KTT Glimp vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up for consideration are the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Blue Jade. The Glimp is a linear switch that is best known for its medium-light feel, providing just the right amount of resistance for a comfortable typing experience. With its tactile feedback and satisfying actuation force, the Glimp switch is ideal for those who enjoy a responsive typing feel. On the other hand, the Blue Jade is a clicky switch that offers a different typing experience. While not as well-known as the Glimp, the Blue Jade switch is characterized by its satisfying click sound with each keystroke. It is perfect for those who enjoy a more auditory typing experience. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Blue Jade, it is evident that they differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Glimp's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, high-pitched sound, perfect for users looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Blue Jade's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. While both materials excel in providing unique sound profiles, users have the option to choose between a crisper sound with the Glimp or a more rounded sound with the Blue Jade.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Glimp and the Blue Jade utilize nylon for this component, emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon allows for sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite having the same bottom housing material, the top housings of the two switches differ, offering users a choice between a sharper sound with the Glimp's polycarbonate top housing or a deeper sound with the Blue Jade's nylon top housing. It is important to note that the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, while the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Blue Jade present users with distinct sound profiles based on their composition. The Glimp's utilization of polycarbonate in the top housing results in a sharper, crisper sound, ideal for those seeking clarity in their typing experience. Conversely, the Blue Jade's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, perfect for users looking for a more rounded typing feel. Despite both switches featuring nylon bottom housings for a consistent deep sound profile, the choice between a sharper or deeper sound ultimately rests on the selection of the top housing material. Overall, users can expect a satisfying and unique typing experience with either the Glimp or the Blue Jade, depending on their preference for sound characteristics.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it is clear that the Glimp is lighter overall. The Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Blue Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Glimp provides a lighter typing experience compared to the Blue Jade, which offers a more substantial push feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may lean towards the Glimp, while those who enjoy a more tactile and heavier typing experience may prefer the Blue Jade. Both switches provide distinct typing experiences due to their differences in actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This makes them both suitable options for those who prefer a standard travel distance in their mechanical keyboard switches. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches allows for a consistent typing experience regardless of which one is chosen.
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 Blue Jade comes in at $3.10 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
The KTT Glimp linear switch offers a clacky sound profile, adding a sharp and percussive auditory element to your typing sessions. This sound is complemented by its tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, providing a satisfying and responsive typing feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch does not have a specific sound description available, so it may offer a different auditory experience. Moving on to the feel, the Glimp switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys. In comparison, the Blue Jade switch does not have a specific feel description provided, making it uncertain how it would compare in terms of typing sensation.
In conclusion, the KTT Glimp linear switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and creamy typing feel, appealing to those seeking a medium-light switch that strikes a balance between tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch lacks specific descriptions for both sound and feel, making it difficult to directly compare to the Glimp switch. If you enjoy the clacky sound and creamy feel of the Glimp switch, you may find similar results with other switches that offer a similar combination of characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as well as any additional factors such as keycap and keyboard choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a satisfying tactile feedback and responsive typing experience, the KTT Glimp linear switch would be a great choice for you. Its clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a clicky sound profile, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing experience, sound profile, and bottom out force. Consider these factors carefully when choosing the switch that best suits your needs.
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