KTT Glimp vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Dustproof Red both offer unique features to consider. The KTT Glimp is a linear switch that is well-loved for its medium-light weight, striking a perfect balance for users who prefer a substantial yet not overwhelming typing experience. With tactile feedback and a comfortable actuation force, the Glimp switch provides a satisfying and responsive typing feel, enhanced by its clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red is also a linear switch, known for its durability with a dustproof design. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help determine which switch would best suit your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Both the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which provides a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, their differences lie in their bottom housing. The Glimp features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Conversely, the Dustproof Red also uses a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the same deep and full sound characteristics.
Despite their similar top housing material, the differences in the bottom housing of the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This split in housing materials means that the qualities of each material are felt differently when typing on the switches. The impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, while the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches may share a polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound profile, their differences in bottom housing material offer unique tactile experiences when typing. Both switches benefit from nylon bottom housings, absorbing sound for a deep and full typing experience. These differences in housing materials showcase the importance of material choice in switch design, highlighting how variations in stiffness and sound absorption can impact the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, we see a few differences. The Glimp has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Dustproof Red's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Glimp requires 53 grams while the Dustproof Red needs 60 grams, making the Glimp the lighter switch overall. Both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of actuation force, but the Dustproof Red is slightly heavier when it comes to bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Glimp may be the better option, while those who like a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Dustproof Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same level of key travel. Both switches offer a consistent and smooth typing experience, making them suitable options for those who prefer a linear feel. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users can expect similar results in terms of key travel and typing feedback. Overall, whether you choose the KTT Glimp or the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, you can expect a consistent and reliable typing experience with a travel distance of 4mm.
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 Dustproof Red 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 Glimp linear switch is known for its medium-light actuation force, tactile feedback, and comfortable typing experience. The switch offers a satisfying and responsive feel with a fairly clacky sound profile, providing an enjoyable auditory element to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch does not have any known subjective qualities related to sound or feel. Therefore, if one were to use the Glimp switch, they can expect a creamy and mild typing experience with a clacky sound, while the Dustproof Red switch remains a mystery in terms of these qualities. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and sound profile, with the Glimp offering a more well-defined experience based on available information.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, you should choose the Glimp if you prefer a medium-light switch with tactile feedback, a clacky sound profile, and a creamy feel for a satisfying and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, you should choose the Dustproof Red if you prefer a medium switch with no specific standout features in terms of sound or feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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