KTT Glimp vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Glimp and Gateron Type S both offer unique features and advantages to cater to different typing preferences. The KTT Glimp, a linear switch, is renowned for its medium-light feel that strikes a perfect balance for those seeking a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. With tactile feedback, comfortable actuation force, and a fairly clacky sound profile, the Glimp switch provides a satisfying and responsive typing feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more interactive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S, also a linear switch, stands out for its flagship offering from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," which revisits classic travel distances and molds with contemporary factory lubing techniques. Featuring a 65g bottom-out weight that caters to those who prefer a weightier keystroke, the Type S offers a pleasing balance in sound signature, leaning towards a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience. While the Glimp switch may suit individuals who enjoy a clacky, creamy, and mild typing experience, the Type S switch might appeal to those who prefer a more subdued and neutral keystroke. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Type S switches offer contrasting sound profiles and experiences. The Glimp utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiff plastic that resonates sound clearly. In contrast, the Type S features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound that is duller and rounder compared to polycarbonate. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the choice between a sharper sound with polycarbonate or a fuller sound with nylon ultimately comes down to personal preference.
On the other hand, when it comes to bottom housings, both the Glimp and Type S switches feature nylon materials. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. As a result, the bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be consistent across both switches. Therefore, if you enjoy the sound produced by nylon bottom housings, you can expect a similar experience with either the Glimp or Type S switches.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Type S switches ultimately comes down to the desired sound profile and aesthetic preferences. The Glimp's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those who prefer a more defined typing experience. In contrast, the Type S's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to users who enjoy a rounder sound profile. While the bottom housings of both switches are made of nylon, resulting in a similar typing experience, the decision between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, it is clear that the Glimp is the lighter option while the Type S is the heavier one. The Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Type S has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Glimp, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial and firm typing feel may gravitate towards the Type S for a stronger push sensation. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to the preferences of different users.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. As a result, the typing experience on both switches will feel consistent in terms of key travel. Whether you choose the KTT Glimp or the Gateron Type S, you can expect to receive similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 Type S comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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 has a distinctive clacky profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound for a more engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch offers a more neutral sound signature, leaning towards a deeper acoustic experience that is still pleasing to the ears. Both switches have qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Glimp being more vibrant and percussive, while the Type S offers a more subdued and subtle sound when pressed.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Glimp linear switch is noted for its creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation that makes typing effortless and enjoyable. This is achieved through lubricant applied in the switch at the factory or specific materials used in its construction. In contrast, the Gateron Type S linear switch does not have specific feel descriptors available. However, based on its 65g bottom-out weight and contemporary factory lubing techniques, it can be inferred that the Type S provides a more substantial and weighty keystroke experience that might appeal to users who prefer a bit of resistance in their typing.
In conclusion, while the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch offer different sound profiles and typing experiences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying and responsive typing feel. Whether you prefer a more clacky and vibrant sound with a creamy and smooth typing sensation like the Glimp, or a neutral and subdued sound with a weightier keystroke like the Type S, both switches offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-light switch with a tactile feedback and clacky sound profile, the Glimp switch would be the ideal choice for a satisfying and responsive typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, then the Gateron Type S switch with its medium-heavy bottom-out force could be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and which characteristics align best with your typing style.
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