KTT Glimp vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Glimp linear switch to the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Glimp is renowned for its medium-light actuation force and tactile feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience with a fairly clacky sound profile that adds an enjoyable auditory element. On the other hand, the Silent Green is known for being silent and does not fall into any specific category. While the Glimp may appeal to those looking for a more immersive typing experience, the Silent Green may be preferred by those who prioritize a noiseless environment. 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
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Silent Green, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the Glimp utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which gives it a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Silent Green's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material for the bottom housing.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, the difference in bottom housing materials impacts the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches. The Glimp's nylon bottom housing creates a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Silent Green's polycarbonate bottom housing enhances the sharpness and crispness of the keystrokes. This split in housing materials allows for a distinct tactile experience when using each switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical keyboard switches plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of typing on a keyboard. While both the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Silent Green utilize polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the difference in bottom housing material sets them apart. The Glimp's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the Silent Green's polycarbonate bottom housing that maintains a sharper and clearer sound. These differences highlight the importance of housing materials in creating a unique typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The KTT Glimp linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Glimp requires 53 grams while the Silent Green needs 60 grams, making the Glimp the lighter option overall. Both switches fall into the medium category in terms of actuation force, but the Silent Green is slightly heavier when it comes to bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience and want to avoid fatigue during long typing sessions, the Glimp may be the better choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more robust and substantial typing feel may lean towards the Silent Green. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom will be the same. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will experience a consistent typing feel and performance regardless of which switch they choose. This makes them both suitable options for those who prefer a linear switch with a 4 mm travel distance.
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 Silent Green 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 fairly clacky sound profile, which produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, adding a crisp and bright auditory element to typing sessions. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Silent Green linear switch's sound profile is not available, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Glimp linear switch is described as offering a creamy typing experience, with a smooth and buttery feel that allows for effortless keystrokes. This is achieved through the application of lubricant in the switch, providing a silky sensation akin to gliding fingers across the keys. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Green linear switch's feel characteristics are unknown, but it is safe to assume that it may offer a mild typing experience based on the lack of extreme descriptors.
Overall, while the sound and feel qualities of the KTT Glimp linear switch have been detailed, information on the Outemu Silent Green linear switch is lacking. However, if both switches are linear switches, it is likely that they will offer similar results in terms of smooth keystrokes and minimal resistance, with the main differences potentially lying in sound profiles. To make an informed decision between the two switches, it is recommended to consider personal preferences regarding typing sound and feel, as well as additional factors such as keyboard setup and keycap choices.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, typing experience, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a tactile feedback with a fairly clacky sound profile, the Glimp switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and a silent typing experience without any specific sound or feel description, the Silent Green switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the typing experience you are looking for.