KTT Glimp vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Glimp and the HMX Sunset Gleam are two intriguing options, each offering unique characteristics tailored for different typing preferences. The KTT Glimp is celebrated for its medium-light actuation, offering a harmonious blend of tactile feedback and comfortable resistance that allows for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. Its fairly clacky sound profile not only enhances the auditory experience but also adds a layer of satisfaction to each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, stands out with its polished texture and bouncy responsiveness, designed to deliver a silky smooth typing experience complemented by a subtle top-out. The factory lube applied by HMX ensures a whisper-soft actuation, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer muted sound and a refined feel. Both switches present compelling advantages depending on your typing style, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Glimp Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.84

$3.45 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Glimp and HMX Sunset Gleam switches share significant similarities in terms of their housing materials, particularly in the use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate's inherent qualities, which not only lend to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, but also enhance the aesthetic appeal. The translucency of polycarbonate is notably advantageous for RGB lighting, making both switches equally suited for custom lighting setups. This material's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant acoustics, ensuring that users will experience a pronounced sound when interacting with either switch, further emphasizing the effectiveness of the polycarbonate top housing in achieving a vibrant audio output.

In contrast, while both switches incorporate nylon for their bottom housings, the properties of this material introduce a distinct tonal depth to their overall performance. Nylon is praised for its ability to absorb sound, which translates into a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This characteristic is consistent across both the KTT Glimp and the HMX Sunset Gleam, resulting in a sound that is described as duller and rounder compared to the sharper tones produced by their polycarbonate tops. The softer nature of nylon allows for a more muted response that affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, ensuring that users experience a satisfying tactile response as they press down on the keys.

When considering the combined effects of the top and bottom housing materials, both switches exhibit a nuanced sound profile that harmonizes their respective characteristics. While the polycarbonate top housing elevates the sound when releasing keys, the nylon bottom housing grounds the experience with a fuller sound when typing. This interplay of materials allows both the KTT Glimp and HMX Sunset Gleam to deliver an enjoyable typing experience, despite their differences. As a result, users can expect a well-rounded performance from either switch, characterized by a blend of crisp highs and deep lows, ensuring satisfactory outcomes regardless of the choice made between the two.

Weight

The KTT Glimp linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch present distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for varying user preferences. The Glimp features an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light option. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam boasts a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a lower bottom out force of 48 grams, which classifies it as light. Consequently, the Sunset Gleam offers a more effortless pressing experience without sacrificing responsiveness, making it an attractive choice for those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the Glimp, with its marginally higher forces, provides a more pronounced tactile response that some users may find satisfying for a robust typing experience. Overall, while both switches offer a unique feel, the Glimp is heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the lighter Sunset Gleam.

Travel distance

The KTT Glimp linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference highlights the preference for varied user experiences: the Glimp, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial and hearty feel, which some users might favor for a more tactile response. Conversely, the Sunset Gleam, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers or those seeking quicker response times and a more immediate feedback when pressing down on keys. Therefore, while both switches fulfill the basic function of allowing key presses, the KTT Glimp is the longer option at 4 mm, and the HMX Sunset Gleam is the shorter one at 3.5 mm, catering to different user preferences in tactile feedback during typing or gaming.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Glimp switch presents a fairly clacky auditory profile, characterized by a sharp, crisp, and bright sound that can be quite satisfying during typing sessions. This clacky quality adds a lively element to the overall typing experience, making it particularly engaging. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch produces a resonant sound profile that is clean and sharp, offering an immersive auditory experience. While both switches provide an enjoyable sound, the Glimp leans towards a more percussive quality, while the Sunset Gleam focuses on a higher-pitched resonance, showcasing the distinct characteristics of each.

In terms of feel, the KTT Glimp switch is described as creamy and mild, delivering a smooth and buttery typing experience along with gentle feedback. This results in a comfortable typing experience that suits a variety of users, making it approachable for both beginners and seasoned typists. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch is characterized by its polished, bouncy, and silky feel. The polished nature contributes to reduced friction, while the bouncy feedback provides a springy sensation that adds liveliness to keystrokes. The Sunset Gleam's attributes yield a highly smooth experience, setting it apart from the creamy texture of the Glimp.

Overall, both the KTT Glimp and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches cater to different preferences while providing enjoyable typing experiences. The Glimp focuses on a clacky sound with creamy feel, making it great for those who appreciate auditory feedback alongside a smooth typing touch. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam emphasizes a resonant sound and polished feel with lively responsiveness. While they may differ in certain subjective qualities, choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference, as both can deliver satisfying outcomes depending on your typing habits and aesthetic preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you're looking for a balanced feel with a medium-light bottom out force, the Glimp is an excellent choice. Its clacky sound profile, paired with a creamy and mild typing sensation, creates a rewarding tactile experience, making it ideal for users who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback during their typing sessions and prefer a slightly more substantial keystroke. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch while typing and value a smoother, polished experience, the HMX Sunset Gleam is likely the better fit. With its lighter actuation force, resonant sound profile, and silky feel, this switch provides a lively and almost bouncy typing experience, perfect for those who prioritize speed and comfort without overwhelming resistance. Ultimately, your decision should align with what aspects of typing you value most: whether that’s a satisfying auditory and tactile experience with the Glimp, or a fast and smooth ride with the Sunset Gleam.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Glimp Linear

$3.84

$3.45 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more