KTT Cream Yellow vs. Gazzew LT
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gazzew LT switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gazzew LT switches, both of which are linear switches. The Cream Yellow switch is well-known for its distinctively clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem that provides resonant audio feedback. Additionally, the lengthened spring of the Cream Yellow switch contributes to a uniquely bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT switches offer an auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness with their enticing lilac hue. These switches provide a seamless glide with every keystroke, making typing a smooth and satisfying experience. While both switches share qualities such as a linear design, they differ in terms of sound profile and typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gazzew LT differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Cream Yellow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the LT's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While both materials contribute to good sound, the Cream Yellow's polycarbonate offers more clarity, while the LT's Gazzew blend provides a deeper tone.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Cream Yellow features a nylon bottom housing, which is recognized as a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon bottoms generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the LT also employs Gazzew blend for its bottom housing, which contributes to a rich and deep sound because of its softness. In terms of sound profile, both switches with these bottom housing materials produce similar results, as they aim for a deeper and more resonant sound.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on key presses, differences arise. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. As the Cream Yellow's nylon bottom housing is softer, it may result in a slightly more cushioned feel and a gentler sound upon bottoming out. Conversely, the LT's Gazzew blend bottom housing, known for its softness, will likewise offer a smoother bottom-out experience. On the other hand, the top housing of each switch has a greater influence on the sound when a key is released. While the polycarbonate top housing of the Cream Yellow emphasizes crispness, the Gazzew blend top housing of the LT contributes to a rich and deep sound upon key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, some notable differences can be observed. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the LT's actuation force is unavailable. However, both switches have a medium level of actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Cream Yellow requires 58 grams of force, which is slightly lighter than the LT switch that demands 65 grams, making it medium-heavy.
Considering weight can be pivotal for individuals who prefer certain typing experiences. Those who desire a lighter feel may find the Cream Yellow switch appealing, as it allows for longer typing periods without fatigue. This characteristic makes it suitable for work keyboards or extended gaming sessions. Conversely, individuals who seek a more substantial typing experience might prefer a switch with a heavier force. In this case, the Gazzew LT linear switch would offer a stronger push feel due to its higher bottom out force.
Although the exact actuation force for the LT switch is unknown, it can be assumed that it will provide similar results to the Cream Yellow switch since both have a medium level of actuation force. Ultimately, the Cream Yellow switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force, while the Gazzew LT linear switch is heavier, providing a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Cream Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the LT has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Although both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Cream Yellow offers a bit more depth compared to the LT. For gamers seeking faster response times, the LT may be the preferred option due to its slightly shorter travel distance. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial key press and a sense of depth, the Cream Yellow's longer travel distance may be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or key press 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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 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 KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is best known for its distinctively clacky sound. This means that when the keys are pressed, you can expect a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT linear switch offers an auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness. These switches have a bassy and thocky sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range that resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the LT switches have a low-pitched sound, which means they offer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Ultimately, if you're looking for clacky sound, the Cream Yellow will deliver, while the LT switches provide a satisfying deep thockiness.
In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switches are known for their bouncy sensation. This means that when you press the keys, you'll experience a spring-like or elastic feedback that gives a lively feel and rebound. The Gazzew LT switches, unfortunately, do not have any specific descriptors or descriptions regarding feel provided. However, it's worth considering that linear switches in general offer a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump or click. This means that the typing experience on the LT switches is expected to be seamless and glide effortlessly with every keystroke.
Taking all the available information into account, if you're seeking a keyboard switch with a clacky sound and a bouncy feel, the KTT Cream Yellow would be the recommended choice. However, if you prefer an auditory experience characterized by deep, resonant thockiness and a smooth typing glide, the Gazzew LT linear switches would be the better option. Both switches offer unique and desirable subjective qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so your ultimate choice depends on your personal sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gazzew LT switches, there are a few factors to consider. If you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force, the Cream Yellow at 58 grams would be a suitable option, while the LT is slightly heavier at 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy choice.
If you prioritize a distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow is the way to go. Its shortened bottom-out distance, long-pole stem, and lengthened spring contribute to a resonant audio feedback and a uniquely lively typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a deep and resonant thocky sound with a seamless glide for every keystroke, the LT switches are the perfect fit. The enticing lilac hue adds a touch of aesthetics to your keyboard.
In terms of sound, the Cream Yellow provides a clacky sound characterized by crisp, bright, and percussive notes. In contrast, the LT switches offer a bassy sound profile with deep, rich thocks and low-pitched tones reminiscent of bass tones.
While the Cream Yellow is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback when pressed, there is no specific description of the LT switches' feel. Therefore, if you prioritize a bouncy typing experience, the Cream Yellow would be the better choice between the two.
Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gazzew LT switches depends on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics. Consider the clacky sound and bouncy typing feel of the Cream Yellow, or the deep, resonant thockiness and seamless glide of the LT switches to choose the one that suits your needs best.