KTT Cream Yellow vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Cream Yellow and the Dareu Master mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both switches offer unique features and characteristics. The Cream Yellow is known for its distinctive clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance, long-pole stem, and lengthened spring. On the other hand, the Dareu Master offers a medium weight, classic clacky sound signature, and exceptional smoothness in operation due to its all-POM linear construction. While the Cream Yellow is categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', the Master is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and Dareu Master switches offer distinct sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. The Cream Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile ideal for RGB lighting. In contrast, the Master utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. Both switches prioritize sound quality, but the Cream Yellow leans towards a crisper tone while the Master offers a more subdued experience.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Cream Yellow boasts a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This allows for a rounder sound that absorbs more noise. Similarly, the Master utilizes a POM bottom housing which contributes to its pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper side. Despite the different materials used, both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience through their bottom housings.
When considering how the top and bottom housings interact with each switch, it becomes evident that they each play a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile and typing feel. While the Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top contributes to a sharper sound upon key release, its nylon bottom creates a deeper typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Master's POM top and bottom housings work in unison to deliver a more muted and unique sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, it is evident that there are some key differences between the two. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Master has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Yellow requires 58 grams, whereas the Master does not have a specified bottom out force. This means that the Cream Yellow switch is slightly heavier both in terms of actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Master switch. Some users may prefer the Cream Yellow for its more substantial typing experience, while others may opt for the Master for its lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. Choosing between the two switches may come down to personal preference - if you prefer a more responsive feel, the Cream Yellow may be the better option. However, if you enjoy a switch with a bit more depth, the Master with its slightly longer travel distance might be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, so you can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness and 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 Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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
In terms of sound, both the Cream Yellow and Master switches are known for their clacky sound profiles, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This can be attributed to the design of the switches which emphasize crisp, bright, and percussive audio feedback. While the Cream Yellow features a shortened bottom-out distance and a long-pole stem for enhanced resonance, the Master switch offers a classic clacky sound signature with exceptional smoothness in operation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and how they interact with the overall keyboard setup including keycaps and board.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Cream Yellow is characterized as bouncy due to its lengthened spring and elastic feedback sensation. This provides a lively typing experience with a noticeable rebound when keys are pressed. On the other hand, the Master switch offers a mild typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone, suitable for most users. Additionally, the Master switch is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish that contributes to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Depending on whether you prefer a bouncy and lively feel or a more gentle and polished typing experience, your choice between the Cream Yellow and Master switches will vary.
In conclusion, both the Cream Yellow and Master switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While they both deliver a clacky sound profile, the Cream Yellow leans towards a more resonant and bouncy typing experience, whereas the Master switch provides a smoother and polished feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. It is recommended to try out both switches if possible, or consider factors such as keycap compatibility and keyboard setup to determine which switch would best suit your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a distinctively clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight switch with a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation, the Dareu Master linear switch would be the perfect fit. Ultimately, it all comes down to your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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