KTT Cream Yellow vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile 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, a linear switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, a tactile switch. The Cream Yellow switch is best known for its distinctively clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem that provides resonant audio feedback. Additionally, its lengthened spring contributes to a uniquely bouncy typing feel. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switches by Wuque are designed with the office and work environment in mind. These switches strike a balance between tactility and noise reduction, offering a medium level of tactile feedback without compromising on silence. Crafted with precision, the WS Silent Tactile switches feature ingenious stem railings with small cutouts to minimize switch sound, while still delivering a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return. What sets these tactile switches apart is their deviation from silicone dampeners commonly found in silent switches, resulting in a typing experience that is devoid of the usual padded feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cream Yellow and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile have different top housing materials. The Cream Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile has a nylon top housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer their unique sound qualities, the Cream Yellow's polycarbonate creates a brighter and more resonant sound, while the WS Silent Tactile's nylon produces a rounder and duller sound.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Cream Yellow and the WS Silent Tactile utilize nylon as their material. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that induces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, both switches offer a similar sound experience in their bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing allows for a typing experience that elicits a satisfying and pronounced sound with each keystroke.
When it comes to the overall sound experience of the switches, the top housing material plays a significant role when you release a key, while the bottom housing material influences the sound when you bottom out. The Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top housing creates a distinct sound when letting go of a key, delivering a crisp and resonant sound. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile's nylon top housing produces a deeper sound upon key release. Therefore, although the bottom housing materials are the same in these switches, the difference in their top housing materials results in contrasting characteristics in the sound produced during the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, we find some similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Cream Yellow is 50 grams, while the actuation force of the WS Silent Tactile is unavailable, which suggests that the Cream Yellow may be lighter in terms of actuation force. Both switches have medium bottom out forces, with the Cream Yellow being slightly heavier at 58 grams compared to the WS Silent Tactile's 63.5 grams.
Considering weight, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Cream Yellow, as its actuation force is known to be lighter. This can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, as it may reduce fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience and enjoy a stronger push feel might find the WS Silent Tactile more suitable due to its heavier bottom out force. This can provide a satisfying and solid keystroke feel.
It is important to note that while the actuation force of the WS Silent Tactile is unavailable, it is possible that it could be similar to the Cream Yellow, resulting in a comparable typing experience. However, without this information, we cannot make a definitive comparison in terms of actuation force. Overall, the Cream Yellow is likely lighter in terms of actuation force, while the WS Silent Tactile is heavier in terms of bottom out force, providing users with different options depending on their preferences.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.5mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience a consistent and equal distance of key travel. So, whether you choose the Cream Yellow or the WS Silent Tactile, you can expect similar results in terms of 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 Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile comes in at $4.20 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
When it comes to sound, the Cream Yellow switch is best described as clacky. This means that when you press the keys, you will hear a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch is described as having a more neutral sound profile. It offers a moderate level of noise reduction, making it suitable for both home and work environments. The sound produced by the WS Silent Tactile switch is softer and quieter compared to a regular or clacky switch, creating a more peaceful typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switch provides a uniquely bouncy typing experience. The shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem contribute to a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. This gives the keys a lively feel and provides a rebound when pressed. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers an accented tactile experience. It provides a medium level of tactility, neither overwhelming nor subtle. This means that you will feel a pronounced amount of feedback, creating an invigorating and immersive typing sensation. Additionally, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers a mild typing experience, which is more gentle compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This middle-ground zone ensures that the sound and feel will be approachable to most users.
In conclusion, the Cream Yellow and WS Silent Tactile switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Yellow switch is clacky, providing a sharp and snappy sound, as well as a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers a more neutral sound, with a softer and quieter profile, while providing an accented tactile feel that is invigorating and mild. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and are suitable for different preferences and environments. Depending on your specific needs and preferences, you can choose between the clacky and bouncy experience of the Cream Yellow switch or the neutral and accented feel of the WS Silent Tactile switch. Either way, you can achieve satisfying results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, there are a few factors to consider. If you prioritize a distinct and clacky sound, along with a uniquely bouncy typing feel, then the Cream Yellow switch would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you work in an office or quiet environment and value a balance between tactility and noise reduction, the WS Silent Tactile switch is the ideal option. It offers a medium level of tactility without compromising on noise reduction, providing a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return. Additionally, the WS Silent Tactile switch provides an unrivaled blend of tranquility and tactility without the usual padded feel found in most silent switches. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound and feel that best suits your preferences and environment.
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