KTT Glimp vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, there are distinct differences to consider. The KTT Glimp is renowned for its medium-light feel, striking a balance between a satisfying typing experience and manageable resistance. With tactile feedback and comfortable actuation force, it provides a responsive and enjoyable typing feel, accompanied by a fairly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean offers a different experience with its silent operation. Choosing between the two switches boils down to personal preferences - whether you prefer a tactile and clacky typing experience with the Glimp, or a silent and smooth typing feel with the Silent Ocean. 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
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Overall, the housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Silent Ocean have some similarities and differences. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This makes them ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality and clarity, especially when paired with RGB lighting. However, the Glimp's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing. The softer nylon material in the bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound overall.
The split housing design of switches with different top and bottom materials means that each contributes distinct qualities to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing, such as the nylon material in both the Glimp and Silent Ocean, has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. This allows for a more tactile and satisfying typing experience, especially for those who prefer a deeper sound profile. Conversely, the top housing material, such as the polycarbonate used in both switches, affects the sound when releasing a key, adding to the overall crispness and clarity of the typing sound.
In conclusion, while both the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Silent Ocean utilize polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the different combinations of these materials result in slightly different sound profiles. The Glimp's combination of polycarbonate and nylon produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Silent Ocean's combination tends to be more high-pitched and crisper. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Weight
In comparing the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The KTT Glimp has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Outemu Silent Ocean features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a considerably heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. The Glimp offers a medium-light typing experience, while the Silent Ocean provides a medium-heavy feel. For those who prefer a lighter touch and a more fluid typing experience, the Glimp would be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a firmer push and a more substantial typing feel may find the Silent Ocean to be more suited to their preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it is clear that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect a consistent feel when pressing down on keys with either switch, as the distance traveled from the top to the bottom is identical. Both switches offer a standard key press experience in terms of travel distance, allowing users to choose between the Glimp and Silent Ocean based on other factors such as sound level and actuation force. Ultimately, whether using the Glimp or Silent Ocean switch, users can expect a similar key press experience in terms of 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 Ocean 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 offers a clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This adds a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory element to your typing experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the typing feel, the KTT Glimp linear switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This sensation is achieved through the application of lubricant within the switch or specific materials used, resulting in a silky feeling as your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch does not have a specific description provided for its typing feel, making it challenging to directly compare the two switches in this aspect.
Overall, while the subjective qualities of the KTT Glimp linear switch in terms of sound and feel have been detailed, the information available for the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is limited. Therefore, it is difficult to provide a comprehensive comparison between the two switches based solely on the provided information. However, if the Silent Ocean switch offers similar characteristics in terms of actuation force and typing experience as the Glimp switch, users can expect to achieve comparable results in both sound and feel when using either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a medium-light switch with tactile feedback, a clacky sound profile, and a creamy feel, then the Glimp switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with neutral sound and a mild feel, the Silent Ocean switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what type of typing experience you are looking for.
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