KTT Cream Yellow vs. KTT F2
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the KTT F2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Cream Yellow and the KTT F2 both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Cream Yellow is known for its bouncy and clacky sound, providing a satisfyingly tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the F2 stands out with its distinct hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel, offering a more subdued and subtle typing experience. While the Cream Yellow may appeal to those who enjoy a bouncy and resonant feedback, the F2 may be preferred by those looking for a lighter and more nuanced typing experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
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 Cream Yellow and the KTT F2, we find that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This means that both switches will have a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the polycarbonate plastic. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, making both the Cream Yellow and F2 visually appealing in that aspect. However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Cream Yellow uses nylon while the F2 uses polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Cream Yellow creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the F2, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile.
The differences in the bottom housing materials between the Cream Yellow and the F2 result in distinct typing experiences. Typing on the Cream Yellow with its nylon bottom housing will provide a sound that is duller and rounder due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. On the other hand, typing on the F2 with its polycarbonate bottom housing will result in a sharper and crisper sound profile, emphasizing the clear and resonant characteristics of the material. The impact of the bottom housing is particularly noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel, with the Cream Yellow offering a deeper and fuller sensation while the F2 delivers a sharper and crisper experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Cream Yellow and F2 switches showcases how different materials can impact the sound profile and typing experience. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound profile, the distinction in bottom housing materials allows for unique typing experiences. The Cream Yellow with its nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the F2 with its polycarbonate bottom housing provides a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the housing materials play a significant role in determining the overall feel and sound of the switches, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the KTT F2 linear switch both fall within the medium range. The Cream Yellow has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the F2's 43 grams, making it a bit heavier. However, the bottom out force of the Cream Yellow at 58 grams is also slightly higher than the F2's 53 grams. This means that while the Cream Yellow requires a slightly heavier initial press, it also provides a slightly more substantial typing experience when fully pressed. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the F2 may be the better choice as it offers a lighter actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow and the KTT F2 linear switches both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This makes them suitable for users who prefer a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a similar key press feel due to their matching travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT F2 comes in at $3.90 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 Cream Yellow linear switch offers a distinctively clacky sound that is sharp and snappy when pressed, providing a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT F2 linear switch presents a hollow sound signature that is more neutral and subdued, offering a sound profile that is dampened and subtle in comparison to most switches. The Cream Yellow excels in delivering a resonant audio feedback due to its design features, while the F2 provides a comfortable typing experience with a medium-light weightiness.
Moving on to the feel, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is described as offering a uniquely bouncy typing sensation, characterized by a spring-like or elastic feedback that gives keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. In contrast, the KTT F2 linear switch is likened to a feathery typing experience, with exceptional lightness in key actuation that reduces finger fatigue and provides comfort for prolonged typing sessions. The F2's feel is also described as mild and subtle, offering a gentle resistance and a light typing feel that is approachable to most users.
In conclusion, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the KTT F2 linear switch each bring forth their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Yellow excels in providing a clacky sound and bouncy typing sensation, while the F2 stands out with a hollow sound signature and a feathery typing experience. Depending on the desired auditory and tactile feedback, users can choose between these switches to tailor their typing experience to their preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance in their respective sound and feel characteristics, providing users with a satisfying typing experience regardless of their selection.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the KTT F2 linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a distinct hollow sound with a feathery, mild, or subtle typing feel, the F2 might be more suitable for your preferences. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.
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