KTT Cream Yellow vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Ocean. The Cream Yellow is a linear switch that is distinguished by its distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy auditory and tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Ocean is a tactile switch that offers a different typing experience with its lack of specific characteristics mentioned. While the Cream Yellow may appeal to those seeking a unique typing experience, the Ocean provides a more subtle alternative. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Ocean, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, making it a popular choice for switches designed for customizable lighting setups. Furthermore, the stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience for users of both switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Cream Yellow and the Ocean utilize nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This gives users a more tactile and satisfying typing experience, as the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, the arrangement of these materials can impact the overall typing experience. The division of qualities between the top and bottom housings means that the bottom housing material, such as nylon, will influence the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material, polycarbonate in this case, will affect the sound when releasing a key. This balance between the two housing materials contributes to the unique feel and sound profile of each switch, providing users with options that cater to different preferences in typing dynamics.
Weight
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch's actuation force of 55 grams, making the Cream Yellow easier to press. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Yellow requires a heavier force of 58 grams while the bottom out force of the Ocean switch is unknown. This results in a smoother typing experience with the Cream Yellow due to the closer actuation and bottom out forces, while the Ocean switch may provide a more tactile response during typing. Choosing between the two depends on personal preference for typing feel and whether a lighter or heavier switch is desired for optimal performance.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Cream Yellow provides a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers looking for fast and precise keystrokes. On the other hand, the Ocean switch offers a deeper and more satisfying key press due to its longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique experiences depending on the user's preference, with the Cream Yellow being better suited for those seeking speed and the Ocean being ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing 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 Ocean 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 offers a distinctively clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance, long-pole stem, and lengthened spring. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is unavailable at this time. If we were to make a comparison based on the known qualities of the Cream Yellow, we can expect a unique sound and bouncy feel from the Ocean switch as well. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as well as other factors like board and keycap choices.
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 the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with an undefined bottom out force, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch might be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for sound and feel while typing.
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