experience, even though their specific characteristics vary slightly.
Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch plays a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and feel of typing. The unique qualities of polycarbonate and POM in the top housing influence the sound when pressing and releasing keys, while the nylon and POM in the bottom housing impact the bottom-out sound and overall typing feel. Despite the differences between the Glimp and Smoothie housing materials, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound profiles and aesthetics. Whether opting for the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the more muted sound of POM, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either option.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, we see some differences. The Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Smoothie has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force that is unknown. The Glimp is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force compared to the Smoothie, but both switches have a relatively light actuation force. However, the Glimp has a higher bottom out force, making it slightly heavier overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Smoothie, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may choose the Glimp. In terms of weight, the Glimp offers a more medium-light experience, while the Smoothie's weight is unavailable for comparison. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Glimp linear switch by KTT has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch only has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Glimp switch the longer option in terms of travel distance. The Glimp switch may provide a slightly deeper press compared to the Smoothie, which could be preferred by those who like a bit more resistance in their key presses. On the other hand, the Smoothie switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may be favored by gamers looking for quicker response times. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience with minimal differences in travel distance, so users can expect comparable results when it comes to key feel and performance.
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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 is known for its fairly clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a thocky sound signature, producing a deep and satisfying tone with a more bass-heavy and mellow quality. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Glimp being more on the bright and percussive side, and the Smoothie delivering a softer and more subdued sound.
Moving on to the feel, the KTT Glimp switch is often described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a mild touch. This switch provides a silky sensation, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. In comparison, the Gateron Smoothie switch is also noted for its buttery and creamy feel, ensuring a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Both switches prioritize smoothness and ease of typing, providing a gentle and approachable experience for users.
Overall, both the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Glimp switch excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a creamy typing experience, the Smoothie switch stands out with its thocky sound signature and buttery feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound characteristics and typing sensations, but rest assured that both switches will deliver a satisfying and responsive typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-light switch with tactile feedback and a clacky sound profile, the Glimp switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, the Smoothie switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a satisfying typing experience with tactile feedback and a clacky sound or a smooth, quiet, and lightweight typing feel. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences for a seamless and enjoyable typing experience.
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