KTT Cream Yellow vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the KTT Cream Yellow and the Jwick Taro. The Cream Yellow is a linear switch, known for delivering a distinctively clacky sound with its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem. Its lengthened spring also provides a bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the Taro is a tactile switch, offering a cozy typing experience with a snappy, medium-level of tactility. It produces acute and crisp clacks while maintaining a neutral and buttery feel. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
The housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Jwick Taro switches are almost identical, as both feature a polycarbonate top housing. This type of housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for better visibility of RGB lighting, making it ideal for those who plan to use this feature. Therefore, both the Cream Yellow and the Taro switches will provide similar sound and aesthetic experiences due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
However, the bottom housing of these switches sets them apart. The Cream Yellow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Taro also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This characteristic of nylon results in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, when pressing down on the Cream Yellow or the Taro switches, the properties of the nylon bottom housing will greatly impact the bottom-out sound and feel.
In terms of key release sound, the top housing plays a significant role. As both the Cream Yellow and the Taro switches share a polycarbonate top housing, the sound produced when letting go of a key will be quite similar. The stiffness of the polycarbonate plastic will contribute to a sharp and crisp sound profile upon key release. Thus, although the bottom housings differ, the shared top housing material ensures that the sound when releasing a key will be consistent between the Cream Yellow and the Taro switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there are a few notable differences. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Taro's actuation force is unknown. Both switches, however, have a medium bottom out force of 58 grams for the Cream Yellow and 67 grams for the Taro, making the Taro slightly heavier in this aspect.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cream Yellow switch. Its actuation force of 50 grams allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push may opt for the Taro switch. While the actuation force of the Taro is unspecified, its heavier bottom out force of 67 grams provides a satisfying tactile feedback.
Overall, the Cream Yellow is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Taro is slightly heavier with its higher bottom out force. Those seeking a similar typing experience will find that both switches have a medium actuation force, providing comparable results.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch have different travel distances. The Cream Yellow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Taro has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In terms of comparison, both switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as they allow for faster response times. If responsiveness is a priority for you, the Cream Yellow with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. However, some individuals may find short travel distances to be too abrupt, preferring switches with more depth. In that case, the Taro with its longer travel distance would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and the desired level of depth or responsiveness.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem that delivers resonant audio feedback. Additionally, the lengthened spring contributes to a uniquely bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the Taro switch is described as neutral, meaning it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switch provides a bouncy experience, resembling a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. The keys have a lively feel and offer rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the Taro switch is described as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This switch provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the Taro switch can also be considered stepped, meaning it has a two-stage tactile feel. Unlike hypertactile switches that have a pronounced bump throughout the keystroke, the stepped switches have a milder sensation with noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel.
In conclusion, the Cream Yellow and Taro switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Yellow switch provides a clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, while the Taro switch delivers a neutral sound and a buttery typing experience with stepped tactile features. Each switch offers a unique typing experience, catering to different preferences. However, if the desired sound is clacky and the desired feel is bouncy, using the Taro switch may yield similar results as the Cream Yellow switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is an excellent choice. It has a medium bottom out force of 58 grams and provides resonant audio feedback due to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem. The lengthened spring also contributes to a uniquely bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a cozy typing experience with a snappy tactility and acute, crisp clacks, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is the way to go. It has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams and provides a comfortable and tactile typing experience. The Taro switches have a medium-level of tactility and a neutral sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
