KTT Cream Yellow vs. TTC Flaming Pink
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the TTC Flaming Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two noteworthy contenders are the KTT Cream Yellow and the TTC Flaming Pink. The Cream Yellow switch stands out with its distinctive clacky sound profile, characterized by a shortened bottom-out distance and a long-pole stem that produces resonant audio feedback. This switch is particularly appealing for those who enjoy a bouncy typing feel, making it a solid choice for enthusiasts who appreciate both acoustic and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Flaming Pink switches offer a smooth and responsive typing experience, boasting a satisfying yet restrained bottom-out sound. This makes them highly suitable not only for gaming but also for everyday use, striking a balance between performance and subtlety. Ultimately, choosing between these two linear switches depends on your unique preferences for sound and feel. 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
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
24mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cream Yellow and the TTC Flaming Pink switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which provides several notable benefits. The polycarbonate material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer composition. This stiffness not only enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced but also influences the overall aesthetic when combined with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant illumination. Consequently, users can expect similar auditory experiences with both switches when it comes to sound characteristics during key presses.
In stark contrast to their common top housing, the KTT Cream Yellow and TTC Flaming Pink switches utilize different bottom housing materials. Both models are equipped with nylon bottom housings, which are known for producing a distinctive depth in sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a fuller, rounder auditory experience. This means that while the top housing contributes to the sharper sound when keys are released, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in shaping the bottom-out sound and feel during key presses. As such, users of either switch will benefit from the unique blend of sound profiles offered by the combination of these housing materials.
Overall, while both the KTT Cream Yellow and TTC Flaming Pink switches share the same top housing material, their performance and sound profiles will ultimately be shaped by the combination of both their top and bottom housings. The polycarbonate top ensures clarity and brightness, allowing for visual enhancements when paired with RGB lighting, while the nylon bottom provides a deeper resonance during typists' actions. Therefore, even though the top housings are identical, the interplay between both materials allows for a distinctive typing experience that balances both crispness and fullness in sound.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch, we see notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Cream Yellow switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Flaming Pink switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable option for users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. This contrast highlights that users who gravitate towards a more substantial typing experience might find the Cream Yellow switch more satisfying due to its heavier forces, while those looking for ease and less strain over long periods may favor the Flaming Pink switch. Overall, while both switches offer unique characteristics, the Cream Yellow is the heavier option and the Flaming Pink is the lighter one, catering to different preferences in tactile feedback and typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch, the Cream Yellow stands at 3.5 mm, while the Flaming Pink measures slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This indicates that the Cream Yellow offers a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more appealing for gamers and users seeking quicker response times. Conversely, the Flaming Pink's travel distance, being marginally longer, may be favored by those who appreciate a more pronounced depth during key presses. For users who prioritize responsiveness, the KTT Cream Yellow switch would likely be the better choice, whereas those who enjoy a more substantial feel might gravitate toward the TTC Flaming Pink switch.
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 TTC Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
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 quality, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch offers a distinctively clacky auditory experience, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound with crisp, bright, and percussive notes. This clackiness is enhanced by its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, which contribute to a resonant audio feedback that many typing enthusiasts appreciate. The TTC Flaming Pink, on the other hand, has a more subtle sound profile, providing a bright yet not overly loud bottom-out sound that strikes a balance suitable for both gaming and everyday typing. While it doesn't reach the same clackiness as the Cream Yellow, it still delivers a satisfying auditory experience, albeit milder.
In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow is known for its bouncy nature, offering a spring-like sensation that creates a lively typing experience. This elasticity allows for a rewarding feedback as you engage each key, making it enjoyable for prolonged usage. Conversely, the TTC Flaming Pink is designed for a smooth and responsive typing feel, which ensures that each keystroke is pleasant while maintaining efficiency. While it may lack the pronounced bounciness of the Cream Yellow, its smoothness can be particularly appealing for those who prefer a more fluid typing experience without significant resistance.
Overall, both the KTT Cream Yellow and TTC Flaming Pink linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. If you're looking for a clacky, bouncy experience, the Cream Yellow is a standout choice, while those favoring a smoother, quieter typing experience may gravitate towards the Flaming Pink. Ultimately, your selection will depend on whether you prioritize auditory feedback or a seamless typing feel in your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between KTT Cream Yellow and TTC Flaming Pink linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience and a tactile feel that gives you a lively bounce with each keystroke, the Cream Yellow switch is likely the better fit for you. Its clacky sound profile and medium bottom-out force of 58 grams provide an engaging and satisfying typing experience, particularly suited for those who appreciate a more dynamic response. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more subtle keystroke with a lighter activation force, the TTC Flaming Pink switch might be your best option. With its low 50-gram bottom-out force and a sound profile that strikes a balance between satisfying and not overwhelming, it offers versatility for both gaming and everyday typing tasks. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the bounciness and clackiness of the Cream Yellow or the smoothness of the Flaming Pink will depend on your typing habits and what you value most in a switch experience.