KTT Cream Yellow vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro

Overview

When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch. The Cream Yellow switch is known for its distinctively clacky sound, bouncy typing feel, and shortened bottom-out distance, making it a favorite among those looking for a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro switch is favored for its subtle and nuanced tactile feedback, allowing users to immerse themselves in their tasks without being overwhelmed by the sound of each keystroke. While the Cream Yellow switch offers a more pronounced and lively typing experience, the Gold Brown Pro switch provides a polished and understated tactile 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

TTC Gold Brown Pro Tactile

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the TTC Gold Brown Pro, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, the difference lies in the bottom housing material - the Cream Yellow features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound, while the Gold Brown Pro also utilizes a nylon bottom housing for the same effect.

Despite the similarities in using polycarbonate for the top housing, the differences in the bottom housing material between the KTT Cream Yellow and the TTC Gold Brown Pro contribute to varying sound profiles when typing on these switches. The nylon bottom housing of both switches creates a deeper and fuller sound, but the impact of this material is felt more prominently on the bottom-out sound and feel of the Cream Yellow. Conversely, the top housing's material has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key, highlighting the importance of both housing materials in creating a balanced typing experience.

In conclusion, while both the KTT Cream Yellow and the TTC Gold Brown Pro employ polycarbonate for their top housing, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing sets them apart in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The Cream Yellow's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and round sound, while the Gold Brown Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall sound profile is essential for enthusiasts looking to tailor their keyboard to their preferred typing experience.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, we can see some differences. The Cream Yellow has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gold Brown Pro's 45 grams, making the Cream Yellow slightly heavier. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Yellow requires 58 grams, while the Gold Brown Pro's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Cream Yellow may provide a more consistent typing experience in terms of force required throughout the keystroke. The weight of a switch is important as it can affect typing comfort and fatigue levels. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Gold Brown Pro for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the slightly heavier Cream Yellow for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and comfort.

Travel distance

The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Gold Brown Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cream Yellow. The Cream Yellow may provide a quicker response due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers for its faster reaction times. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro offers a slightly deeper key press experience, which some users may find more satisfying for typing or other activities that require more tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter, quicker travel distance or a slightly longer, more substantial key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch features a clacky sound - sharp, snappy, and percussive. This distinct noise is a result of its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem providing resonant audio feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offers a more thocky, low-pitched sound profile. This switch produces a deep, rich, and satisfying noise, with each keystroke emitting a soft "thud" or "knock." The Cream Yellow provides a louder and more pronounced auditory experience, while the Gold Brown Pro gives off a subtle and subdued typing sound, perfect for those who prefer minimal distraction during extensive typing sessions.

When it comes to feel, the Cream Yellow switch is known for its bouncy typing sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that makes keys feel lively and responsive. Conversely, the Gold Brown Pro offers a polished and silky typing experience, with smooth key travel and reduced friction. This switch provides a more refined and gentle typing feel, allowing for a smoother typing experience without any harsh tactile feedback. The Cream Yellow switch offers a more dynamic and energetic typing experience, while the Gold Brown Pro provides a more refined and subdued tactile sensation, suitable for those who prefer a smoother typing experience without excessive tactile feedback.

Overall, the Cream Yellow linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Yellow excels in providing a distinctive and loud clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, while the Gold Brown Pro delivers a subtle and subdued thocky sound with a polished and silky typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a more energetic and pronounced keyboard noise or a smoother and refined typing feel, both switches provide distinctive qualities that can enhance your typing experience accordingly.

Conclusion

In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch or the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a distinctively clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle, nuanced tactile feedback with a polished, silky typing experience and a low-pitched, thocky sound profile, then the Gold Brown Pro might be more suited to your needs. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so take into account what features are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on what type of typing experience you are looking for.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

Learn more

TTC Gold Brown Pro Tactile

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

Learn more