KTT Glimp vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Glimp and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear. The Glimp is a linear switch that strikes the perfect balance for those seeking a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. It offers tactile feedback, comfortable actuation force, and a fairly clacky sound profile, adding an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear is also a linear switch known for its smooth, high-pitched typing experience. It features a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, allowing for maximum RGB lighting customization. The POM stem is lightly lubed, providing minimal friction and a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Glimp and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which results in a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits from the polycarbonate top housings in both the Glimp and the WS Aurora Clear. Whether typing or releasing keys, the top housing will play a significant role in the resulting sound experience.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the KTT Glimp uses nylon while the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear utilizes UHWMPE. Nylon, being a softer plastic, creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. Its ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics contributes to a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, UHWMPE is a newer material choice for switch housings which offers a bright sound signature. This material produces resonant clacks when typing, providing a distinct and unique auditory experience. The different bottom housing materials in the Glimp and the WS Aurora Clear will affect the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down.
In summary, both the KTT Glimp and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear share the benefit of polycarbonate top housings, resulting in a sharper and more resonant sound. However, they diverge in their choice of bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing in the Glimp generates a deeper and fuller sound, while the UHWMPE bottom housing in the WS Aurora Clear creates bright and resonant clacks. The decision to use different materials for the bottom housings splits the specific sound qualities between the press down and release of the keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, there are notable differences. The actuation force of the Glimp switch is 43 grams, which is lighter compared to the WS Aurora Clear's actuation force of 53 grams. Similarly, in terms of bottom out force, the Glimp switch requires 53 grams of force, whereas the WS Aurora Clear switch requires a heavier 63.5 grams for bottoming out.
This difference in force can greatly impact the typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Glimp switch would be ideal as it provides a medium-light actuation and bottom out force. This lighter touch allows for extended periods of typing without causing excessive strain. Additionally, individuals who frequently type for long hours, either for work or gaming purposes, may find the Glimp switch to be more suitable due to its lighter actuation and bottom out force.
On the other hand, if a more substantial typing experience is desired, the WS Aurora Clear switch would be the preferred option. With its medium-heavy actuation and bottom out force, it provides a stronger push feel. This can result in a more satisfying and substantial keystroke for those who value the feedback and tactile sensation of a heavier switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Glimp and WS Aurora Clear switches depends on personal preference and desired typing experience. Those who prioritize lighter switches for longer typing sessions may opt for the Glimp, while individuals looking for a stronger push feel and more substantial typing experience may prefer the WS Aurora Clear.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0mm, which is a more traditional length. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8mm. This means that the WS Aurora Clear has a shorter distance to travel from the top to the bottom compared to the Glimp switch. The 3.8mm travel distance makes the WS Aurora Clear switch a suitable choice for gamers who prioritize faster response times. However, for those who prefer a more substantial and deeper press, the Glimp switch with its longer 4.0mm travel distance might be the preferred option. In summary, although there is a slight difference in their travel distances, both switches offer similar results and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired level of 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 Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00 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 KTT Glimp linear switch is best described as clacky. This means that it produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch has a high-pitched sound profile. When pressed, it produces a sharp and crisp sound that is more rich and bright. Both switches offer different sound profiles, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Glimp linear switch is described as creamy. This means that it offers a smooth and buttery typing experience. The lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used in the switch contribute to this silky sensation. Typing on the Glimp switch feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, as they effortlessly melt into each keystroke. In contrast, the WS Aurora Clear linear switch is described as having a buttery and polished feel. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Both switches offer a mildly gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable and comfortable.
Based on the information provided, the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch have different subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Glimp switch is known for its clacky sound and creamy feel, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience with a smooth and buttery sensation. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch offers a high-pitched sound and a buttery and polished feel, delivering a sharp and crisp typing experience with a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. Therefore, depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose the switch that best suits their typing style and requirements. In instances where users are looking for similar results, the Glimp and WS Aurora Clear switches provide similar qualities in terms of a mildly gentle typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a medium-light switch with a balanced typing experience and substantial tactile feedback, the KTT Glimp linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its comfortable actuation force and clacky sound profile add to the overall satisfaction of your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch is the way to go. With its transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, this switch offers a unique aesthetic appeal. Its lightly lubed POM stem ensures minimal friction and a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. Ultimately, both switches have their distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, so it comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Mentioned in this article
