KTT Cream Yellow vs. Outemu Brown

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Brown present unique options that cater to different typing preferences. The Cream Yellow, a linear switch, stands out for its pronounced clacky sound and vibrant feel, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem that enhance audio feedback and provide a bouncy typing experience. If you value an engaging auditory sensation and a smooth keystroke, the Cream Yellow may be your ideal choice. In contrast, while the Outemu Brown lacks any distinctive sound profile, it excels with its tactile feedback, which is perfect for typists who appreciate a subtle bump upon actuation, allowing for more precise typing without the need for auditory cues. This makes the Brown switch a solid option for those who prefer a quiet yet responsive 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 Brown Tactile

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Cream Yellow and Outemu Brown switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. This material's stiffness allows for a clearer and more resonant sound, making it particularly suitable for switches intended to be illuminated with RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the lighting effect. Therefore, users can expect similar acoustic results from both switches when it comes to the top housing, as the qualities intrinsic to polycarbonate will be reflected in both models.

In contrast, both the Cream Yellow and Outemu Brown feature nylon bottom housings, which provide distinct auditory characteristics compared to the top housing. Nylon is known for its softer composition, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its ability to absorb sound contributes to a more muted and rounded auditory experience when typing. Here, the nylon plays a crucial role in defining the bottom-out feel of the switch, as it dampens the sound and provides a more cushiony feedback. While the top housings of both switches may offer a bright and crisp sound, the bottom housings bring a warmth and depth that differentiates the overall typing experience.

When considering the combined effects of both the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings, users can expect a nuanced sound profile from both switch types. The polycarbonate material will influence the auditory sharpness and brightness upon release, whereas the nylon will round out the overall tone when the key is bottomed out. This blend of qualities results in a well-rounded typing experience, merging the top housing's clarity with the bottom housing's depth to create a harmonious sound. Thus, whether opting for the KTT Cream Yellow or the Outemu Brown, users can appreciate a balanced auditory profile characterized by both crispness and fullness.

Weight

The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for differing typing preferences. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Outemu Brown requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Cream Yellow is the lighter option, providing a more effortless keystroke that may be preferable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Brown's heavier forces cater to those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience. While both switches fall into the medium to medium-heavy category, the Cream Yellow offers a less strenuous option for users, making it ideal for long-term use without fatigue, whereas the Outemu Brown will appeal to those who appreciate a firmer press beneath their fingers.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference: the Cream Yellow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Brown measures 4 mm. This makes the Cream Yellow the shorter option, appealing to those who prefer a quicker response time often favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown’s longer travel distance provides a more traditional key feel, which some users may find more satisfying and less abrupt. Thus, if you lean towards a more responsive experience, the KTT Cream Yellow would be the better choice, whereas the Outemu Brown is suited for those who enjoy a deeper, more tactile connection when typing.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When considering sound, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch distinctly stands out due to its clacky quality. This switch produces a sharp and snappy sound, characterized by crisp, bright, and percussive audio feedback when a key is pressed. The design elements, such as its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, contribute significantly to this resonant sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch does not have a specific sound profile elaborated, meaning it may not offer a standout auditory experience compared to the Cream Yellow. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that the overall sound can vary based on the keyboard’s construction and the type of keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the KTT Cream Yellow switch is renowned for its bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like responsiveness and a lively typing experience. Users can expect a pleasurable rebound effect with each press, making typing feel dynamic and engaging. Conversely, there is no specific tactile feel detailed for the Outemu Brown switch, which raises uncertainty about how it might compare. This absence of information suggests that the Brown may not provide a unique tactile feedback similar to the Cream Yellow's distinctive bounciness.

In conclusion, the KTT Cream Yellow switch excels in both sound and feel, offering a clacky auditory experience alongside a bouncy typing sensation. The Outemu Brown switch, however, lacks definitive qualities in these areas, leaving its performance somewhat ambiguous. Thus, for those who prioritize auditory and tactile feedback in their mechanical keyboard experience, the Cream Yellow is likely the superior option, while the Brown’s indistinct characteristics may lead to a more generic typing encounter. If you're aiming for an engaging mechanical keyboard experience rich in sound and feel, the KTT Cream Yellow is the clear choice.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel. If you enjoy a lively typing experience with a noticeable auditory feedback, the Cream Yellow is the perfect match, offering a unique bouncy action and a distinctively clacky sound that can make typing feel more engaging and fun. This switch is ideal for those who often type or game for extended periods, as its responsive nature and lighter actuation can enhance comfort and performance. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued yet solid typing experience, the Outemu Brown switch may be the better option for you. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force provides a more deliberate feel, which is great for touch typists who appreciate the tactile feedback without the loudness of a clacky switch. In essence, if you're seeking an expressive and energetic typing experience, opt for the Cream Yellow; but if you favor a quieter and more refined tactile sensation, the Brown will serve you well.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Cream Yellow Linear

$2.75

$2.55 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more