KTT Cream Yellow vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Cream Yellow and the Zuoce Lavender. The Cream Yellow is known for its distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem. On the other hand, the Lavender stands out for its exceptional smoothness right out of the box, attributed to its proprietary Ly blend, while also offering a crisp and clacky sound signature. The Cream Yellow provides a bouncy typing experience, while the Lavender offers an easy-to-press 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
48g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Zuoce Lavender, we can see that they each offer unique characteristics to the switches. The Cream Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Lavender's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a distinct auditory experience. Both materials have their strengths, with polycarbonate emphasizing clarity and resonance, while POM provides a pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper end of the spectrum.
When it comes to the bottom housings, the Cream Yellow utilizes nylon, which creates a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Lavender's POM bottom housing contributes to the switch's sound profile by adding depth and a more muted quality. While both materials aim to enhance the overall typing experience, nylon may offer a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the deeper and more muted sound achieved with POM. Despite their differences, both housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches.
It is worth noting that when the top and bottom housings differ in a switch, the qualities of each material are distributed throughout the typing experience. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. This means that in switches like the Cream Yellow and the Lavender, where the top and bottom housings vary, users can expect a balanced combination of characteristics that cater to both the pressing and releasing of keys, resulting in an overall well-rounded typing experience.
Weight
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Zuoce Lavender linear switch which has an actuation force of 48 grams, making the Lavender the lighter of the two. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Yellow requires 58 grams to fully press the key while the Lavender only needs 53 grams, making the Lavender the lighter option once again. The difference in force between the two switches is not significant, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience. Some may prefer the Cream Yellow for a slightly more substantial typing feel, while others may opt for the lighter touch of the Lavender for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for typing experience and desired level of force required for key presses.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, with the Cream Yellow being slightly longer than the Lavender. Gamers may prefer the Cream Yellow for its slightly longer travel distance, which can provide a more satisfying key press, while those looking for faster response times may opt for the slightly shorter travel distance of the Lavender. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
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 Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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, both the KTT Cream Yellow and Zuoce Lavender switches are described as having a "clacky" sound profile, which is characterized by a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The Cream Yellow's shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem contribute to its resonant audio feedback, while the Lavender's smoothness out of the box and proprietary Ly blend material also provide a crisp and clacky sound signature. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying auditory experience, although individual preferences may vary based on factors such as keyboard build and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switch is known for its "bouncy" typing sensation, thanks to its lengthened spring that provides a uniquely spring-like feedback. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender switch is described as "easy-to-press," offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. While the Cream Yellow provides a lively and rebounding feel, the Lavender offers a responsive and low-impact typing experience.
Considering the available information, both the KTT Cream Yellow and Zuoce Lavender switches offer their own unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Cream Yellow excels in delivering a bouncy typing experience with a distinctively clacky sound, while the Lavender stands out for its smoothness and easy-to-press nature, accompanied by a crisp sound signature. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you enjoy a bouncy and springy feel with a clacky sound, the Cream Yellow would be a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and easy-to-press typing experience with a crisp sound, the Lavender would be more suitable. Either way, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with both switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you in a keyboard switch. If you prioritize a distinct clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you value exceptional smoothness, an easy-to-press experience, and a crisp clacky sound signature, the Lavender switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider your priorities and choose the switch that aligns best with what you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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