KTT Cream Yellow vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Cream Yellow and the Cherry MX Speed Silver mechanical keyboard switches, we see two linear switches that cater to different preferences and needs. The Cream Yellow is known for its distinctively clacky sound, bouncy typing feel, and shortened bottom-out distance, making it a great choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver is all about speed, with its linear action, low spring resistance, and rapid response time making it ideal for gaming where quick keystrokes are crucial. The Cream Yellow is categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', while the MX Speed Silver is categorized as 'Textured', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched'. 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
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
The housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches offer contrasting sound profiles due to their use of different plastics. The Cream Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In comparison, the MX Speed Silver utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a clearer and more resonant sound, while the softer nylon absorbs more sound, producing a duller and rounder tone. These differences in housing materials contribute to unique typing experiences for users of each switch.
While both switches share a nylon bottom housing, the Cream Yellow and the MX Speed Silver diverge in their top housing materials. The Cream Yellow's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to the MX Speed Silver. However, the split between the polycarbonate top housing of the Cream Yellow and the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver results in distinct tactile and auditory feedback when typing. The impact of the top housing material is particularly noticeable when releasing a key, as the polycarbonate of the Cream Yellow produces a crisper sound compared to the duller sound of the nylon in the MX Speed Silver.
In summary, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the KTT Cream Yellow and the Cherry MX Speed Silver significantly impacts the overall typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the Cream Yellow creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches use nylon bottom housing, resulting in a consistent tactile feel. However, the differences in top housing materials lead to distinct sound profiles and feel when typing, highlighting the importance of housing materials in switch design.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that the MX Speed Silver is the lighter option with an actuation force of 30 grams, while the Cream Yellow is heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams. The Cream Yellow also has a higher bottom out force of 58 grams, compared to the MX Speed Silver whose bottom out force is unknown. The actuation force of the Cream Yellow provides a more substantial typing experience, while the lighter actuation force of the MX Speed Silver allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the weight preferences of the user, with the Cream Yellow leaning towards a heavier feel and the MX Speed Silver providing a lighter touch. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, the Cream Yellow offers a slightly deeper press compared to the MX Speed Silver. If you prioritize a quicker and more responsive typing experience, the Cherry MX Speed Silver may be the better option for you. Conversely, if you prefer a more substantial keypress with a bit more depth, the KTT Cream Yellow switch could be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver 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
When it comes to sound, the Cream Yellow linear switch offers a clacky and resonant sound that is sharp, bright, and percussive, thanks to its design with a shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound, giving a deep and satisfying tone with a bass-heavy and mellow quality. Depending on personal preference, users may find the Cream Yellow to be more lively and sharp in sound, while the MX Speed Silver offers a deeper and more comforting auditory experience.
Moving on to feel, the Cream Yellow switch is known for its bouncy and spring-like feedback, giving a lively and rebounding sensation when pressed. This tactile experience is achieved through the lengthened spring and unique design of the switch. Conversely, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is described as textured, offering noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer this subtle texture for added tactile feedback, while others may prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. It ultimately comes down to individual preference and typing style.
Considering all the available information, the Cream Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cream Yellow provides a clacky and bouncy typing experience, the MX Speed Silver offers a thocky and textured sensation. Depending on whether you prioritize rapid response for gaming or a more resonant sound for typing, both switches cater to different preferences. Ultimately, trying out both switches on a personal keyboard setup with preferred keycaps will give the most accurate assessment of which switch suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you are looking for a switch that provides a distinctively clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize maximum speed and rapid response, especially for gaming where every millisecond counts, the MX Speed Silver is a top contender with its instant triggering and low spring resistance. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
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