KTT Glimp vs. Durock T1

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Glimp and the Durock T1 are both popular choices, each offering unique features and benefits. The Glimp switch is a linear switch, providing a smooth typing experience without resistance. It strikes the perfect balance for those seeking a substantial typing experience without overwhelming force. With tactile feedback and a comfortable actuation force, the Glimp switch offers a satisfying and responsive typing feel. Additionally, its fairly clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Durock T1 is a tactile switch known for its super comfortable typing experience. It features a medium bump when pressing down, reminiscent of rain falling on a window, and a low-pitched sound profile. The T1 switch is categorized as stepped, neutral, accented, and polished. Both switches have their own merits, so let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.

By the numbers

KTT Glimp Linear

Durock T1 Tactile

$3.84

$3.45 per 10

$5.50

$4.90 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Durock T1, specifically their polycarbonate top housing, are quite similar in terms of the sound profile they create. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches boast a translucent top housing, making them ideal for RGB lighting. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with these sound characteristics and the ability to showcase RGB lighting, both the Glimp and the T1 will offer similar results.

As for the bottom housing of the switches, the KTT Glimp features a nylon bottom housing, while the Durock T1 also utilizes nylon in its bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic compared to harder alternatives, allowing it to absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound. Both the Glimp and the T1 will deliver these qualities, making them suitable for those seeking a more immersive typing experience.

When considering the overall impact of the different housing materials, it's important to note that the bottom housing will have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. This means that pressing down on the switch will primarily showcase the qualities of the bottom housing. Conversely, the top housing will have a more noticeable impact on the sound when you release the key. Understanding this distinction will help you assess whether the sound profiles of the Glimp and the T1 align with your preferences and typing style.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The actuation force for the Glimp is 43 grams, while it is unavailable for the T1. However, both switches have a bottom out force - the force required to fully press the key - with the Glimp at 53 grams and the T1 at 67 grams. This makes the Glimp lighter in terms of bottom out force, providing a more effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the T1 is heavier, catering to those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the Glimp is ideal for users who prefer a lighter switch, while the T1 is better suited for those who enjoy a heavier touch.

Travel distance

The KTT Glimp linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. When pressing down on either of these switches, users will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This ensures a consistent tactile experience regardless of which switch is chosen. With both switches offering an equal travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of the distance they feel when typing or gaming.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Glimp linear switch is best described as clacky. This means that it produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch has a low-pitched sound profile, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone reminiscent of rain falling on a window. Both switches have a neutral overall sound profile, which means they have a moderate actuation force requirement and sound suitable for most intents and purposes. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the KTT Glimp linear switch offers a creamy typing experience. This means that it provides a smooth and buttery sensation when typing, resembling gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The Glimp switch achieves this by either having lubricant applied at the factory or through specific materials used in its construction. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as stepped, which means it has a two-stage feel. You can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, giving it a more mild tactile experience compared to switches with a more pronounced bump. Additionally, the T1 switch is accented, providing a notable amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. It is not hypertactile nor scratchy, striking a balance between the two. Lastly, the T1 switch is polished, offering a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and provides a sleek typing experience.

In conclusion, the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Glimp switch has a clacky sound profile, giving it a crisp and percussive sound, while the T1 switch has a low-pitched sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. As for feel, the Glimp switch provides a creamy typing experience, allowing for smooth and effortless key presses, while the T1 switch offers a stepped and accented tactile experience, providing a moderate amount of tactility without being overwhelming. It is also worth noting that the T1 switch is polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, these switches cater to different preferences, with the Glimp switch providing a balanced linear experience and the T1 switch offering a tactile typing experience with a moderate bump. Depending on personal preference, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-light switch that strikes a balance between typing experience and resistance, the KTT Glimp linear switch is a great choice. With its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, this switch offers a satisfying and responsive typing feel. The fairly clacky sound profile also adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch that is super comfortable to type on, the Durock T1 tactile switch is the way to go. It provides a medium bump when pressing down, and the sound reminds us of rain falling on a window. When it comes to sound, the Glimp has a clacky sound profile, while the T1 has a low-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the Glimp offers a creamy and mild typing experience, while the T1 provides a stepped, accented, and polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your preferences for typing experience, sound, and feel.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Glimp Linear

$3.84

$3.45 per 10

Learn more

Durock T1 Tactile

$5.50

$4.90 per 10

Learn more