KTT Glimp vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Red both fall under the linear switch category, offering a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump. The KTT Glimp is praised for its medium-light actuation force, providing a satisfying typing experience with tactile feedback and a fairly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Red is known for its simple and straightforward design, offering a smooth typing experience without any additional features or characteristics. While the Glimp switch might appeal to those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience, the Red switch could be a solid choice for individuals looking for a straightforward and smooth keypress. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 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
The housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Red have some similarities and differences. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, the Glimp's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Red's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, the impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch may vary. The qualities brought by the bottom housing material will be more noticeable when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction suggests that the choice of housing materials in different parts of the switch can play a significant role in the overall typing experience.
Overall, both the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Red utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, creating a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness and clarity. The Glimp's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Red's nylon bottom housing, which creates a duller and rounder sound. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound profiles and typing feel can help users make informed decisions when choosing between switches for their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, we find that the Glimp is the lighter option with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Red is the heavier choice with an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range, but the Red requires slightly more force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Glimp. For those who prefer a lighter touch to type for extended periods, the Glimp may be the better option. Conversely, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the Red switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, which means users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of keypress depth. The similarity in travel distance indicates that both switches will provide a similar level of feedback and actuation force, making them ideal for users who prefer a shallower keypress. Despite their equal travel distances, the unique design and components of each switch may result in subtle differences in the overall typing feel and sound produced. However, users can expect consistent and reliable performance from both switches due to their identical 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 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
When comparing the sound of the KTT Glimp linear switch to the Outemu Red linear switch, the Glimp is known for its fairly clacky sound profile, which adds an enjoyable auditory element to typing sessions. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Red switch is not specified, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Glimp linear switch is described as offering a tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, resulting in a satisfying and responsive typing experience. Additionally, it is characterized as providing a creamy sensation, allowing for a smooth and buttery typing experience. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Red linear switch is not mentioned in the provided information, making it challenging to directly compare the two switches in terms of feel.
Overall, the KTT Glimp linear switch seems to offer a unique typing experience with its clacky sound profile, tactile feedback, and creamy feel, making it a popular choice for those seeking a medium-light switch option. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Red linear switch are not provided in the information given, it is suggested that similar results may be achieved in sound and feel based on individual preferences, choice of keyboard, and keycaps. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on the user's personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, you should consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a medium-light switch with tactile feedback and a clacky sound profile, the Glimp switch may be the ideal choice for you. The Glimp switch offers a satisfying and responsive typing feel without overwhelming resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with a smooth and gentle typing experience, the Red switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific typing feel you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
