KTT Glimp vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, two options to consider are the KTT Glimp and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear. The Glimp is a linear switch that strikes a perfect balance for those looking for a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. Its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force provide a satisfying and responsive typing feel, while its fairly clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear by Wuque is designed to elevate your office and work experience with its exceptional noise reduction. Featuring ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, these linear switches masterfully reduce switch noise while still delivering unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out. Unlike traditional silent switches, the WS Silent Linear switches offer a distinct typing experience that is devoid of the usual cushioned sensation, ensuring a seamless blend of tranquility and precision. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the KTT Glimp and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear, specifically their top housings, are quite different. The Glimp features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Glimp is translucent, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Glimp and the WS Silent Linear employ nylon as their material of choice. Nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material, and it offers similar benefits to both switches. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. This can be attributed to nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. Consequently, both switches produce a slightly duller and rounder sound due to the properties of the nylon bottom housing.
It is worth noting that the differences in the top and bottom housings of the switches play a significant role in their overall performance. When pressing down on either switch, the sensations and sound produced will largely be influenced by the bottom housing. As the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing will be evident in both the Glimp and the WS Silent Linear. Conversely, the top housing will primarily affect the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Glimp and the WS Silent Linear have varying top housing materials, the qualities brought forth by each housing material are split between the top and bottom, ensuring a unique typing experience for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, the actuation and bottom out forces differ in weight. The Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams, providing a medium-light touch to trigger keystrokes, while the WS Silent Linear's actuation force is unavailable. However, the Glimp has a bottom out force of 53 grams, indicating a slightly heavier feel when pressing all the way down. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy. Overall, those seeking a lighter typing experience may prefer the Glimp, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out, enabling longer typing sessions and comfortable gaming. On the other hand, those desiring a more robust push feel and a substantial typing experience would find the WS Silent Linear more suitable, as it has a heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Glimp has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the WS Silent linear switch. 4.0mm is the most traditional travel distance, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness, while 3.5 mm is on the shallower end. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the WS Silent Linear a suitable option for them. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the 4 mm travel distance of the Glimp would be the better choice. Regardless of their differences, both switches offer a distinct feel and can deliver similar results depending on individual preferences.
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 Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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
In terms of sound, the Glimp switch offers a clacky profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This adds a crisp and bright auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch has a muted and subdued sound. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, effectively minimizing noise. While it may not be completely silent, it offers a more subtle and tranquil typing experience. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes and environments. Keep in mind that the specific sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Glimp switch provides a creamy and mild typing experience. With its smooth and buttery feel, this switch offers a satisfying and effortless keystroke. It glides seamlessly under your fingers, providing a silky sensation as you type. Similarly, the WS Silent Linear switch offers a mild typing experience, ensuring a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Both switches stand in a safe and approachable middle-ground zone, making them suitable for most users.
In conclusion, the Glimp and WS Silent Linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Glimp switch provides a clacky sound profile, adding a crisp and bright auditory experience to typing. It also offers a creamy and mild feel, providing a smooth and buttery typing sensation. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch has a muted and subdued sound, minimizing noise and creating a tranquil typing atmosphere. Its feel is also mild, ensuring a gentle and approachable typing experience. While these switches differ in certain aspects, they both have a neutral sound profile and can be suitable for various purposes. Whether you prefer a more clicky and creamy experience with the Glimp switch or a quiet and smooth typing sensation with the WS Silent Linear switch, both options offer excellent choices based on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are seeking a medium-light switch with a balanced typing experience and a satisfying tactile feedback, the KTT Glimp linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its clacky sound profile, it adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet and tranquil typing experience in your office or work environment, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch is the way to go. These switches reduce switch noise without the use of silicone dampeners, ensuring a seamless blend of tranquility and precision. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on whether you prefer a clacky typing experience or a subdued and muted sound profile.
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