KTT Cream Yellow vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the KTT Cream Yellow and the TTC Speed Silver. The Cream Yellow is known for its distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem. On the other hand, the Speed Silver offers a fast and precise typing experience with its light-medium level of resistance and reduced travel distance. While both switches have their own unique qualities, it ultimately boils down to personal preference. 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
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
The KTT Cream Yellow and TTC Speed Silver both feature polycarbonate top housings, which offer similar benefits in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The use of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffness and ability to resonate clearly. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially appealing for those who plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will deliver a satisfying and visually pleasing sound experience when the keys are released.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Cream Yellow utilizes a nylon material, while the Speed Silver also incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, both switches will offer a duller and rounder sound when pressed, creating a unique typing experience. This difference in bottom housings allows the switches to provide a varied sound and feel during both keystrokes and key releases.
Overall, the top housings of the KTT Cream Yellow and the TTC Speed Silver provide similar benefits in terms of sound profile and aesthetics, thanks to their polycarbonate composition. However, the differences in bottom housings, with the Cream Yellow featuring nylon and the Speed Silver also utilizing nylon, result in distinct sound characteristics. Whether typing on either switch, users can expect a satisfying and resonant sound, but the specific qualities may differ due to the bottom housing's impact on sound and feel during keystrokes and key releases.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch to the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that both switches fall within the medium range when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. However, there are subtle differences between the two. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Speed Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This makes the Cream Yellow slightly heavier in both aspects.
Considering weight, some individuals might prefer a lighter switch like the Speed Silver, as it allows for longer typing sessions and smoother keystrokes. This can be especially beneficial in work settings or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, others may find a heavier switch like the Cream Yellow more appealing, as it provides a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. These individuals value the tactile feedback and the sense of resistance that comes with a higher actuation and bottom out force.
Overall, both the Cream Yellow and the Speed Silver offer reliable performance within the medium range, with the Cream Yellow being slightly heavier in terms of force. If one desires a similar experience to the Cream Yellow but prefers a lighter switch, the Speed Silver can provide similar results with its slightly lower actuation and bottom out force. However, it ultimately boils down to personal preference and the typing experience that an individual seeks.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there is a slight difference in their distances. The Cream Yellow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, whereas the Speed Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Speed Silver the shorter option. The difference of 0.1 mm may seem minimal, but it can have an impact on the overall experience. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, often prefer shorter travel distances. So, if you prefer a more responsive keyboard, the Speed Silver would be the better choice. However, for those who enjoy a deeper keystroke, the Cream Yellow's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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
In terms of sound, the Cream Yellow switch is best described as clacky. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving it a crisp, bright, and percussive sound profile. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most purposes. It's worth noting that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so results may vary.
When it comes to feel, the Cream Yellow switch is known for its bouncy feedback sensation. It offers a spring-like or elastic feel when pressed, providing a lively and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch is described as mild. This means that it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of its qualities, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, the Speed Silver switch is also described as polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, further enhancing the typing experience.
Taking into account all the available information, the Cream Yellow switch is best known for its distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel. It delivers a sharp and snappy sound profile, along with a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch offers a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience. It provides a more gentle and approachable feel while also featuring a polished finish for smooth key travel. If you are looking for a more intense and vibrant typing experience, the Cream Yellow switch would be the preferable choice. However, if you prefer a more moderate and refined feel, the Speed Silver switch would be a suitable option. Regardless of your choice, it's important to consider other factors such as keyboard board and keycaps, as they can also play a role in the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a distinctively clacky sound and a uniquely bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is the way to go. With a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, it provides a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem contribute to the resonant audio feedback, while the lengthened spring adds to the bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a fast and precise typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is the better option. With a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches have reduced travel distance for quick and effortless actuation. They also offer a neutral sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes. Furthermore, the Speed Silver switches provide a mild and polished typing experience, with a more gentle feel and reduced friction. Ultimately, your choice between the Cream Yellow and Speed Silver switches depends on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
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