KTT Glimp vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Glimp linear switch to the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is evident that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Glimp switch is praised for its medium-light actuation force, tactile feedback, and clacky sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a responsive typing experience with a bit of auditory satisfaction. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch is known for its thocky sound profile, smooth keystrokes, and fully nylon construction, providing enthusiasts with a distinct and enjoyable typing feel. While the Glimp switch offers a balanced typing experience, the Cold Plum switch stands out with its unique sound and smooth keystrokes. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
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
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Cold Plum, one key difference lies in the top housing material used. The Glimp utilizes polycarbonate, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Cold Plum features a nylon top housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound. The polycarbonate top housing of the Glimp is also translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects, whereas the nylon top housing of the Cold Plum provides a classic feel and sound to the switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Glimp and the Cold Plum feature nylon bottom housings. This commonality means that both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The presence of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound upon bottoming out the keys, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel across both switches.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Cold Plum differ in terms of sound profiles, both switches exhibit similar qualities in their bottom housing materials. The choice between the Glimp's polycarbonate top housing and the Cold Plum's nylon top housing ultimately comes down to personal preference in the type of sound one desires while typing. Additionally, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when bottoming out the keys.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch differ significantly. The Glimp has a lighter actuation force at 43 grams compared to the Cold Plum's heavier 60 grams. Similarly, the Glimp has a lighter bottom out force at 53 grams, while the Cold Plum requires a heavier 70 grams to bottom out. The Glimp can provide a smoother and less taxing typing experience ideal for prolonged use, such as during long work sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Cold Plum offers a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, appealing to those who prefer a firmer keypress. In terms of weight, both switches offer contrasting options suitable for different preferences, ensuring users can select the one that best suits their typing style and needs.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is evident that the Glimp has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Cold Plum. Generally, a 4.0mm travel distance is considered to be more traditional, while a 3.0mm distance is shallower. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Cold Plum a more favorable choice in this regard. However, some users may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, opting instead for the deeper feel of a longer travel distance like the Glimp. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance to achieve the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Cold Plum 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 Glimp linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, which provides a sharp and snappy auditory experience when typing. This sound can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive, adding an enjoyable element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is unknown, so it is difficult to compare the two in terms of sound. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Glimp linear switch is praised for its creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery feel when typing. This sensation is often attributed to the inclusion of lubricant in the switch or specific materials used in its construction, providing a silky sensation as you type. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is not described, making it challenging to compare the two switches in terms of typing feel. However, it is safe to assume that both switches offer a comfortable and satisfying typing experience based on their linear design.
Overall, the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Glimp switch is known for its clacky sound profile and creamy typing feel, the Cold Plum switch offers a thocky sound profile and a smooth keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If you enjoy clacky sounds and a creamy typing feel, the Glimp switch may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky sound profile and a smooth keystroke, the Cold Plum switch could be the better option. Regardless of your choice, both switches are sure to provide a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, consider the factors of actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a clacky sound profile with a creamy typing feel, the Glimp switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a thocky sound profile with a mild typing feel, the Cold Plum switch could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. Choose the switch that best suits your needs and enhances your typing experience.
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