KTT Cream Yellow vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Type S both offer unique features to consider. The Cream Yellow switch is known for its distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a tactile and auditory typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" line offers a weightier keystroke and a more neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, appealing to users looking for a quieter and smoother typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cream Yellow and Gateron Type S switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Cream Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound compared to the Type S's nylon top housing. The polycarbonate material is stiffer, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound profile, while the nylon material of the Type S absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches offer a distinct auditory experience based on their housing materials.
Moreover, the Cream Yellow and Type S switches also differ in their bottom housing materials. The Cream Yellow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, akin to its top housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Type S's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, showcasing how the choice of material can impact the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Cream Yellow and Type S switches may have contrasting housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate and nylon materials used in the top and bottom housings of these switches provide distinct auditory experiences, with the Cream Yellow offering a crisper and sharper sound and the Type S providing a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, we can see that the Cream Yellow has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Type S's 55 grams. However, the Cream Yellow requires a slightly heavier bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Type S is heavier with a bottom out force of 65 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range of force, but the Type S leans towards the medium-heavy side. For those who prefer a lighter feel when typing for extended periods, the Cream Yellow may be the better option, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Type S. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron Type S linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of common travel distances for mechanical keyboard switches, with the Type S being on the longer end of the spectrum. Gamers may prefer the Cream Yellow for its shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Type S. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and 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 Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 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
The Cream Yellow linear switch is known for its distinctively clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. This sound is achieved through its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, providing resonant audio feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. When it comes to feel, the Cream Yellow switch offers a uniquely bouncy typing sensation due to its lengthened spring, providing a lively and elastic feedback when pressed. However, information on the typing feel of the Gateron Type S switch is not provided.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it is evident that the Cream Yellow and Type S linear switches offer contrasting qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cream Yellow switch provides a clacky and bouncy typing experience, the Type S switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharp and lively typing sound or a quieter and more muted one, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Cream Yellow and Type S switch will depend on your personal preferences for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, you should consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize a distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound with a subtle and subdued acoustic experience, as well as a weightier keystroke, the Gateron Type S might be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences for sound and feel.
Mentioned in this article
