KTT Cream Yellow vs. KTT Laurel

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cream Yellow and the KTT Laurel offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cream Yellow switch is renowned for its distinctively clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem that provides resonant audio feedback. Additionally, its lengthened spring contributes to a uniquely bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the Laurel switch boasts a medium-light linear design, striking the perfect balance of responsiveness and comfort with its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole. Furthermore, it offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile. Both switches have their own advantages, providing options for individuals seeking either a bouncy and clacky typing experience or a more snappy and low-pitched feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

KTT Laurel Linear

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

$4.42

$3.95 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the KTT Laurel differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Cream Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound. Its stiffer plastic construction leads to a more resonant sound profile, making it ideal for those seeking a high-pitched and clear sound. In contrast, the Laurel's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. This unique sound profile is distinctively different from the Cream Yellow, offering a more subdued and soothing typing experience.

When it comes to the bottom housings, both switches have varying materials that make a notable impact on the switch's sound profile. The Cream Yellow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which evokes a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. Similarly, the Laurel features a POM bottom housing, contributing to its pleasing and unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and more subdued. Although both switches use different materials for their bottom housings, they share similarities in their ability to create a deeper typing sound, providing users with a satisfying keypress experience.

Considering the individual impacts of the top and bottom housing materials, it is important to note that each influences different aspects of the typing experience. Pressing down on the switch will primarily highlight the qualities of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. The Cream Yellow's nylon bottom housing, with its absorbent nature, will provide a deeper and fuller sound upon keypress. In contrast, the Laurel's POM bottom housing contributes to its distinctive deep and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing material plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. The Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top housing is likely to deliver a sharper and crisp sound upon key release, while the Laurel's POM top housing yields a slightly more subdued release sound.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Cream Yellow has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, whereas the Laurel requires a lighter actuation force of 43 grams. Both switches have medium and light actuation forces respectively.

In terms of bottom out force, the Cream Yellow requires a force of 58 grams, indicating a slightly heavier typing experience. On the other hand, the Laurel has a bottom out force of 50 grams, suggesting a lighter and more responsive typing sensation.

Considering weight, some individuals may prefer the Cream Yellow for its heavier actuation and bottom out force. This choice provides a more substantial typing experience, which can be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Conversely, those who value a keyboard that is lighter for extended typing periods or long gaming sessions may prefer the Laurel's lighter actuation and bottom out forces.

Overall, while the Cream Yellow offers a slightly heavier typing experience with its higher actuation and bottom out forces, the Laurel provides a lighter and more responsive feel. Depending on personal preferences and usage requirements, either switch can provide a suitable typing experience.

Travel distance

Both the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience a similar distance of travel from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, there is no significant difference between these two switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cream Yellow switch is known for its distinctively clacky sound. This switch is designed with a shortened bottom-out distance and a long-pole stem, which contributes to a resonant audio feedback. Additionally, the lengthened spring in the Cream Yellow switch provides a uniquely bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the Laurel switch offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switch is described as bouncy. This means that it provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation when pressed. The keys have a lively feel, giving a sense of rebound. On the other hand, the Laurel switch is described as snappy. This indicates that it is super responsive, often due to the use of longer or dual-staged springs. The snappy feel of the Laurel switch adds an extra level of liveliness to the typing experience.

Comparing these two switches, it is clear that they have distinct subjective qualities. The Cream Yellow switch offers a clacky sound with a bouncy feel, while the Laurel switch provides a low-pitched sound with a snappy feel. Depending on personal preferences, one may prefer the crisp and bright clackiness of the Cream Yellow, or the bass-heavy and mellow sound of the Laurel.

If you enjoy the clacky sound and bouncy feel of the Cream Yellow switch, you may also find satisfaction with the Laurel switch. While the Laurel may not provide an identical experience, it does offer a low-pitched sound profile and a snappy feel, which can result in similar levels of enjoyment. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a distinctively clacky sound and a uniquely bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch would be the best choice for you. Its shortened bottom-out distance, long-pole stem, and lengthened spring contribute to its resonant audio feedback and lively typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtler, low-pitched sound profile and a snappy, responsive feel, the KTT Laurel linear switch would be the better option. With its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, the Laurel switch strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, providing a mellow tone and a super responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Cream Yellow and the Laurel depends on your specific preferences for sound and feel, ensuring that you'll find a switch that suits your individual typing style.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

Learn more

KTT Laurel Linear

$4.42

$3.95 per 10

Learn more