KTT Glimp vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the KTT Glimp, a linear switch, and the Outemu Crystal Brown, a tactile switch. The Glimp switch is praised for its medium-light actuation force, providing a satisfying typing experience with tactile feedback that strikes a perfect balance for those who prefer a smoother feel without overwhelming resistance. The fairly clacky sound profile adds an enjoyable auditory element to typing sessions. Meanwhile, the Crystal Brown switch offers a tactile typing experience that is smooth and responsive, appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced bump in their keystrokes. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 Crystal Brown, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate which leads to a clear and resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. The Glimp and the Crystal Brown's polycarbonate top housings share these qualities, providing users with a similar auditory and visual experience.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Crystal Brown differ. The Glimp features a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound while typing. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown also features a nylon bottom housing which offers the same qualities in terms of sound profile and typing experience. Despite the difference in top housing materials, the nylon bottom housings of both switches contribute to a similar overall typing experience.
It is important to note that the qualities of each housing material, whether polycarbonate or nylon, are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This means that users of both the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Crystal Brown will experience a blend of the unique qualities of both housing materials when typing, resulting in a satisfying and well-rounded typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch are quite similar. The Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of force required. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may enjoy either of these switches for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel, they may lean towards switches with a heavier force requirement. Ultimately, both the Glimp and Crystal Brown switches offer a balance between actuation and bottom out forces, providing a comfortable and responsive typing experience for various preferences.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the key travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. As a result, the travel distance for both switches is equal, providing a similar typing experience in terms of key travel. Players who prefer a shorter travel distance may find these switches ideal, as they offer a more responsive typing experience compared to switches with longer travel distances.
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 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Glimp linear switch is known for its clacky profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, adding a satisfying auditory element to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has no known sound description provided. It is worth mentioning that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Glimp linear switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys with each keystroke. The actuation force of the switch is comfortable, providing a tactile feedback that enhances the typing feel. In contrast, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has no known feel description provided. It is essential to note that the feel of a switch can greatly impact the typing experience and overall satisfaction for users.
After comparing the subjective qualities of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Glimp switch offers a distinct clacky sound profile and a creamy typing feel, providing a satisfying and responsive typing experience. While the qualities of the Crystal Brown switch remain unknown, it is essential to consider individual preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches can offer a enjoyable typing experience, with similar results in certain aspects if the unknown qualities align with the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, you should choose the Glimp if you prefer a medium-light switch with tactile feedback, a clacky sound profile, and a creamy typing experience. The Glimp strikes a balance between typing experience and resistance, making it a satisfying option for those who enjoy a responsive and enjoyable typing feel. On the other hand, you should opt for the Crystal Brown if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a moderate sound profile and a more gentle typing experience. The Crystal Brown offers a neutral feel without any specific descriptors, making it a safe choice for various preferences. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal typing style and preferences in sound and feel.
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