KTT Glimp vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options like the KTT Glimp and the Bsun Taichi, both linear switches that offer unique qualities. The KTT Glimp is celebrated for its medium-light actuation force, striking a harmonious balance that allows for comfortable and efficient typing without the harshness of heavy resistance. Its tactile feedback and fairly clacky sound profile enhance the user experience, making it an appealing option for those who enjoy a responsive and engaging typing feel. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi shines with its specialized design, featuring a long-pole stem and extended springs that ensure a smooth, stable action with a notably enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound. While the Glimp may appeal to those seeking a satisfying auditory touch combined with a mild typing experience, the Taichi caters to users who prioritize smoothness and stability in their keystrokes. 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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Glimp and the Bsun Taichi switches utilize the same primary material for their top housing: polycarbonate. This shared material choice imparts a similar sound profile to both switches, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper acoustic experience. Polycarbonate's rigidity contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound, making it particularly advantageous for users interested in RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the visual appeal of illuminated effects. Therefore, regardless of the brand, users can expect an engaging auditory experience when utilizing these switches, with both benefiting from the favorable properties offered by polycarbonate.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the KTT Glimp and the Bsun Taichi switches feature nylon. This classic material is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic composition, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder alternatives. The result is a duller and rounder acoustic quality when typing, enriching the overall experience while using these switches. This shared bottom housing material further reinforces the idea that both switches will deliver similar results in terms of sound engagement, even though they may exhibit differences in tactile feedback, owing to their distinct brand engineering.
In summary, both the KTT Glimp and the Bsun Taichi leverage the benefits of polycarbonate for their upper housing and nylon for their lower housing. This combination means that while the two switches may stand apart in brand naming and design particulars, their sound profiles will exhibit surprising similarities and corresponding auditory responses. The polycarbonate tops heighten the sound clarity, while the nylon bottoms deepen the auditory experience, culminating in a well-balanced switch performance regardless of which option a consumer chooses. Hence, enthusiasts can confidently select either switch knowing that they will achieve a similar acoustic experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, there are notable differences between the two. The Glimp has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams, compared to the Taichi's 40 grams, making the Taichi a lighter option for those who prefer less resistance while typing or gaming. The Glimp also has a bottom out force of 53 grams, indicating a medium-light feel when fully pressed down. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Taichi is unknown, leaving a gap in understanding its pressure at full depression. For users who prioritize typing for extended periods or gaming without fatigue, the Taichi may appeal due to its lower actuation force, while the Glimp offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier feel. Overall, if both switches had similar bottom out forces, users could expect a comparable experience, yet given the current data, the Glimp presents a stronger feedback with its confirmed bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Glimp and Bsun Taichi linear switches, the Glimp has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Taichi measures at 3.6 mm. This makes the Glimp the longer option, which may appeal to users who appreciate a more pronounced key press and deeper feedback, as it provides a more traditional typing experience. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Taichi can be more appealing for gamers and those who favor quicker response times, offering a snappier feel with less travel required. Therefore, if you prioritize a more responsive switch, the Taichi would be the preferable choice, while the Glimp caters to those who enjoy a more substantial tactile 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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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
The KTT Glimp linear switch produces a distinct clacky sound profile that can be characterized as sharp and snappy, offering a crisp auditory experience during typing. This makes it suitable for users who appreciate a bit more acoustic feedback from their switches, whether for its satisfying presence in casual use or its ability to alert others nearby that one is typing. On the contrary, specific sound qualities for the Bsun Taichi switch are currently unknown; however, it is noted that the Taichi offers a high-pitched bottom-out sound, which might appeal to those who enjoy a brighter auditory cue upon key activation. Sound perception can also vary widely based on the keyboard build, including the material of the board and keycaps used, making personal experimentation key to finding the right auditory experience.
Regarding the feel, the Glimp switch is described as creamy and mild, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels gentle under the fingers. This pleasant sensation is thanks to either factory lubrication or the switch's construction. With this configuration, the Glimp switch is both approachable and enjoyable for users of all skill levels. In contrast, the tactile feel of the Bsun Taichi switch is currently undisclosed. The aforementioned qualities of the Glimp underlie its appeal, implying that anyone who tries the Taichi switch may encounter a different yet potentially rewarding typing sensation that could equally suit their preferences.
In conclusion, while the KTT Glimp linear switch offers a satisfying and responsive typing experience marked by its clacky sound and smooth feel, the specific qualities of the Bsun Taichi linear switch remain less defined. Potential users may find that both switches are tailored to create enjoyable typing experiences, though their distinct characteristics suggest different uses. While Glimp provides a balanced and engaging auditory and tactile engagement, the Taichi's high-pitched sound and unknown tactile feel might attract those looking for something unique. Exploring each switch will ultimately highlight personal preferences, making it essential for newcomers to try both for themselves.
Conclusion
To sum up, when you're deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, your choice should align with your personal preferences in typing experience and sound profile. If you appreciate a medium-light switch that provides a satisfying tactile feedback along with a distinctly clacky sound, the Glimp is a fantastic option. Its combination of creamy feel and enjoyable auditory response makes it well-suited for those who engage in extensive typing sessions or gaming where each keystroke feels and sounds delightful. On the other hand, if you're after a switch that prioritizes an ultra-smooth typing experience with a unique high-pitched sound, then the Bsun Taichi may be the right fit for you. Its long-pole stem and extended springs lend themselves to a seamless typing feel that could enhance your workflow, particularly if you are sensitive to switch feel and prioritize sound quality over actuation force. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you value a balanced, moderately tactile experience or the pursuit of silky-smooth performance with distinctive auditory characteristics.
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