KTT Glimp vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Glimp and the Dareu Snow mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, we immediately notice distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Glimp is renowned for its medium-light touch, offering a perfect balance for those who desire a tactile typing experience without excessive resistance. Its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force provide a satisfying and responsive typing feel, complemented by a fairly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Snow switch differentiates itself with the innovative use of POK material for the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature during typing. The Snow switch is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy', whereas the Glimp switch is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. While both switches have their unique qualities, it ultimately boils down to personal preference when choosing between them. 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
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Dareu Snow, it is evident that both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon, a classic switch housing material, provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature which absorbs more sound. This results in a rounder and duller sound when typing on switches using nylon bottom housing. Despite the same material choice for the bottom housing, the Glimp and the Snow may offer slightly different sound profiles due to other factors such as switch design and build.
On the other hand, the top housing materials of the Glimp and the Snow differ significantly. The Glimp utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which gives a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a clearer and more resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with clear housings intended for RGB lighting. In contrast, the Snow features POK material for its top housing, known for its smoothness and durability. POK material offers a smooth and clacky sound profile, with exceptional strength and wear resistance, making it a top choice for switch housing material.
While the Glimp and the Snow both incorporate nylon for the bottom housing, the difference in top housing materials results in distinct sound profiles and characteristics for each switch. The Glimp's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharp and clear sound, ideal for RGB lighting and a crisper typing experience, while the Snow's POK top housing offers smoothness and durability, contributing to a clacky sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch are lighter compared to the Dareu Snow linear switch. The Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Snow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial push feel. Both switches fall within the medium range of force, with the Glimp leaning towards the lighter side and the Snow towards the heavier side. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the two options to determine the level of force that best suits their typing needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is clear that the Glimp has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Snow's 3.3 mm travel distance. The Glimp's 4 mm travel distance falls into the category of a more traditional distance, providing a deeper key press experience. On the other hand, the Snow's shorter 3.3 mm travel distance may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on individual preferences. The Glimp provides a more robust feel with its longer travel distance, while the Snow offers a quicker response due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize depth in key presses or rapid responsiveness in your typing experience.
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 Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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, which provides a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, adding a crisp and percussive element to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch offers a thocky sound signature, producing a deep and satisfying tone when typing. Both switches are considered to have a neutral sound profile, making them versatile options suitable for various environments and preferences. The low-pitched nature of the Snow switch adds a bass-heavy and mellow tone to its sound, creating a unique auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Glimp switch offers a creamy typing experience, characterized by a smooth and buttery feel that allows for effortless keystrokes. This sensation is akin to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, providing a luxurious typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives the keys a lively and responsive feel, offering a different tactile experience compared to the Glimp switch. The Glimp switch falls into the mild category, offering a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users.
Overall, both the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. While the Glimp switch boasts a clacky sound profile and a creamy typing feel, the Snow switch stands out with its thocky sound signature and bouncy tactile feedback. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between these switches to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup. Despite their differences, both switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them versatile options suitable for various typing scenarios. Ultimately, selecting either switch will result in a satisfying typing experience, tailored to individual preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a medium-light switch with tactile feedback, a clacky sound profile, and a creamy, mild feel, then the Glimp switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with a deeper sound signature, a thocky sound profile, and a bouncy feel, then the Snow switch would better suit your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and actuation force.
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