KTT Glimp vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Glimp linear switch to the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is important to consider their unique characteristics and qualities. The Glimp switch is best known for its medium-light actuation force, providing a satisfying typing experience with tactile feedback and a fairly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch stands out for its softer acoustics profile and distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, thanks to its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem. While the Glimp switch is categorized as 'clacky', 'creamy', 'mild', 'neutral', the Xinhai switch falls under 'bouncy', 'clacky', 'creamy'. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and needs. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Glimp and the HMX Xinhai both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in these switches creates a more clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness, making it ideal for users looking for a distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
In contrast, the Glimp and the Xinhai differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Glimp using nylon and the Xinhai also opting for nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience compared to switches with polycarbonate bottom housings.
While both switches use polycarbonate for their top housings, the different bottom housing materials in the Glimp and the Xinhai impact the overall typing experience. The qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. This highlights how the choice of housing materials in a switch can greatly influence the sound and feel of typing, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is apparent that the Xinhai is lighter in both aspects. The Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Xinhai has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. The Glimp provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Xinhai offers a lighter touch. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Glimp would be the better option due to its slightly heavier forces. However, for individuals who enjoy a lighter touch and the ability to type for longer periods without fatigue, the Xinhai would be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Glimp's travel distance is slightly longer than that of the Xinhai, making it a better choice for those who prefer a more traditional key press feel. In contrast, the Xinhai's shorter travel distance may appeal more to gamers or those seeking faster response times. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience desired. Both switches offer different travel distances that cater to different preferences, allowing users to get similar results depending on their individual needs.
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 HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $2.99.
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, both the Glimp and Xinhai switches are described as "clacky," producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The Glimp offers a fairly clacky sound profile, adding an enjoyable auditory element to typing sessions. The Xinhai, on the other hand, features a unique PA12 top housing for a softer acoustics profile and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying sound experience with their clacky characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the Glimp switch is described as "creamy," offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This results in a silky sensation as fingers effortlessly glide across the keys with ease. The switch strikes a perfect balance for those seeking a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch is described as "bouncy," providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. This gives the keys a lively feel, offering rebound when pressed. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback, with the Glimp catering to a smoother typing experience and the Xinhai providing a more dynamic and bouncy feel.
In conclusion, both the KTT Glimp linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Glimp switch provides a clacky sound profile and a creamy typing experience, the Xinhai switch offers a slightly different sound profile with its softer acoustics and crisper resonance, along with a bouncy feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can choose the switch that best suits their typing style. Whether opting for the Glimp or Xinhai switch, users can expect a satisfying and responsive typing experience with each keystroke.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a clacky sound profile with a creamy typing feel, the Glimp switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a clacky sound profile, and a bouncy typing feel, the Xinhai switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your personal typing experience preferences.
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