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KTT Cream Yellow vs. Outemu Gold

An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When comparing the KTT Cream Yellow, a linear switch, to the Outemu Gold, a clicky switch, there are some distinct differences to consider. 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. Additionally, the lengthened spring in the Cream Yellow offers a uniquely bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold lacks a standout feature in terms of sound or feel. While the Cream Yellow is categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', the Gold does not fall into any specific category. When deciding between these switches, choosing the Cream Yellow may be ideal for those seeking a satisfying auditory response and a bouncy typing feel, while the Gold may cater to individuals who prefer a more generic 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

Technical specifications

Actuation force

50g

Actuation force

45g

Bottom-out force

58g

Bottom-out force

60g

Pre-travel

1.90 mm

Pre-travel

1.80 mm

Total travel

3.50 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Factory lubed

Yes

Factory lubed

Yes

Stem construction

Standard

Stem construction

Standard

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

The key difference between the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Gold lies in their top housing material. Both switches have a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for use with RGB lighting, as it allows light to shine through the housing, creating a visually appealing effect. Despite these similarities in top housing material, the Cream Yellow and the Outemu Gold differ in their bottom housing material.

In terms of bottom housing material, both switches feature a nylon housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch when it is pressed down, as it has a direct impact on the bottom-out sound. This contrasts with the top housing, which influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, while the Cream Yellow and the Outemu Gold have similar bottom housing materials, their differences lie primarily in the top housing material.

Overall, the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Gold work together to create a unique typing experience. The combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both switches results in a balance of sharpness and depth in sound profile. While the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing has more of an impact on the sound when pressing down on the switch. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their distinct housing materials, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, the Cream Yellow is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gold's 45 grams. However, the Cream Yellow has a lighter bottom out force of 58 grams compared to the Gold's 60 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Gold switch, while those who prefer a slightly heavier touch may prefer the Cream Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and experience.

Travel distance

The Cream Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Gold clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Gold switch is slightly longer in travel distance compared to the Cream Yellow switch. The difference may not seem significant, but for some users, even a fraction of a millimeter can affect the typing or gaming experience. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Cream Yellow switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more tactile and deep key press may lean towards the Outemu Gold switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, as both options offer a unique feel and experience.

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 Gold 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, when comparing the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is clear that they offer distinct experiences for users. The Cream Yellow is known for its clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a sharp and springy feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Gold switch's sound and feel qualities are unknown. In terms of sound, the Cream Yellow provides a crisp and percussive sound, while the Gold's sound remains a mystery. Similarly, the Cream Yellow offers a bouncy and lively typing feel, while the Gold's feel characteristics are not specified. If a user were to choose between these two switches based solely on sound and feel, it is evident that the Cream Yellow would provide a more defined and satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, then the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a medium bottom out force and are not concerned about specific sound or feel characteristics, the Outemu Gold clicky switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.

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