KTT Cream Yellow vs. Gateron Glory Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that cater to different user preferences are the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Glory Red, both of which are linear switches. The Cream Yellow is celebrated for its distinctively clacky sound and unique bouncy typing feel, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem that provides resonant audio feedback. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate a tactile auditory experience alongside their keystrokes. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Red offers a smoother keystroke with a pleasing travel distance, focusing more on a fluid typing experience without the additional sound. Those who prefer a quieter, more subtle touch may gravitate towards the Glory Red for its effortless actuation. While both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, their characteristics cater to different user 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

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

Gateron Glory Red Linear

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Glory Red, it's clear that they diverge significantly in their design and acoustic profiles, particularly in their top housings. The Cream Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's rigidity, which enhances clarity and resonance. On the other hand, the Glory Red utilizes a nylon top housing that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a more rounded auditory experience. These differences suggest that while the overall sound character of each switch is influenced by its top housing material, the Cream Yellow will deliver a brighter sound, while the Glory Red will provide a more subdued timbre.

In contrast, both switches share the same housing material for their bottom sections: nylon. In both the Cream Yellow and Glory Red, the use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a rich sound experience characterized by the material's ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper, fuller auditory feedback. This shared feature means that regardless of the differences in their upper housings, the bottom-out sound and feel will be somewhat similar for both switches. Since the bottom housing is crucial in defining the tactile and auditory feedback experienced upon key release, users can expect a consistent, satisfying bottom-out sensation across both switches.

Ultimately, while the KTT Cream Yellow and Gateron Glory Red switches differ in their top housing materials, they converge in their bottom housing composition, which shapes the typing experience significantly. This design choice ensures that both switches deliver a compelling tactile feel, yet the sound profiles will be notably different due to their contrasting upper materials. Therefore, those looking for a bright and clear auditory signature will gravitate towards the Cream Yellow, whereas users seeking a deeper and more mellow sound will prefer the Glory Red. The unique combination of housing materials in each switch allows for a diverse range of sound and feel, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch, there are noticeable differences in actuation force, while the bottom out force for the Glory Red remains unknown. The Cream Yellow switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, making it a medium-force switch, while the Glory Red is lighter at 45 grams. This difference means that the Cream Yellow will provide a more substantial typing experience, which some users prefer for its tactile feedback, while the lighter Glory Red may be better suited for prolonged typing sessions where less effort is required. In terms of bottom out force, the Cream Yellow switch bottoms out at 58 grams, ensuring a more pronounced tactile response, while the absence of a specified bottom out force for the Glory Red leaves its depth of keypress undefined. Overall, those seeking a lighter typing experience should lean towards the Gateron Glory Red, while those who appreciate a firmer feel might opt for the KTT Cream Yellow.

Travel distance

The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Glory Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Cream Yellow switch provides a more responsive experience due to its shorter travel distance, which can be beneficial for gamers seeking quick key actuation. In contrast, the Glory Red, with its 0.1 mm longer travel distance, may offer a bit more depth, potentially appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference: the Cream Yellow is ideal for those valuing responsiveness, while the Glory Red caters to users who enjoy a deeper key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Cream Yellow switch is renowned for its distinctively clacky audio profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. The design elements, including its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, enhance this resonant feedback, making each keystroke feel satisfying not just to the typist but also to anyone within earshot. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Red switch does not have a documented sound profile, leaving its auditory characteristics uncertain. However, it is essential to note that sound can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used, which means that even with unknown properties, one might still achieve a pleasant typing experience.

In terms of feel, the KTT Cream Yellow boasts a bouncy typing sensation, thanks to its lengthened spring design. This provides an elastic feedback that adds a lively quality to each keystroke, giving typists a sense of rebound that can enhance typing speed and accuracy. The Gateron Glory Red switch, while not providing specific descriptions regarding its feel, is recognized as being on the lighter side, which often translates to a smoother keystroke. This may still lead to a comfortable typing experience, but the absence of detailed information leaves some uncertainty regarding its tactile feedback compared to the bouncy feel of the Cream Yellow.

In conclusion, while the KTT Cream Yellow and Gateron Glory Red switches offer different auditory and tactile experiences, they each have their strengths that cater to varying preferences. The Cream Yellow excels in delivering a distinct clacky sound and a lively, bouncy feel, making it ideal for those who appreciate responsive feedback. On the other hand, the Glory Red's smoother keystroke and lighter actuation may appeal to those who enjoy a more subdued typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between them will depend on your personal preferences related to sound and feel, and either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience with the right setup.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and what you prioritize in your typing experience. If you enjoy a more tactile and auditory feedback while you type, the KTT Cream Yellow is an excellent option with its distinctively clacky sound profile and bouncy feel. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a lively typing experience and want to add a bit of character to their keyboard. On the other hand, if you're looking for a smoother and quieter switch that provides a pleasing travel distance, the Gateron Glory Red is likely more up your alley. While it might not have the same audio feedback as the Cream Yellow, it offers an enjoyable typing experience that many users find comfortable for long bouts of typing or gaming. Ultimately, consider your preferences for sound, feel, and the specific applications you’ll be using your keyboard for to make the best choice for your needs.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Glory Red Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more