KTT Cream Yellow vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch offer unique experiences for users. The Cream Yellow is renowned for its distinctively clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem that provides resonant audio feedback. With a lengthened spring, this switch also offers a bouncy typing feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile response while typing. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch doesn't have a specific feature it is best known for, but it falls under the clicky category. While both switches have their own advantages, such as the Cream Yellow's bouncy feel and the Cream Blue's satisfying click sound, each switch caters to different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 the Outemu Cream Blue switches, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing properties. This similarity means that when typing on both switches, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound output. However, the Cream Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Cream Blue utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a duller and rounder sound due to its softer nature.
The use of different top housing materials between the Cream Yellow and Cream Blue switches results in distinct sound profiles. The Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top housing produces a clearer and more resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a sharper sound when typing. On the other hand, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast in sound profiles showcases the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience. While both switches have nylon bottom housings that contribute to a similar typing feel, the top housings play a significant role in dictating the sound output of each switch.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Cream Blue switches comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the Cream Blue's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing feel. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound output can help users make an informed decision based on their auditory preferences when selecting a switch for their mechanical keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Cream Yellow has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Cream Blue's 50 grams as well. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Yellow has a lighter 58 grams bottom out force, while the Cream Blue has a heavier 65 grams bottom out force. This means that the Cream Yellow provides a smoother typing experience with a slightly lighter feel, ideal for those who prefer a softer touch, while the Cream Blue offers a more substantial typing experience with a firmer push, preferred by those who like a stronger tactile feedback. Despite these differences, both switches provide similar results in terms of actuation force, making them both suitable choices for various preferences and needs. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference regarding the desired typing experience and force required.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cream Yellow has a shorter travel distance compared to the Cream Blue. A 3.5 mm travel distance is considered on the shorter side, making it a good choice for those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Cream Blue provides a deeper keypress feel, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Both switches offer different travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference for responsiveness or depth in keypress feel.
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 Outemu Cream Blue comes in at $3.10 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
Overall, the Cream Yellow linear switch is known for its distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, offering a crisp and bright sound when pressed along with a spring-like feedback sensation. On the other hand, the Cream Blue clicky switch does not have any specific known qualities regarding sound or feel. If you are looking for a switch with a sharp and snappy sound accompanied by a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow may be the right choice for you. It's important to note that individual preferences play a significant role in choosing the best switch for your needs, so trying out different switches on various boards with different keycaps is recommended to determine the most suitable option for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, consider your typing preferences. If you enjoy a distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clicky typing experience, the Cream Blue could be the switch for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels best for your typing style. Consider trying out both switches to see which one suits you better.
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