KTT Glimp vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Glimp and Outemu Purple offer unique typing experiences worth considering. The KTT Glimp is a linear switch that boasts a medium-light actuation force, making it ideal for those who enjoy a satisfying typing feel without overwhelming resistance. Its tactile feedback and fairly clacky sound profile add to the overall typing experience, making it a popular choice for many. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple is a tactile switch that provides a different typing experience altogether. While it may not have a specific standout feature like the Glimp, its categorization as clacky, creamy, mild, neutral may still appeal to certain typists. 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
N/A
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 Purple utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. With both switches using the same material for their top housings, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics.
On the other hand, the Glimp and the Purple differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Glimp using nylon and the Purple also opting for nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. Despite the difference in bottom housing material, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their use of nylon for this component.
The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings in a switch is evident in both the Glimp and the Purple. When pressing down on these switches, users will feel the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel. The top housing, on the other hand, influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of housing materials allows for a balance of different sound profiles and tactile experiences in the overall typing experience offered by these switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the Glimp is lighter in terms of actuation force at 43 grams compared to the Purple's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Glimp is heavier at 53 grams, while the Purple's bottom out force is unknown. The Glimp provides a medium-light typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Purple switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and whether a lighter or heavier touch is desired for the typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both the Glimp and Purple switches will provide similar results.
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 Purple 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
Overall, when comparing the sound and feel of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is clear that the Glimp offers a unique experience with its clacky sound profile and creamy feel. The Glimp switch provides a sharp and snappy sound that adds an auditory element to typing sessions, while also offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that is effortless and enjoyable. In contrast, not much information is available on the sound and feel of the Outemu Purple switch, making it difficult to directly compare to the Glimp. However, based on the qualities of the Glimp switch, it is likely that the Outemu Purple switch may provide a moderate and comfortable typing experience with a satisfactory tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you value a medium-light switch with tactile feedback, a clacky sound profile, and a creamy feel, then the Glimp switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with an unknown bottom out force and no specific sound or feel characteristics, then the Purple switch may be a suitable option. Consider your typing style, preferences, and priorities to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
