KTT Cream Yellow vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cream Yellow and the KTT Matcha offer unique experiences 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 Matcha switch stands out as a tactile switch that delivers a comfortable and snappy tactility when typing. Its long pole stem ensures a clean bottom-out sound, and it is categorized as stepped, snappy, accented, clacky, feathery, and subtle. While these general descriptions give a glimpse into the characteristics of each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the KTT Matcha, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice not only creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile but also allows for the use of RGB lighting due to its translucency. Therefore, whether using the Cream Yellow or the Matcha, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and visual aesthetics.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the two switches differ. The Cream Yellow incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Matcha utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to its top housing. Consequently, the bottom-out sound and overall feel of the Cream Yellow will be influenced by the nylon housing, while the Matcha's bottom housing will offer a more resonant sound and feel.
In summary, both the KTT Cream Yellow and the KTT Matcha benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, resulting in a clear, resonant sound and compatibility with RGB lighting. However, their bottom housings differ, with the Cream Yellow's nylon housing emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Matcha's polycarbonate housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. Therefore, users can choose between the switches based on their preference for either a rounder sound (with the Cream Yellow) or a more resonant sound (with the Matcha) during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Cream Yellow requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Matcha's lighter 40 grams. This means that the Cream Yellow switch will require a bit more pressure to register a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Cream Yellow also requires more force with 58 grams compared to the Matcha's 45 grams. Therefore, when typing on the Cream Yellow switch, there will be a slightly more substantial feel and tactile feedback compared to the Matcha. However, it is important to note that both switches fall within the medium range for actuation and bottom out force. So, while the Cream Yellow is slightly heavier in both aspects, both switches still provide a relatively balanced typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Matcha would be a suitable choice as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. Conversely, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel may find the Cream Yellow more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it is evident that the Cream Yellow has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Matcha has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Matcha being the more typical option. However, for those seeking a quicker response time, the Cream Yellow's shorter travel distance might be preferable, as it allows for a faster keystroke. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the Matcha and its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or 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 KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 Matcha switches are described as clacky. A clacky switch produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, while the Cream Yellow and Matcha switches may produce similar clacky sounds, the overall sound experience may vary depending on the specific setup.
When it comes to feel, the Cream Yellow switch is described as bouncy. This means that it provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the Matcha switch is described using multiple descriptors including stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. Stepped switches have two stages and feel mild in comparison to hypertactile switches. The snappy attribute indicates that the Matcha switch is super responsive, likely due to longer or dual-staged springs. The accented descriptor suggests that it provides a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. The feathery attribute indicates that the switch is exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue. Lastly, the subtle descriptor indicates that the Matcha switch has a gentle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel and producing a non-resonant sound suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, both the Cream Yellow and Matcha switches offer distinct qualities. They both produce a clacky sound when pressed, although the specific sound experience can vary depending on the keyboard board and keycaps. In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switch provides a bouncy typing experience with a uniquely lively feel, while the Matcha switch offers a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle tactile feedback. If you are looking for a sharp and snappy sound with a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow switch would be a suitable choice. If you prefer a tactile switch with various levels of tactility, responsiveness, lightness, and subtlety, the Matcha switch would be a great option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom-out force and a distinctively clacky sound, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is the way to go. It is designed to provide a resonant audio feedback with its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, creating a crisp and bright sound when pressed. Additionally, its lengthened spring contributes to a uniquely bouncy typing feel, giving you a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom-out force and a comfortable, snappy tactility, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is a great option. It offers a clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem, along with various tactile features such as a stepped feel, snappy responsiveness, accented tactility, and feathery light actuation force. Overall, the Cream Yellow is ideal for those who prefer a medium force and bouncy feel, while the Matcha is a suitable choice for those who enjoy a lighter force and a satisfying tactile typing experience. Thus, the decision between these two switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences in terms of force, sound, and feel.
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