Bsun Cliff vs. KTT Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the KTT Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, preferences often hinge on typing feel and sound profile. The Bsun Cliff tactile switch is known for its medium tactility, providing a satisfying bump that offers both feedback and a crisp sound signature, making it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy a tactile sensation without excessive noise. In contrast, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch stands out for its uniquely bouncy typing experience and its distinctively clacky sound, thanks to a shortened bottom-out distance and a long-pole stem that enhances resonant audio feedback. While the Cliff caters to those seeking a balanced tactile experience, the Cream Yellow appeals to gamers and typists who revel in a smooth keystroke with an added auditory flair. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Cliff and the KTT Cream Yellow switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in an identical acoustic profile characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The use of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic, allows for a clearer and more resonant audio experience, which is particularly accentuated when the switch is used in conjunction with RGB lighting. Both switches, with their translucent top housings, provide an aesthetic advantage, making them visually appealing for users looking to enhance their keyboard's lighting effects. The sonic clarity and brightness provided by the polycarbonate are consistent across both models, ensuring users will enjoy a crisp and vibrant audio feedback when typing.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the Bsun Cliff and KTT Cream Yellow differ, as both utilize nylon but likely in varying formulations or manufacturing processes. Nylon, known for its softer texture compared to polycarbonate, absorbs sound more effectively, yielding a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic allows for a more muted bottom-out feel, enhancing the typing experience with a rounded audio signature. While both switches share the nylon material in their bottom housings, any differences in design or thickness might slightly affect the overall acoustics and feel when typing, translating into nuanced user experiences.
When combined, the polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing of both switches create a harmonized sound profile. The pronounced and crisp sound from the polycarbonate blends with the softer, fuller tones from the nylon, offering a versatile typing experience that caters to a wide range of preferences. Although both switches may share similar top and bottom housing materials, any subtle design or formulation variations could lead to distinct auditory and tactile experiences. Therefore, users can expect an enjoyable mix of sound dynamics regardless of the specific switch choice, thanks to the complementary qualities of the top and bottom housing materials used in both the Bsun Cliff and KTT Cream Yellow switches.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch to the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces arise, impacting their overall typing experience. The Bsun Cliff has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a softer touch and longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the KTT Cream Yellow features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel when typing. This position makes the Cream Yellow more suitable for users who prefer a stronger tactile feedback. Overall, the Cliff is the lighter option, while the Cream Yellow is heavier, offering distinct experiences that cater to varying preferences in typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, the Cliff measures 3.6 mm, while the Cream Yellow is slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This makes the Bsun Cliff the longer option by a margin of 0.1 mm. The difference in travel distance may influence user experience; those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke might gravitate towards the Cliff for its greater depth, whereas gamers or users seeking quicker response times might favor the Cream Yellow for its shorter travel distance. Overall, while both switches offer a relatively similar feel, the Cliff provides just a bit more depth for those who enjoy a tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, it’s important to note that the Cliff offers a medium tactility accompanied by a crisp sound signature. This means that while it provides feedback during typing, the sound produced tends to be more controlled and subtle, making it suitable for quieter environments. Conversely, the Cream Yellow switch is designed to be distinctly clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound with a bright, percussive quality. Its construction, including the shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, contributes to this resonant audio experience, making it ideal for users who enjoy auditory feedback that is lively and engaging. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches in terms of sound will depend on whether you prefer a more muted, tactile response or a louder, more pronounced auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch provides a medium level of tactility that is likely to engage the typist effectively without being overwhelming. This tactile feedback can enhance the overall approach to typing, giving a satisfying acknowledgment of key presses. The KTT Cream Yellow, however, emphasizes a bouncy feeling due to its unique spring configuration. This elasticity delivers a spring-like response, which may make it feel more lively and energetic with each key press. When using the Cream Yellow, typists can expect a rebounding sensation upon key release, which is less pronounced in the Cliff switch. Thus, if you value a lively and elastic typing experience, the Cream Yellow may be more appealing, whereas the Cliff provides a more moderate yet satisfying tactile engagement.
In summary, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch delivers a controlled, crisp sound experience coupled with moderate tactile feedback, making it suitable for those who appreciate subtlety during typing. On the other hand, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch stands out with its distinctly clacky sound and bouncy feel, appealing to users who enjoy robust auditory feedback and lively key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these two will hinge on personal preference: if you value subtlety and tactility, choose the Cliff, while those seeking a more dynamic auditory and tactile experience may gravitate toward the Cream Yellow.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch should be guided by your individual preferences and typing experience. If you prioritize a lighter feel with a medium tactile bump and enjoy a crisp sound signature, the Cliff is an excellent option, especially for tasks that require precision and a more feedback-oriented experience. It’s well-suited for typing or gaming environments where you want to minimize finger fatigue while still getting satisfying tactile confirmation. Conversely, if you’re drawn to a more engaging and lively typing experience with a distinctively clacky sound, the KTT Cream Yellow would be the way to go. Its heavier actuation force and bouncy feel cater to those who appreciate an energetic feedback with each keystroke, making it ideal for rapid typing or gaming sessions where auditory feedback enhances your engagement. Ultimately, both switches offer unique advantages, so consider the type of work or gaming you intend to do, as well as your sound and feel preferences, to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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