KTT Cream Yellow vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch to the Cherry MX Red linear switch, there are distinct differences that make each appealing in their own right. The Cream Yellow is loved for its bouncy and clacky feel, with a unique sound profile that comes from its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem. On the other hand, the MX Red offers a slightly heftier and deeper sound profile that is satisfyingly textured and low-pitched, providing a robust typing experience. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different preferences in terms of typing experience. 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
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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and Cherry MX Red switches, it is evident that they both use nylon for the bottom housing. Both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer plastic of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound for typing on switches that utilize nylon for the bottom housing. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either the Cream Yellow or MX Red switches.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Cream Yellow utilizes polycarbonate while the MX Red uses nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Cream Yellow creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the MX Red's nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Meanwhile, the softer nature of nylon in the MX Red's top housing absorbs more sound, creating a more muffled and round sound compared to the Cream Yellow.
Overall, the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and Cherry MX Red switches play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of typing on each switch. While both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, the differences in their top housing materials - polycarbonate for the Cream Yellow and nylon for the MX Red - result in distinct sound profiles. The Cream Yellow offers a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, while the MX Red provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is evident that the Cream Yellow is the heavier option with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams, while the bottom out force is unknown. The actuation force of both switches is relatively low, making them easy to press down for typing or gaming. However, the Cream Yellow provides a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its slightly higher bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cherry MX Red, whereas individuals who enjoy a bit more resistance may opt for the Cream Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is clear that the Cream Yellow has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the MX Red. The Cream Yellow's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the MX Red's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for some users. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Cream Yellow being on the shallower end and the MX Red being closer to the standard 4.0 mm distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 offers a distinctively clacky sound profile with a sharp and snappy feedback when pressed, thanks to its unique design features. On the other hand, the MX Red switch provides a deep and satisfying thocky sound with a low-pitched tone that adds to the overall typing experience. When it comes to feel, the Cream Yellow switch is known for its bouncy sensation, giving a spring-like feedback that enhances the typing experience. In contrast, the MX Red switch is described as textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed which may appeal to users looking for a different tactile sensation. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. Whether you choose the Cream Yellow or the MX Red switch, you are guaranteed a quality linear switch that will deliver a responsive typing experience with either a clacky or thocky sound and a bouncy or textured feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, consider the following factors. Choose the Cream Yellow if you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for a keyboard switch that offers a distinctively clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, opt for the MX Red if you prefer a switch with no bottom out force listed, a slightly heftier feel, and a deeper sound profile that provides a robust and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize the clacky sound and bouncy feel of the Cream Yellow or the thocky, low-pitched sound and textured feel of the MX Red. Make sure to test out both switches to see which one aligns more with your typing preferences and overall typing experience.
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