KTT Glimp vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches that offer unique features and advantages. The Glimp switch by KTT provides a medium-light typing experience with tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, making it ideal for those looking for a satisfying yet not overwhelming typing experience. On the other hand, Gateron's Zero Degree 0° linear switch focuses on silent typing with its self-padding design and dual-rail structure, offering unparalleled smoothness and stability. While the Glimp switch is known for its clacky sound profile, the Zero Degree 0° switch absorbs sound and reduces noise, providing a quieter typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the Glimp and Zero Degree 0° differ in their bottom housing materials. The Glimp utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° also features a nylon bottom housing, providing similar sound qualities to the Glimp.
When examining the impact of the different housing materials in these switches, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom housing parts. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's characteristics will be more noticeable in the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite the difference in bottom housing materials between the Glimp and the Zero Degree 0°, the overall typing experience may share similarities due to the use of nylon for both switches' bottom housings.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Glimp and Zero Degree 0° benefit from the translucency of their polycarbonate top housings, providing a visually appealing aspect for users who want to showcase RGB lighting effects. The choice of using polycarbonate for the top housing in both switches aligns with the desire for a sharper, crisper sound profile. However, the different bottom housing materials allow for a nuanced typing experience, with the Glimp offering a potentially deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing compared to the Zero Degree 0°. Overall, while both switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the varying bottom housing materials provide unique sound characteristics that may appeal to different preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch reveals some differences. The Glimp has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Zero Degree 0° which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Glimp requires 53 grams to bottom out, while the force required for the Zero Degree 0° is unknown. This means that the Glimp offers a more medium-light typing experience in terms of force required, while the Zero Degree 0° may provide a slightly heavier feel. The preference for a lighter or heavier force ultimately depends on the user's typing or gaming preferences. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the perfect fit for their needs.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, the Glimp has a travel distance of 4 mm while the Zero Degree 0° has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Glimp has a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth compared to the Zero Degree 0°. For those who prefer a more pronounced key press feel, the Glimp may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of key press feel and responsiveness.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Glimp linear switch has a clacky profile that produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, adding a crisp and bright auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch's sound profile is currently unknown. Both switches offer a different sound experience, so depending on personal preference for noise level and sound characteristics, users can choose between the clacky sound of the Glimp or the unknown sound profile of the Zero Degree 0°.
In terms of feel, the KTT Glimp linear switch offers a creamy typing experience, with a smooth and buttery sensation that allows fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. This switch provides a luxurious typing experience that is highly enjoyable for prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is currently unknown. If one is looking for a switch with a silky smooth typing feel, the Glimp switch would be the ideal choice based on the available information.
In conclusion, the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If users prefer a clacky sound profile and a creamy typing feel, the Glimp switch would be the recommended choice. However, if users are looking for a switch that provides unparalleled smoothness and noise reduction, the Zero Degree 0° switch may be a suitable option. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a satisfyingly clacky sound profile with tactile feedback, the Glimp switch is an excellent choice for a substantial typing experience. On the other hand, if you value silent typing with smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise, the Zero Degree 0° switch by Gateron may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire.
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