KTT Cream Yellow vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch. The Cream Yellow is renowned for its distinctively clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem that provide resonant audio feedback. Additionally, the lengthened spring in the Cream Yellow switch offers a uniquely bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze switch does not have any standout characteristics mentioned. The Cream Yellow switch is categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', while the Spring Breeze switch is not categorized. If you're looking for a switch with a satisfying auditory experience and a responsive spring, the Cream Yellow might be the way to go. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Spring Breeze, one noticeable difference is in the top housing material. The Cream Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer nature. In contrast, the Spring Breeze utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Despite these differences, both switch variations offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences - the Cream Yellow for those who prefer a crisper sound, and the Spring Breeze for those who enjoy a deeper tone.
Another point of comparison between the two switches is found in their bottom housing material. Both the Cream Yellow and Spring Breeze use nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures a consistent typing experience across both switches, with the focus on providing a satisfying sound and feel for users.
It is worth noting that the choice of housing material for a switch can significantly impact the overall typing experience. While the Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper sound when releasing a key, the Spring Breeze's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a consistent typing experience by absorbing sound and creating a more muted tone. Ultimately, the housing materials of the Cream Yellow and Spring Breeze cater to different sound preferences, offering users the opportunity to customize their typing experience based on personal preference.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it is evident that the Cream Yellow requires a slightly heavier touch compared to the Spring Breeze. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Spring Breeze has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Cream Yellow can be considered on the medium side in terms of force required for typing, while the Spring Breeze falls on the lighter side. Both switches provide a tactile typing experience but cater to different preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Spring Breeze, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Cream Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, which has a 4 mm travel distance. This means that the Cream Yellow offers a slightly shallower keypress compared to the deeper press of the Spring Breeze. Gamers looking for quicker response times may prefer the Cream Yellow with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more tactile and satisfying press may lean towards the longer travel distance of the Spring Breeze. Both switches offer different experiences due to their travel distances, catering to individual preferences.
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 Spring Breeze 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, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a tactile and audible typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch does not have specific subjective qualities mentioned. Based on the information provided, if you prefer a switch with a sharp and snappy sound and a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow would be the optimal choice. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the right switch for you, so it is recommended to try out different switches to determine which one suits your typing style and preferences best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences. If you enjoy a bouncy and unique typing feel with a distinctively clacky sound, the Cream Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and are looking for a switch that provides a crisp and bright sound when pressed, the Spring Breeze could be the right fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what tactile and auditory experience you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.