KTT Cream Yellow vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the KTT Cream Yellow and the Cherry MX Brown. The Cream Yellow switch is categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky' due to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, providing a distinctively clacky sound and a uniquely bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the MX Brown switch is categorized as 'Textured', 'Bassy', and 'Low-pitched', offering a relatively light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
55g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Cherry MX Brown switches exhibit significant differences. The Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile compared to the MX Brown's nylon top housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the Cream Yellow switch, making it ideal for users who prioritize a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the MX Brown's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience. Both switches have distinct aural characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Additionally, the Cream Yellow's nylon bottom housing shares similarities with the MX Brown's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a dull and round sound. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel of the Cream Yellow and MX Brown switches, as the nylon bottom housing material contributes to this aspect of their performance.
It is important to note the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound of a switch. In switches with different top and bottom housings, such as the KTT Cream Yellow and Cherry MX Brown, the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom portions. When pressing down a key, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, when releasing a key, the top housing has a more significant impact on the resulting sound. Therefore, understanding the properties of both the top and bottom housing materials is essential for users seeking specific sound profiles and tactile experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Cream Yellow is slightly higher, measuring at 50 grams, while the MX Brown requires 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. Both switches can be considered medium in terms of actuation force.
In terms of bottom out force, the Cream Yellow requires 58 grams, making it slightly heavier than the MX Brown, which has a bottom out force of 55 grams. While the Cream Yellow can be considered medium in bottom out force, the MX Brown is classified as medium-light.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the MX Brown, as it requires slightly less force for both actuation and bottoming out. This could be advantageous for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions where fatigue may become a concern. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may find the Cream Yellow more suitable due to its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces.
In conclusion, while the actuation and bottom out forces of the Cream Yellow and MX Brown switches differ slightly, they both fall within the medium range. The Cream Yellow tends to be slightly heavier in terms of force compared to the MX Brown, making it more suitable for those seeking a stronger push feel. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may find the MX Brown to be a better choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, we find that the Cream Yellow has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the MX Brown has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. These distances can have an impact on the typing or gaming experience. A 4.0 mm travel distance is considered to be more traditional, offering a satisfying depth to the key press. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow's 3.5 mm travel distance is shorter, making it a preferred choice for gamers who value faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel abrupt or lacking in depth. Ultimately, the choice between the Cream Yellow and MX Brown switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience one is seeking.
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 Brown 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
The Cream Yellow switch is best known for its distinctively clacky sound. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the MX Brown switch offers a more subtle sound experience. It is described as bassy, with a deeper and richer sound profile resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the MX Brown switch is low-pitched, providing a more mellow and bass-heavy tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It's worth noting 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 uniquely bouncy typing experience. These switches provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. When pressed, the keys have a lively feel and give a rebound effect, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Brown switch is described as textured or scratchy. This means that the switches have noticeable friction when pressed, offering a tactile feedback that some users prefer. However, others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between a bouncy feel and a textured feel depends on personal preference.
In conclusion, the Cream Yellow and MX Brown switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Yellow switch is known for its clacky sound and bouncy feel, providing a unique and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Brown switch offers a more subtle and subdued sound, with a bassy and low-pitched profile. It also provides a textured feel, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a noticeable friction when typing. Both switches have their own merits, and the choice between them ultimately depends on individual preferences. However, if you are looking for a similar sound and feel, the Cream Yellow switch may offer a comparable typing experience to the MX Brown switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values a distinctive, clacky sound and a uniquely bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch would be a great choice for you. The Cream Yellow's shortened bottom-out distance, long-pole stem, and lengthened spring all contribute to its resonant audio feedback and lively typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle and gentle typing experience with subdued audio feedback, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is the way to go. The MX Brown offers a relatively light typing experience with its gentle tactility, and its low-pitched and bassy sound profile adds depth and richness to each key press. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer the clacky and bouncy nature of the Cream Yellow or the subtle and textured experience of the MX Brown, both switches have their unique qualities to enhance your typing experience.
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