KTT Cream Yellow vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Cream Pink mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, a distinct difference arises in their design and typing experience. The Cream Yellow switch is renowned for its clacky sound produced by the shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, offering a uniquely bouncy typing feel due to the lengthened spring. On the other hand, the Cream Pink switch lacks a distinctive feature in terms of sound or feel. The Cream Yellow is categorized as bouncy and clacky, while the Cream Pink lacks a notable characteristic. When choosing a switch, one might opt for the Cream Yellow for its lively typing experience and resonant audio feedback, as opposed to the quieter and less defined feel of the Cream Pink. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal 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
2.00 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 Pink, we can see that both switches feature a nylon bottom housing. This nylon material is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition which absorbs more sound. However, the Cream Yellow stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. While both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, the difference in the top housing material results in a distinct sound experience for each switch.
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Cream Yellow not only affects the sound profile but also provides aesthetic benefits. Polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. In contrast, the Cream Pink's nylon top housing offers a more classic switch housing material that elicits a deep and full sound profile. Both switches offer unique sound qualities based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. Still, the differences in sound produced by the Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top housing and the Cream Pink's nylon top housing showcase how varying materials can impact the overall typing experience.
While the bottom housing material may have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, the top housing material can influence the sound when releasing a key. In this case, the Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top housing is likely to produce a more distinct sound upon key release compared to the Cream Pink's nylon top housing. Both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch. Whether opting for the crisper and higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon, keyboard enthusiasts can enjoy a customized typing experience based on their preference for housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force is the same for both switches at 50 grams. However, the bottom out force differs, with the Cream Yellow requiring 58 grams and the Cream Pink needing 65 grams. The Cream Yellow can be considered lighter in terms of bottom out force compared to the Cream Pink, which is medium-heavy. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience to avoid fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming, the Cream Yellow may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Cream Pink for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter compared to the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, the Cream Pink offers slightly more depth in travel distance, which may be preferred by those who like a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and the level of responsiveness desired.
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 Pink 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 KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is best known for its distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, while the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch lacks specific descriptions in these areas. If you are looking for a switch with a sharp and snappy sound and a lively, spring-like feel, the Cream Yellow would be the preferred choice. However, if you are unsure about the sound and feel preferences and want to try different options, both switches could provide similar results depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. Ultimately, it is essential to consider personal preferences and test out different switches to find the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, consider the factors that are most important to you. If you prioritize a distinctively clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, then the Cream Yellow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force without any particular sound or feel preference mentioned for the Cream Pink, then it may be the better option. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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