KTT Cream Yellow vs. Outemu Lime
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Lime switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from, each offering its own unique characteristics. Two switches that stand out among the rest are the KTT Cream Yellow, a linear switch, and the Outemu Lime, a tactile switch. The Cream Yellow switch is best known 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 Lime switches are incredibly unique due to their lightweight nature, approachable tactility, and silenced design. These switches are perfect for tactile fans who desire a feathery light typing experience with just a touch of tactility. While these general pointers can give you a sense of what each switch has to offer, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision based on your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Lime differ in terms of their impact on the sound profiles of the switches. The Cream Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Lime utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, if you prefer a sharper and more resonant sound, the Cream Yellow with its polycarbonate top housing would be the better choice, while the Lime with its nylon top housing would offer a deeper and fuller sound.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the Cream Yellow and the Lime utilize nylon as their material. This makes typi
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Lime requires only 35 grams to trigger a keystroke. This means that the Lime switch is lighter in terms of actuation force. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the Cream Yellow has a force of 58 grams, whereas the Lime requires only 45 grams. Consequently, the Lime switch is also lighter in terms of bottom out force.
These differences in force can have an impact on the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Lime switch to be more suitable, as it requires less force to activate and bottom out. This lighter actuation force can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions, as it allows for less fatigue on the fingertips. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may be inclined to choose the Cream Yellow switch, as its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a stronger push feel.
In conclusion, while the Cream Yellow switch is heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, the Lime switch offers a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Lime tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of what is considered a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. Choosing the Cream Yellow switch would provide a slightly deeper travel distance, which some individuals may prefer for a more satisfying keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Lime switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which can benefit those seeking increased responsiveness. In summary, while the Cream Yellow offers a slightly longer travel distance, the Lime switch falls just behind but still within the range of a shorter distance, making them both suitable options depending on individual preferences.
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 Outemu Lime comes in at $3.40 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 best described as clacky. This means that it produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp, bright, and percussive audio feedback. On the other hand, the Lime switch has a more neutral sound profile. It falls in the middle ground, neither too loud nor too quiet due to its muted characteristics. The Lime switch is designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making it suitable for shared spaces or for those who prefer a softer and quieter typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switch offers a bouncy typing experience. This switch has a unique design that includes a shortened bottom-out distance and a long-pole stem, which provides a distinctively spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. This gives the keys a lively feel and provides rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the Lime switch offers a more mild typing experience. It falls into the safe, middle-ground zone in terms of its characteristics. It has a gentle resistance that is not feather-light, but still maintains a light typing feel. The Lime switch is designed to be approachable to most users, offering comfort for extended typing sessions such as gaming, school, or work. Additionally, the Lime switch is considered polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the Cream Yellow and Lime switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Yellow switch delivers a distinctively clacky sound and a uniquely bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the Lime switch offers a more neutral and muted sound profile, along with a mild, feathery, and polished typing feel. It's important to consider your personal preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for when choosing between these switches. If you enjoy a clacky and bouncy typing experience, the Cream Yellow switch would be a suitable choice. If you prefer a more neutral and muted sound, along with a mild and comfortable typing feel, the Lime switch would be a better fit. Both switches offer their own unique qualities and can provide a satisfying typing experience based on your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values a distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, it provides a medium level of resistance that is not too heavy or too light. The Cream Yellow is designed to deliver resonant audio feedback and a uniquely bouncy typing experience, making it a great option for those who enjoy a lively and responsive feel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight switch with a touch of tactility and a more gentle typing experience, the Outemu Lime tactile switch would be a suitable option. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, it offers a lighter actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and is comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Lime switches are also silenced, making them ideal for users who prioritize a quieter typing experience. Additionally, the Lime switches have a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction.
In terms of sound, the Cream Yellow produces a sharp and snappy clacky sound, while the Lime switches have a more neutral sound profile that is muted and minimizes noise. If you prefer a crisp and percussive sound, the Cream Yellow would be a better choice. However, if you prefer a softer and quieter typing experience, the Lime switches would be more suitable, especially for shared spaces.
In conclusion, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is recommended for those who enjoy a distinct clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, while the Outemu Lime tactile switch is recommended for those who prefer a lightweight switch with a touch of tactility and a more gentle typing experience. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and actuation force when choosing between these two switches, and select the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
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