KTT Cream Yellow vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Jupiter Red mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately boils down to personal preference and typing style. The Cream Yellow switch stands out for its distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, perfect for those who prefer a seamless and consistent 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
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Jupiter Red, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Cream Yellow has a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Jupiter Red's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of housing materials, both the Cream Yellow and the Jupiter Red switches differ only in their bottom housings, as they both feature polycarbonate top housings. The Cream Yellow's nylon bottom housing provides a unique sound experience with deeper tones and fuller sound, while the Jupiter Red's nylon bottom housing offers a similar effect but with its own slight variation. This difference in bottom housing materials can affect the overall typing experience, with the bottom-out sound and feel influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing, while the sound upon releasing a key is shaped more by the top housing material.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Jupiter Red will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. Both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper and crisper sound when typing. The slight variation in the nylon bottom housings of each switch may result in a slightly different sound experience, with the Cream Yellow offering a deeper tone while the Jupiter Red provides a rounder sound. Overall, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, we can see that the Cream Yellow requires a slightly heavier actuation force at 50 grams compared to the Jupiter Red's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Yellow is lighter at 58 grams, while the Jupiter Red is heavier at 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium weight category, making them suitable for a variety of typing preferences. The Cream Yellow offers a slightly firmer typing experience with a lighter actuation force, while the Jupiter Red provides a smoother keystroke with a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of force required for a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it is clear that the Cream Yellow has a shorter travel distance at 3.5 mm, while the Jupiter Red has a longer travel distance at 4 mm. The Cream Yellow's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the Jupiter Red's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth to the key press. Both travel distances fall within the range of traditional distances and ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for responsiveness versus key depth.
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 Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 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
When it comes to sound, the Cream Yellow switch is known for its distinctively clacky noise, providing a crisp and percussive feedback when pressed. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and scenarios. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference, with the Cream Yellow offering a more lively and sharp sound, while the Jupiter Red providing a more moderate and versatile audio experience.
In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switch is praised for its bouncy and spring-like feedback, giving typists a lively sensation with each keystroke. In contrast, the Jupiter Red switch is described as polished, creamy, silky, and mild, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced smoothness. Whether you prefer a more elastic and rebounding feel or a sleek and buttery typing sensation, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Overall, both the Cream Yellow and Jupiter Red switches offer distinct advantages in sound and feel. The Cream Yellow excels in providing a clacky and bouncy typing experience, while the Jupiter Red delivers a polished and smooth keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. Both switches are excellent choices and will provide a satisfying typing experience for users seeking either a lively, resonant sound or a sleek, refined feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation and high-precision molds, the Jupiter Red could be the ideal choice. Keep in mind that the Cream Yellow offers a snappy and bright sound, while the Jupiter Red provides a neutral sound profile suitable for various purposes. In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow offers a bouncy sensation, while the Jupiter Red provides a polished, creamy, silky, and mild typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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