Gateron Glory Red vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Red and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Glory Red and the KTT Kang White both offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences. The Gateron Glory Red switches are celebrated for their lighter actuation force, providing a smooth keystroke with an enjoyable travel distance that makes typing feel effortless. This makes them an excellent choice for those who prioritize speed and comfort in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White switches are recognized for their poppy actuation and a remarkable typing sound, creating an auditory experience that many users find delightful. Additionally, the self-lubricating material used in the Kang White switches contributes to an unparalleled smoothness during typing, appealing to enthusiasts who seek precision and a satisfying touch. Both switches have their distinct advantages, but the best choice ultimately depends on your personal typing style and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Red and the KTT Kang White switches, a clear distinction arises between their top housings. The Glory Red utilizes nylon for its top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic properties. This softness allows the material to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience, which many typists may find pleasant for long typing sessions. In contrast, the KTT Kang White features a polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer material. This rigidity produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is often described as crisper and more resonant. Consequently, users seeking a vibrant and defined feedback from their typing might lean toward the Kang White, while those desiring a more muted, cushioned sound might prefer the Glory Red.
Interestingly, both switches feature nylon for their bottom housings. This factor results in a shared characteristic between the two models, as the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience with each keystroke. Even though their top housings produce contrasting auditory profiles, the nylon material in the bottom housing ensures that users will still experience a similar sound foundation at the release of the keys. This dual-material setup leads to a unique tactile and auditory response, where the differences in the top and bottom housings define the overall performance of each switch.
In essence, the difference in top housing materials between the Gateron Glory Red and the KTT Kang White creates distinct sound profiles, while the nylon bottom housings enable them to share a fundamental auditory characteristic. If a user prefers a softer, more muted sound, the Glory Red might be the better choice; however, if they are looking for a clearer and more resonant experience, the Kang White would serve that purpose well. Ultimately, the interplay of these housing materials means that both switches offer satisfying typing experiences, albeit through different auditory signatures, emphasizing how material choice can influence the tactile and aural characteristics of mechanical switches.
Weight
The Gateron Glory Red and KTT Kang White linear switches present an interesting comparison in terms of their acting and bottom out forces. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means they will provide a similar level of resistance when initially triggering a keystroke. This makes them equally suitable for those who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, when it comes to bottom out force, there is a notable difference; the Kang White boasts a bottom out force of 58 grams, which indicates a heavier feel at the end of the keystroke as compared to the undefined bottom out force of the Glory Red. Consequently, while both switches may feel light and agile during typing, the KTT Kang White will provide a more substantial experience upon bottoming out, appealing to users who enjoy a firmer press. Therefore, for a lighter typing experience, the Gateron Glory Red is the better choice, whereas the Kang White caters to those seeking a heavier, more tactile feedback as they reach the end of their key presses.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, a clear difference emerges. The Glory Red features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Kang White has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Gateron Glory Red offers a shorter, more responsive feel, which may be preferred by gamers looking for rapid actuation. In contrast, the KTT Kang White, with its longer travel distance, provides a more substantial depth, which some users may find more satisfying during use. Ultimately, your choice between these switches may depend on whether you prioritize quick response times or a more pronounced keystroke experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 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 Gateron Glory Red switches offer a relatively subdued auditory profile, favoring a quieter typing experience that is often appreciated for not being disruptive in shared work environments. In contrast, the KTT Kang White switches produce a low-pitched and neutral sound, characterized by a bass-heavy, mellow tone that can deliver a more pronounced auditory feedback while still maintaining versatility for various typing scenarios. The different sound signatures may appeal to specific user preferences; however, it's essential to remember that the overall sound production can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard construction and choice of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Glory Red switch is known for its smooth keystroke and pleasing travel distance, creating an enjoyable typing experience that many users find satisfying for extended use. The KTT Kang White switch, with its self-lubricating material, provides an unparalleled smoothness while typing, which enhances tactile comfort and can lead to a satisfying typing rhythm. Both switches possess qualities that cater to those who appreciate smooth linear actions, making them suitable for various applications, from typing to gaming.
In summary, while the Gateron Glory Red and KTT Kang White switches differ in their sound profiles, they cater well to users seeking smooth linear experiences. The Glory Red excels in providing a quieter operation, making it ideal for environments where noise is a concern. Meanwhile, the Kang White offers a more dynamic sound without sacrificing smoothness, thanks to its innovative materials. Ultimately, both switches promise a commendable typing experience, allowing users to achieve satisfactory results depending on their preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Glory Red and the KTT Kang White linear switches, consider your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you'll use them. If you favor a lighter switch that provides a smooth keystroke and a pleasing travel distance for an enjoyable and responsive typing experience, the Glory Red is an excellent choice. This switch is ideal for prolonged typing sessions, casual gaming, or if you simply enjoy a switch that feels effortless under your fingers. However, if you prefer a more substantial feel with an actuation force of 58 grams, the KTT Kang White might be more to your liking. This switch not only ensures you feel the actuation point more distinctly but also offers a low-pitched, mellow sound, making it suitable for both home and work settings, where you may want to strike a balance between typing enjoyment and noise levels. Additionally, the self-lubricating material of the Kang White strengthens its smoothness, ensuring a premium typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you seek a light, smooth typing feel or a more substantial, textured experience with a pleasant sound profile.