KTT Glimp vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Brown, we can see clear differences in their design and functionality. The Glimp, a linear switch, is renowned for its medium-light feel that offers a satisfying typing experience with tactile feedback and a comfortable actuation force. Its fairly clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to typing sessions, making it a popular choice for those seeking a balance between typing comfort and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown, a tactile switch, offers a different typing experience with its distinct tactile bump that provides feedback during key presses. While the Glimp switch is categorized as clacky, creamy, mild, and neutral, the Brown switch does not fit into any specific category. When choosing between these switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style; however, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can determine the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Polycarbonate
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
Both the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Brown switches feature a top housing made of polycarbonate, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant illumination. The similarity in their top housing materials ensures that users can expect a consistent sound profile from both switches, making them suitable choices for those seeking a distinct auditory experience.
While both switches have a polycarbonate top housing, they differ in their bottom housing material. The Glimp utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature and its ability to absorb more sound. Conversely, the Brown also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The common use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches highlights its classic appeal and the impact it has on overall sound quality.
When comparing the two switches, it is important to consider the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience. While the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. By understanding how each material affects the sound profile, users can make an informed decision based on their preferences for a sharper, crisper sound (polycarbonate) or a deeper, fuller sound (nylon). Overall, both the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Brown switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, we see a clear difference in weight. The Glimp has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option. In contrast, the Brown switch has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. These differences in weight highlight the Glimp as the lighter option, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Brown switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience, catering to individual preferences for a lighter or heavier key press.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel of 4 mm. This similarity allows for consistent typing experiences regardless of which switch is being used. Ultimately, the travel distance of both switches being the same ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key feel and performance.
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 Brown 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Glimp linear switch is best described as having a fairly clacky profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound that adds an enjoyable auditory element to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown tactile switch's sound characteristics are unknown. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard, keycaps, and typing technique, so it's important to consider these aspects when evaluating the overall sound experience.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Glimp linear switch is often praised for its creamy feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys. This sensation is achieved through factors such as lubrication within the switch or specific materials used in its construction. In contrast, the Outemu Brown tactile switch's feel characteristics are unknown. It's worth noting that a creamy or mild typing experience can greatly enhance typing comfort and overall tactile feedback, making the typing experience more enjoyable for users.
In conclusion, the KTT Glimp linear switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and creamy typing feel, offering a satisfying and responsive typing experience for users seeking a medium-light switch with tactile feedback. While the sound and feel characteristics of the Outemu Brown tactile switch remain unknown, it's important to consider individual preferences, typing habits, and environmental factors when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, both switches may offer similar results in terms of subjective qualities if chosen based on personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you value a medium-light switch with tactile feedback, a comfortable actuation force, and a clacky sound profile, the Glimp switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a neutral sound profile, the Brown switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice should align with your specific typing needs and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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