KTT Cream Yellow vs. Outemu Black

Overview

When it comes to comparing two distinct mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Black both fall under the category of linear switches, offering a smooth keystroke without tactile feedback. The Cream Yellow stands out for its distinctively clacky sound, achieved through a shortened bottom-out distance and a long-pole stem that provides resonant audio feedback. Additionally, its lengthened spring offers a uniquely bouncy typing feel, making it a popular choice for those seeking an immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Black, while lacking specific standout features, provides a reliable linear switch option for those who prefer a simpler, quieter 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

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

Outemu Black Linear

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Black switches are similar in that they both use polycarbonate for the top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding to the aesthetics of the switches. However, the Cream Yellow and the Outemu Black differ in their bottom housing material, with the Cream Yellow using nylon and the Outemu Black also using polycarbonate for the bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Cream Yellow produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Outemu Black, which absorbs less sound, resulting in a clearer sound.

In terms of sound quality, the Cream Yellow's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a unique typing experience with both sharp, high-pitched tones and deep, full sounds. On the other hand, the Outemu Black's uniform use of polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings results in a more consistent sound profile across the entire key press. Both switches offer different tactile feedback and sound characteristics, making them suitable for different preferences and usage scenarios. While the Cream Yellow may provide a more varied typing experience, the Outemu Black may offer a more consistent and predictable sound output.

Overall, the choice between the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Black ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. The Cream Yellow's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings offers a diverse sound profile with sharp and deep tones, making it suitable for those looking for a unique typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Black's consistent use of polycarbonate in both top and bottom housings provides a more uniform sound profile throughout the typing process. Both switches have their strengths and limitations, so users should consider their preferences in sound, feel, and aesthetics when making a decision between the two.

Weight

The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Black linear switch. The Cream Yellow requires 50 grams of force to actuate and 58 grams to bottom out, making it a more medium-weight option. On the other hand, the Black switch is heavier, needing 65 grams to actuate and 82 grams to bottom out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer sessions, the Cream Yellow may be the better choice. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial push feel, the Outemu Black switch would provide a more satisfying typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it is evident that the Cream Yellow has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Black's 4 mm. The Cream Yellow's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Black's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding travel distance and key press feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

Overall, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is known for its distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, providing a sharp and snappy audio feedback and a spring-like sensation when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch does not have specific subjective qualities mentioned for sound or feel. In terms of sound, the Cream Yellow offers a sharp and bright clacky sound, while the Black's sound remains unknown. Similarly, the Cream Yellow provides a bouncy and lively typing feel, while the feel of the Black switch is unspecified. Therefore, if you enjoy a clacky sound and a bouncy typing experience, the Cream Yellow switch would be a suitable choice. Remember, the overall typing experience is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a medium bottom out force and delivers a distinctively clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a heavier bottom out force and are not as concerned with sound and feel, the Outemu Black linear switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. Consider these factors carefully before making your selection to ensure the best typing experience for you.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Black Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more