KTT Glimp vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Silver, both of which are linear switches. The KTT Glimp is renowned for its medium-light actuation force, providing a satisfying tactile feedback without overwhelming resistance. Its unique 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Mild', and 'Neutral' sound profile adds an auditory element to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver is known for its simplicity and straightforward design, offering a smooth linear feel without any additional features. While the Glimp switch may appeal to those looking for a more dynamic typing experience, the Silver switch is perfect for users who prefer a minimalistic approach. 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
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 Silver both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, 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. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Glimp is made of nylon, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the Silver's nylon bottom housing provides a similar effect, showcasing the classic qualities of nylon in switch housing materials.
While both the Glimp and Silver switches share the use of polycarbonate for the top housing, their nylon bottom housings offer a point of differentiation. The nylon bottom housing of the Glimp creates a unique sound experience, emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Silver's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a similar effect, showcasing the classic characteristics of nylon in switch housing materials. This split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch allows for distinct sound qualities to be felt when typing on the switches. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel is complemented by the top housing's influence on sound when releasing a key, offering a balanced and dynamic typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the KTT Glimp and the Outemu Silver contribute to a unique sound signature for each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a crisp and clear sound profile, their nylon bottom housings add depth and fullness to the overall sound experience. The use of different materials for the top and bottom housings allows for a balance between impact and release sounds when typing on the switches. Whether it's the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the fuller sound of nylon, both the Glimp and Silver switches offer a distinct typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Glimp is lighter in terms of actuation force with 43 grams compared to the Silver's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Glimp is again lighter with 53 grams compared to the Silver's heavier 65 grams. The Glimp offers a more medium-light typing experience, while the Silver provides a medium-heavy feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Glimp for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Silver for a stronger push feel. Both switches have different actuation and bottom out forces, offering users the option to choose based on their personal preferences for typing.
Travel distance
The KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users will get comparable results in terms of keypress feel and overall typing experience. Both switches provide a standard travel distance, making them suitable choices for users who prefer a consistent typing experience.
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 Silver 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 linear switch is known for its clacky profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound that adds an exciting element to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver linear switch doesn't have a specific sound description provided, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, it's essential to consider that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Glimp switch offers a creamy typing experience, characterized by smooth and buttery keystrokes that provide a luxurious sensation while typing. In contrast, the Outemu Silver switch lacks a specific feel description. The absence of details regarding the feel of the Outemu Silver switch makes it challenging to draw a direct comparison with the KTT Glimp in this regard.
Overall, based on the available information, the KTT Glimp linear switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and creamy typing feel, providing a satisfying and responsive typing experience. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Silver linear switch are unknown in terms of sound and feel, it is essential to consider individual preferences and the overall typing setup when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, if the Outemu Silver has similar specifications in terms of actuation force and operating characteristics to the KTT Glimp, users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Glimp linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a medium-light switch with tactile feedback, a clacky sound profile, and a creamy feel, the Glimp switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a neutral sound profile and a mild feel, the Silver switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and actuation force.
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