Outemu Crystal vs. KTT Glimp
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Glimp switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options worth considering are the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Glimp. The Crystal switch stands out for its unique linear typing experience, boasting a fairly elastic feel and a medium-light weight. This combination results in a typing sensation unlike any other. Furthermore, the Crystal switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Glimp switch strikes the perfect balance for users seeking a substantial typing experience without overwhelming resistance. With its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, the Glimp switch provides a satisfying and responsive typing feel. Additionally, its fairly clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can make an informed decision about which switch is best suited for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Glimp have some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Crystal and the Glimp provide similar sound profiles and aesthetics with their polycarbonate top housings.
However, the bottom housings of these switches diverge in their materials. The Crystal employs polycarbonate in its bottom housing, continuing the trend of a crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Glimp features a nylon bottom housing, which imparts a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This contrast between the Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing and the Glimp's nylon bottom housing gives each switch a unique sound sensation when bottoming out a key.
When examining the overall impact of the housing materials, it is important to consider their influence on keypresses. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the tactile feedback when pressing a key. In contrast, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, for both the Crystal and the Glimp, the qualities of their respective bottom and top housings dictate the overall typing experience by modifying the sounds and sensations during keypresses.
In summary, while the Outemu Crystal and the KTT Glimp share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, they differ in their bottom housings with the Crystal utilizing polycarbonate and the Glimp opting for nylon. This contrast results in the Crystal offering a crisper sound profile throughout the keypress, while the Glimp provides a deeper and fuller sound during the bottom-out phase. However, both switches exhibit similar properties in their top housings, enabling them to deliver a sharp and resonant sound profile suitable for RGB lighting setups. Ultimately, the combination of materials in the top and bottom housings of these switches contributes to the overall typing experience and the unique sound sensations they offer.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, there are subtle differences between the two. The Crystal switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams as compared to the Glimp switch's 43 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Crystal requires 55 grams of force, while the Glimp requires 53 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light category, offering a balance between ease of typing and a satisfying tactile response. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience with these switches. However, for those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions, the Glimp switch might be the better choice. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience may lean towards the Crystal switch due to its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the decision should be based on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch plays a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience. In the case of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch, both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you can expect a consistent and similar feel in terms of the distance traveled. Therefore, users can anticipate getting comparable results in terms of tactile feedback and key press responsiveness, as both switches have the same travel distance.
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 Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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 Outemu Crystal linear switch has a unique acoustic signature. It is described as chirpy, with a little squeak to them. This sets the Crystal switches apart from others and provides a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Glimp linear switch has a fairly clacky sound profile. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. With both switches, you can expect a neutral sound profile as well, which means they don't lean towards being too high-pitched or bassy.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for its polished feel. This indicates that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. It achieves reduced friction and smooth key travel, providing a satisfying tactile feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Glimp linear switch offers a creamy typing experience. This means that it provides a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. It feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, as they effortlessly melt into each keystroke. Additionally, the Glimp switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience without pronounced characteristics. Both switches provide a comfortable actuation force, making them approachable for most users.
Considering the available information, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the KTT Glimp linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal switch has a chirpy sound profile and a polished feel, providing a unique and sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Glimp switch has a clacky sound profile and a creamy feel, offering a satisfying and smooth typing experience. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes and skill levels. When choosing between these switches, consider your personal preferences and whether you prefer a more unique and refined typing experience (Crystal) or a snappy and buttery typing experience (Glimp).
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a unique, linear typing experience with a medium-light weight, then the Outemu Crystal linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches have a fairly elastic type feel, providing a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the neutral sound profile of the Crystals ensures a pleasant auditory element to your typing sessions. However, if you prefer a switch that strikes a balance between substantial typing experience and comfortable actuation force, then the KTT Glimp linear switch would be more suitable for you. With its tactile feedback and medium-light bottom out force, the Glimp switch offers a satisfying and responsive typing feel. Moreover, the fairly clacky sound profile of the Glimp adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. Overall, both switches provide unique qualities and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
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