KTT Glimp vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Silent Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, there are key differences to consider. The Glimp, a linear switch, is well-known for its medium-light actuation force and tactile feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience with a fairly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow, also a linear switch, offers a quieter typing experience. While both switches offer smooth actuation, the Glimp provides a more noticeable feedback and sound profile compared to the Silent Yellow. If you prefer a more tactile typing experience with a bit of noise, the Glimp switch may be the better choice for you. 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
2.20 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
The housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Silent Yellow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This material is ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, while the top housings are the same, the Glimp uses a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. In contrast, the Silent Yellow also features a nylon bottom housing that provides a similar deep and full sound, making both switches suitable for those seeking a more muffled sound profile.
In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate top housings of both the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Silent Yellow offer a visually appealing look that is commonly associated with polycarbonate material. Additionally, the nylon bottom housings of both switches maintain their classic appeal, with the Glimp offering a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the crisper sound produced by the Silent Yellow. While the Glimp may provide a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel due to its nylon bottom housing, the Silent Yellow offers a slightly different typing experience with a similar deep and full sound profile.
Overall, the housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Silent Yellow play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp and crisp sound, their differing bottom housing materials - nylon for the Glimp and Silent Yellow - lead to distinct differences in sound characteristics. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings highlight how each component contributes to the overall typing experience, with the Glimp offering a more impactful bottom-out sound and the Silent Yellow providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, both switches cater to the preferences of users looking for specific sound profiles and typing sensations.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is clear that there is a significant difference in weight between the two. The Glimp has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Silent Yellow has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, categorizing it as a heavy switch. The lighter actuation force of the Glimp may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the heavier actuation force of the Silent Yellow provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired amount of force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled. This similarity allows for consistent typing experiences between the two switches. In terms of travel distance, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, as they both cover the same 4 mm distance when pressed. Overall, whether you opt for the KTT Glimp or the Outemu Silent Yellow, you can expect to get similar results in terms of key 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 Yellow 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 it comes to sound, the KTT Glimp switch offers a clacky profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp and percussive. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch's sound profile is unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Glimp switch is known for its creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. This is due to the lubricant applied in the switch or specific materials used, allowing for effortless keystrokes. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch's feel is not specified. The Glimp switch also falls under the mild category, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
In conclusion, the KTT Glimp linear switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and creamy, mild feel, offering a satisfying and responsive typing experience for users seeking a balance between tactile feedback and actuation force. While the specific sound and feel characteristics of the Outemu Silent Yellow switch are unknown in this comparison, it is likely that users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel with both switches due to their linear nature. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and requirements for typing feel and sound profiles.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you value a medium-light bottom out force, tactile feedback, and a clacky sound profile, the KTT Glimp switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a silent typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch may suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what typing feel and sound profile you find most appealing.
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