KTT Ash Gray vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray and Outemu Cream Blue mechanical keyboard switches, we find a distinct difference in their design and functionality. The Ash Gray switch is praised for its tactile response, providing a light touch with a crisp actuation that strikes the perfect balance between noticeable feedback and effortless typing. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch lacks specific distinguishing features but is known to deliver a satisfying clicky sound with each keystroke. While the Ash Gray switch is classified as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', 'Neutral', the Cream Blue switch does not have clear categorizations. If you are looking for a switch that offers a comfortable typing experience with tactile feedback, the Ash Gray may be the ideal choice. Conversely, if you prefer a switch that produces a satisfying click sound without much resistance, the Cream Blue could be the better option. 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
38g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Outemu Cream Blue, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that typing on both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The result is a duller and rounder sound that is consistent across both switches. However, despite this similarity, the Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing while the Cream Blue utilizes a nylon top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Ash Gray creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a more resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, offering a different auditory experience for users.
One key difference between the two switches lies in the top housing material. The polycarbonate top housing of the Ash Gray provides a clear, translucent look that is perfect for users looking to showcase RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Cream Blue offers a classic appearance without the translucency of polycarbonate. Despite this cosmetic difference, both housing materials affect the sound profile of the switches in their own unique ways. The stiffer polycarbonate of the Ash Gray leads to a more clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon of the Cream Blue creates a deeper and fuller sound that is more absorbent of noise.
In terms of typing experience, the qualities of the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This means that users can expect a more pronounced difference in sound and feel between the two switches when pressing down on the keys compared to when releasing them. Despite these differences, both switches offer a premium typing experience with their unique housing materials, catering to different preferences in sound and aesthetics.
Weight
In comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Cream Blue has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Ash Gray switch provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it suitable for individuals who prefer a softer touch for longer typing sessions. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, catering to those who prefer a more tactile and pronounced keystroke. Both switches fall within the medium weight range, with the Ash Gray being lighter and the Cream Blue being heavier, providing users with different options based on their personal preferences. Ultimately, those looking for a lighter typing experience should opt for the Ash Gray switch, while individuals seeking a heavier and more tactile feel should choose the Cream Blue switch.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4mm. The Ash Gray's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Cream Blue's longer travel distance might be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately depends on personal preference when selecting the right switch for your keyboard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
The Outemu Cream Blue 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 Ash Gray tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch's sound profile is unknown. When considering the sound of these switches, it is important to note that factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps will also play a significant role in the overall sound produced.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering minimal resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force contributes to a comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch provides a mild typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is not specified. If it is similar to the Ash Gray in terms of feel, users can expect a comfortable and low-impact typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch excels in providing a tactile response that is both substantial and unobtrusive, with a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press feel. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch are unknown, if it follows a similar pattern to the Ash Gray, users can anticipate a pleasant typing experience with a moderate sound profile and gentle actuation force. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference regarding sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, consider your preference for actuation force and tactile feedback. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a tactile response that is subtle yet noticeable, the Ash Gray switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a heavier actuation force and a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Cream Blue switch could be the right fit for your typing style. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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