KTT Cream Yellow vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Dustproof Blue. The Cream Yellow is a linear switch that is designed to provide a distinctively clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem. It also offers a uniquely bouncy typing feel due to its lengthened spring, making it categorized as bouncy and clacky. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch with no specific standout features mentioned. This switch is categorized as a basic clicky switch. If you're looking for a switch with a unique sound and tactile feedback, the Cream Yellow may be the way to go. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Dustproof Blue, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for RGB lighting purposes. However, where the Cream Yellow distinguishes itself is in the use of nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The Dustproof Blue also features a nylon bottom housing, allowing both switches to provide a unique typing experience based on the combination of materials used.
Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, the Cream Yellow and Dustproof Blue differ in their choice of bottom housing material. While both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, the qualities associated with nylon are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The Cream Yellow's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue's nylon bottom housing also absorbs sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. This split in housing materials gives each switch its own unique feel and sound profile based on the combination of materials used.
Overall, the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Dustproof Blue play a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the Cream Yellow stands out with its use of nylon for the bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue also features a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound profile. Differences in typing experience can be attributed to the qualities of each housing material, highlighting the importance of material choice in the design and performance of mechanical switches.
Weight
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch both have an actuation force of 50 grams, making them equally light in terms of force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Yellow requires 58 grams, while the Dustproof Blue requires 65 grams, making the Dustproof Blue the heavier option between the two. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, the Cream Yellow may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Dustproof Blue for a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cream Yellow has a shorter travel distance compared to the Dustproof Blue. The Cream Yellow's 3.5 mm distance might appeal to those seeking faster response times, such as gamers, due to its shorter travel. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel of the Dustproof Blue may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 Dustproof 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
The Cream Yellow linear switch is known for its distinctively clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, providing a resonant and sharp audio feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch does not have specific sound descriptors available, leaving room for subjective interpretation. When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Cream Yellow offers a bouncy typing experience with its lengthened spring, giving a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation. On the other hand, specific descriptions of the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch are not available.
Overall, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow linear switch is a solid choice. While specific subjective qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch are not provided, you can expect a unique typing experience from this switch as well. Remember, individual preferences play a significant role in determining the best switch for your typing needs, so it's essential to try out different switches and find the one that suits you best.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, the key factor to consider is your preference for sound and feel. If you appreciate 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 clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Dustproof Blue could be the better option. It's important to try out both switches if possible to determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences. Happy typing!
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