KTT Cream Yellow vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are several factors to consider in order to find the perfect match for your typing preferences. Two popular choices in the linear switch category are the KTT Cream Yellow and the Cherry MX Black. The Cream Yellow switch is well-regarded for its distinctively clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem. This switch also offers a uniquely bouncy typing feel, thanks to its lengthened spring. On the other hand, the MX Black switch from Cherry boasts their perfected engineering with the use of Hyperglide tooling, resulting in a classic textured smoothness. The MX Black switch provides a satisfying deep sound profile when typing. While these general descriptors offer some insight into the switches, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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 Cherry MX Black switches have distinct differences. The Cream Yellow switch features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, which enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced. In contrast, the MX Black switch utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and generates a duller and rounder tone. Therefore, the Cream Yellow switch offers a more precise and resonating sound, while the MX Black switch provides a deeper and fuller sound experience.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Cream Yellow and the MX Black switches use nylon. As a classic switch housing material, nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in typing. The softness of nylon allows for increased sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches share this characteristic, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound.
Considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound and feel of the switches, the Cream Yellow and the MX Black differ in their qualities. The bottom housing, which is made of nylon in both switches, influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, while the Cream Yellow and the MX Black share similarities in their bottom housing material, the differences in their top housing materials result in varying sound profiles during key release.
In summary, the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Cherry MX Black switches bring about distinct sound profiles. The Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the MX Black's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller tone. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound experience in terms of depth and fullness. However, the top housing material determines the sound when releasing a key, with the Cream Yellow having a more resonating sound compared to the MX Black.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, there are significant differences to consider. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, which is lighter compared to the MX Black's higher actuation force of 60 grams. This means that the Cream Yellow switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke, making it more sensitive and potentially ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch or engage in extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow's bottom out force of 58 grams falls between the MX Black's heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the MX Black switch provides a more substantial and firm typing experience, as it requires more force to fully press the key down. For individuals who appreciate a stronger push feel while typing, the MX Black switch would be a preferable option. Overall, the weight of the switches plays a crucial role in determining the typing experience, with the Cream Yellow being lighter and the MX Black being heavier, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it is evident that the Cream Yellow has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the MX Black has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both distances fall within the range of typical switch travel distances. The Cream Yellow's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, as shorter distances are often associated with increased responsiveness. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the MX Black switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter and more responsive feel or a longer and more substantial one.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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 known for its distinctively clacky nature. This switch produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, creating a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the MX Black switch offers a low-pitched sound profile. With a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, typing on these switches will emit a deep and satisfying sound. It's worth noting that the sound produced by 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. The combination of its shortened bottom-out distance, long-pole stem, and lengthened spring results in a uniquely elastic feedback sensation. When pressing the keys, you will feel a lively rebound that adds to the overall typing enjoyment. On the other hand, the MX Black switch provides a textured feel. These switches have noticeable friction when pressed, offering a tactile feedback that some users may prefer. Additionally, MX Black switches are generally more stiff compared to other switches, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out.
In conclusion, the Cream Yellow and MX Black switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Yellow switch delivers a clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, while the MX Black switch offers a low-pitched sound with a textured and stiffer typing experience. If you prefer a sharper sound and a bouncy feel, the Cream Yellow switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound profile, textured feedback, and a stiffer typing experience, the MX Black switch would be a suitable option. Remember that personal preference plays a significant role in determining which switch is the most suitable for your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard 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 resonant audio feedback with its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem. Additionally, the lengthened spring adds a bouncy typing feel, giving you a uniquely lively experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy bottom-out force, with a low-pitched and deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is the perfect choice. Cherry's new Hyperglide tooling further enhances the smoothness of these switches, and they offer a classic textured feel that some users prefer. Keep in mind that MX Black switches also have a higher actuation and bottom-out force, requiring more force when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Cream Yellow and Cherry MX Black switches depends on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and force required.
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