KTT Glimp vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Weightlessness each offer distinct advantages that cater to different typing preferences. The Glimp, a linear switch, is celebrated for its medium-light resistance, balancing a substantial typing experience with an easy actuation that avoids overwhelming pressure. With its satisfying clacky sound profile and creamy texture, the Glimp provides a delightful auditory and tactile experience, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a lively typing atmosphere. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness offers a tactile experience that is subtle to moderate, appealing to users who favor a more subdued tactile feedback while still enjoying a balanced sound profile. This makes the Weightlessness switch a great option for those seeking an understated yet responsive feel without the distraction of overly pronounced sounds. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on whether you prefer the bold, engaging experience of the KTT Glimp or the refined, gentle touch of the Gateron Weightlessness. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Glimp and Gateron Weightlessness switches present contrasting sound profiles owing to their differing top housing materials. The Glimp features a polycarbonate top housing, which is recognized for its stiffness and translucency, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound when typing. This material allows for a clearer resonance, accentuating the sound produced upon key release. Additionally, polycarbonate's clarity makes it a desirable choice for users who wish to utilize RGB lighting, as the illumination can shine through more effectively. In stark contrast, the Weightlessness switch employs a nylon top housing that contributes a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This nylon material absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder typing experience, which may appeal to those who prefer a more muted auditory feedback during use.
Both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing material, as both the Glimp and Weightlessness utilize nylon. This creates a cohesive auditory signature in terms of the bottom-out sound, where nylon's sound-absorbing qualities lead to a similar deeper and fuller typing feedback. The use of nylon on the bottom housing ensures that while the Glimp's top housing produces a sharper sound, the two switches can still generate a comparable bottom-out experience due to the overarching effect of the nylon’s material properties. The sound produced from bottoming out will be consistent across both switches, giving users a familiar feel despite contrasting top housing materials.
When considering the overall typing experience, the combination of the different top and bottom housing materials will result in varied acoustics and feedback. The KTT Glimp's polycarbonate top contrasts with its nylon bottom to create a blend of sharp release sounds paired with a resonant bottom-out experience. Meanwhile, the Gateron Weightlessness maintains a smoother auditory experience throughout due to its consistent use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings. Therefore, while users of the Glimp may enjoy a more dynamic sound profile, those who choose the Weightlessness will benefit from a more unified and deeper auditory feedback. Ultimately, the housing materials not only define the switches individually but also shape the user experience through sound and tactile response.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch to the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, several distinctions emerge. The Glimp has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, compared to the Weightlessness's 50 grams, making the Glimp easier to press, which is ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience during long sessions. However, the Glimp also has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the bottom out force for the Weightlessness is unspecified. This means that while the Glimp provides a medium-light overall experience, the absence of a defined bottom out force for the Weightlessness leaves us unclear about its total resistance during full depression. Therefore, users seeking a definitive push feel may lean towards the Glimp for a more predictable response, while those who enjoy heavier switches could benefit from the Weightlessness, assuming it aligns with their preferred typing experience upon full actuation.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Glimp switch offers a deeper and more pronounced keypress, which could be preferable for users who enjoy a traditional typing experience with a hearty depth. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness switch's shorter travel distance caters to those who favor faster response times, which is particularly advantageous for gamers seeking quick actions. Thus, if one prioritizes a more responsive feel, the Weightlessness would be the better choice, whereas those who enjoy a fuller key travel might opt for the Glimp. Ultimately, the Glimp has the longer travel distance, while the Weightlessness is the shorter option.
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 Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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 sound profile of the KTT Glimp linear switch is distinctly clacky, characterized by a sharp and snappy tone that is crisp, bright, and percussive. This auditory feedback can enhance the overall typing experience, making each keystroke feel more engaging. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch has a balanced sound profile, which implies that it offers a more neutral auditory feedback. While the Glimp switch produces a more pronounced sound, the Weightlessness may appeal to those who prefer a subtler auditory response. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by any switch can vary based on factors such as the keyboard board and keycap materials used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Glimp switch provides a creamy, smooth typing experience, often attributed to either factory lubrication or specific construction materials that enhance its buttery glide. This ensures a silky sensation as fingers effortlessly transition between keystrokes. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch is noted for offering a subtle to moderate tactile feel, which can provide a more gentle typing experience compared to the pronounced characteristics of the Glimp. While the Glimp excels in delivering a creamy sensation, the Weightlessness aims for a more balanced approach, catering to users who may prefer less pronounced tactile feedback.
Overall, the KTT Glimp and Gateron Weightlessness switches cater to different preferences, particularly when considering sound and feel. The Glimp's clackiness and creamy smoothness offer a lively and satisfying typing experience, while the Weightlessness provides a balanced auditory profile coupled with a moderate tactile sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding the desired auditory feedback and the tactile experience, and both can achieve satisfying typing results in their own unique ways.
Conclusion
To sum up, selecting between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you desire a typing experience that is both responsive and satisfying, the Glimp switch is an excellent choice, particularly if you appreciate a medium-light touch and a clacky sound profile that adds a lively auditory dimension to your typing. Its creamy feel also enhances the overall smoothness of keystrokes, making it ideal for those who enjoy a fluid, effortless typing experience without excessive resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle tactile sensation and a more balanced sound profile, the Weightlessness tactile switch could be the better option. While its tactile feedback is not as pronounced, it allows for a more nuanced auditory and physical response, making it great for users who may find the clackiness of the Glimp too distracting in quieter environments. Ultimately, consider your typing environment and whether you value auditory feedback and a lively feel or a more muted tactile experience when making your choice.
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