Gateron Glory Yellow vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Glory Yellow and the KTT Laurel stand out as two excellent linear options, each catering to different preferences in the typing experience. The Gateron Glory Yellow is celebrated for its heavier feel, providing smooth keystrokes with a pleasing travel distance that many users find enhances their overall typing enjoyment. In contrast, the KTT Laurel offers a medium-light touch that combines responsiveness with comfort, thanks to its full POM housing and long pole design, delivering a subtly low-pitched sound profile that appeals to those who prefer a quieter typing environment. While the Glory Yellow is optimal for users who favor a more substantial key press, the KTT Laurel might be the right choice for those seeking agility and snappiness. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Yellow and the KTT Laurel, a key difference lies in the choice of plastics: the Glory Yellow utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, while the Laurel opts for POM (Polyoxymethylene) for its housings. Nylon is a classic material in switch construction, known for its soft and durable characteristics, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is particularly noticeable in the Glory Yellow, where the nylon’s ability to absorb sound results in a rounder and more muted acoustic experience, providing a warm typing sensation. In contrast, the KTT Laurel's POM housing offers a somewhat unique take, producing a similarly deep sound profile but with a decidedly distinct character that is described as "pleasing."
Despite their differences, both switches exhibit an overall muted sound profile, with each material influencing the auditory feedback experienced during typing. The softness of nylon in the Glory Yellow's housing plays a significant role in creating its deeper sound, while the POM in the Laurel's housing contributes to a pleasant, uncontested acoustic experience. The bottom-out sounds, which are primarily affected by the bottom housing, will feel different in each switch—the nylon of the Glory Yellow might yield a duller thud, whereas the POM of the Laurel may offer a snappier response. However, both materials maintain a level of sound absorption that prevents overly harsh acoustics, ultimately lending to the satisfying sound palette that both switches provide.
In evaluating the impact of the housing materials on typing feel and sound, it is evident that the unique properties of nylon and POM do complement each other, albeit in different ways. The Glory Yellow’s nylon is more traditional and produces a duller sound due to its softer composition, while the KTT Laurel's POM offers a nuanced sound experience. If tested side by side, users might find that the Gateron Glory Yellow provides a cohesive comfort through its nylon consistency, while the KTT Laurel introduces a different yet enjoyable dynamic via its POM. In conclusion, both switches achieve a desirable typing experience with a similar sound profile, while the variations in material lend a unique flair to each, making either choice favorable depending on personal preference.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, notable differences in actuation force emerge, highlighting their respective typing experiences. The Glory Yellow features an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Laurel is lighter at 43 grams, making the Laurel more suited for users who prefer reduced force for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. The bottom out force for the Glory Yellow switch is unknown, whereas the KTT Laurel has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is considered light. Consequently, even though the actuation forces differ, users looking for a lighter overall feel would benefit from the Laurel, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may favor the heavier actuation of the Glory Yellow. Overall, the Laurel switch's lower actuation force makes it the lighter option, while the specifics of the Glory Yellow's bottom out force remain undetermined.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Glory Yellow has a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the more traditional switch distances, providing a deeper feel that some users prefer for a more tactile typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Laurel has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, appealing to gamers and those who favor quicker response times. This shorter distance can lead to a more rapid actuation, which may feel more responsive but can also be too abrupt for some users. Therefore, if you're looking for a more tactile response with a deeper sensation, the Glory Yellow is the better choice. If you prioritize speed and quicker actuation, the Laurel is more suitable. Ultimately, the decision depends on whether you prefer a hearty depth or a sprightly response in your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Yellow 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 Yellow for $4.19.
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 Gateron Glory Yellow switch offers a smooth and pleasant acoustic profile that enhances the typing experience. While exact details regarding its sound characteristics are unspecified, it is generally accepted that linear switches like the Glory Yellow tend to be quieter than tactile or clicky switches, allowing for a more subdued typing environment. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel switch is noted for its subtly low-pitched sound profile, which contributes to a typing experience that is quieter yet has a depth that can be described as mellower and more bass-heavy. This low-pitched aspect typically provides a more enjoyable auditory experience, especially for those who prefer a discreet keystroke without sacrificing engagement.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Gateron Glory Yellow is known for its smooth keystroke and a satisfying travel distance, which makes for a very enjoyable typing experience. This smoothness is a hallmark of linear switches, designed specifically to provide minimal resistance during the keypress. In contrast, the KTT Laurel is characterized as snappy, providing a more responsive typing experience. Its medium-light weight and unique long pole design contribute to a lively and agile feel during use. Users who prefer a more tactile sensation while typing might find the KTT Laurel’s snappy quality more to their liking, while those who enjoy a smooth and effortless feel might gravitate towards the Glory Yellow.
Overall, both the Gateron Glory Yellow and the KTT Laurel linear switches offer unique audio and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Glory Yellow is suited to those who favor smoothness and a pleasant distance in their keystrokes, while the KTT Laurel appeals to users who enjoy a responsive and snappy feel with a low-pitched sound. While their subjective qualities diverge slightly, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying and engaging typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two may come down to personal preference regarding weight, responsiveness, and sound profile.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, your decision should be guided by your specific preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a smooth keystroke and a longer travel distance that enhances your typing experience, the Glory Yellow is your go-to option. This switch might be ideal for those who enjoy a heavier feel and want to engage deeply with their mechanical keyboard's tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a light, responsive switch that strikes a balance between comfort and quick actuation, the KTT Laurel would be the better choice. Not only does it offer a subtle low-pitched sound for a more refined auditory experience, but its snappy response also makes it suitable for fast typists or gamers seeking speed. Ultimately, your choice depends on whether you prefer the plush experience of the Glory Yellow or the brisk feedback of the KTT Laurel, both of which cater to different types of keyboard enthusiasts.
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