KTT Cream Yellow vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cream Yellow and Gateron Weightlessness offer vastly different experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The KTT Cream Yellow, a linear switch, is celebrated for its remarkably clacky sound, thanks to a shortened bottom-out distance and a long-pole stem, which not only provides resonant audio feedback but also enhances the overall typing experience with a uniquely bouncy feel due to its lengthened spring. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness stands out as a tactile switch that delivers a subtle to moderate tactile bump, offering a balanced sound profile that complements its tactile characteristics. Those looking for a lively and engaging auditory feedback might lean towards the clacky nature of the Cream Yellow, while those who prefer a more composed and nuanced typing experience might appreciate the tactile feedback of the Weightlessness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cream Yellow switch features a polycarbonate top housing, distinguished by its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic comes from the relative stiffness of polycarbonate, which lends itself to a more resonant audio experience compared to softer plastics. Furthermore, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it an attractive choice for users seeking aesthetic appeal alongside performance. In this regard, the Cream Yellow's top housing stands out as ideal for those who appreciate visual customization options paired with distinct sound qualities.
In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness utilizes a nylon top housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, which results in a deeper and fuller auditory profile. Consequently, the sound produced while typing on these switches tends to be rounder and less resonant than that of the Cream Yellow. The choice of nylon for the top housing may appeal to those who prefer a quieter typing experience with less higher-end sound clarity, showcasing how the material impacts the overall acoustic dynamics of the switch despite both serving as top housings.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, it is noteworthy that both the KTT Cream Yellow and Gateron Weightlessness employ nylon. This shared composition allows them to deliver a similar deep and full sound profile, affirming nylon's reputation as a classic housing material. While the top housings differ significantly and influence how each switch sounds during pressing and releasing, the uniformity of the nylon bottom housing ensures that users will experience a consistent and well-rounded feel regardless of the specific model chosen. Thus, while the sound characteristics vary due to the differing top materials, the nylon bottom across both models facilitates a common acoustic foundation, minimizing the variances in their overall auditory outputs.
Weight
The KTT Cream Yellow and Gateron Weightlessness switches exhibit similar actuation forces, both requiring 50 grams to trigger a keystroke. This similarity in actuation force suggests that users will experience a comparable level of resistance when pressing down on either switch, making both suitable for those who prefer a moderate push feel during typing or gaming. However, the bottom out force diverges between the two; the Cream Yellow has a bottom out force of 58 grams, indicating a firmer response when the key is pressed all the way down. In contrast, the Weightlessness switch’s bottom out force remains unknown. Consequently, while the KTT Cream Yellow is categorized as the heavier option due to its defined bottom out force, the absence of this information for the Gateron Weightlessness leaves its overall weight unspecified. Those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may gravitate toward the Cream Yellow, while users who prefer a lighter touch may find a favorable experience with the Weightlessness, pending its bottom out characteristics.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Cream Yellow switch the longer option, providing a bit more depth in each keystroke compared to the Weightlessness. For gamers or users who prioritize responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the Weightlessness may be appealing, as it allows for quicker actuation. Conversely, those who prefer a more pronounced feedback and a hearty depth in their typing experience might opt for the Cream Yellow switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference, whether one favors responsiveness or depth in keystrokes.
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 Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is distinguished by its clacky audio profile, which is characterized by a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This crisp, bright, and percussive auditory feedback is enhanced by the switch's shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, which contribute to its resonant quality. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch has a balanced sound profile that complements its tactile properties. While it may not have the same level of crispness associated with the Cream Yellow, it offers a subtle to moderate sound that maintains a pleasant typing experience. Ultimately, both switches deliver satisfying audio feedback, but they appeal to different preferences, with the Cream Yellow being more pronounced and the Weightlessness providing a more understated sound.
In terms of feel, the KTT Cream Yellow switch is not explicitly described here but is known for delivering a uniquely bouncy typing sensation, primarily due to its lengthened spring and shorter bottom-out distance. This combination typically results in a responsive experience, making it ideal for fast typists or gamers who appreciate a dynamic feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness presents a subtle to moderate tactile bump, which offers a gentle feedback that can enhance typing accuracy without interrupting the flow of key presses. This tactile sensation is designed to provide a comfortable experience for users who enjoy a noticeable yet smooth actuation. Thus, while the Cream Yellow focuses on a bouncier and livelier approach, the Weightlessness emphasizes a more refined and balanced tactile feedback.
In summary, the KTT Cream Yellow and Gateron Weightlessness switches cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The Cream Yellow is characterized by its clacky, resonant sound and responsive, bouncy feel, making it suitable for those who enjoy an energetic typing experience. Meanwhile, the Weightlessness offers a subtler audio profile and moderate tactile feedback, appealing to users who prefer a more balanced approach. Ultimately, each switch presents unique qualities that can influence a typist's or gamer's experience, allowing individuals to choose based on their personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and what you value in a keyboard experience. If you enjoy a lively and energetic typing feel, along with a distinctively clacky sound that provides immediate auditory feedback, the Cream Yellow would be an excellent fit for you. The bouncy response and the resonant audio feedback are ideal for those who find joy in a dynamic typing experience, making it perfect for gaming or fast-paced typing tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile experience that offers a balanced sound profile without the clackiness, the Weightlessness switches should be your go-to. Their moderate tactile feedback makes them suitable for extended typing sessions where a quieter, more refined sound environment is desired, such as in an office setting or for focused work. Therefore, consider your specific needs for feedback, sound, and feel when determining which switch genuinely enhances your keyboard experience.
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