TKC Kiwi vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Cream Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are tactile switches, there are some key differences to consider. The TKC Kiwi is celebrated for its tactile feedback, offering a medium to medium-strong bump with each key press, resulting in a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the Kiwi switches come lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing sensation from the get-go. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch lacks specific notable features but is still a tactile switch. It is unaccustomed to having attributes but appeals to users for its simplicity. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Cream Yellow both feature unique housing materials that have a significant impact on the sound profile of the switches. The Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing provides a bright and resonant clack when typing, while the Cream Yellow's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, both materials are effective in their own ways: UHWMPE produces a sharper sound, while nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder tone. This contrast in sound characteristics can cater to different preferences among users, with some favoring the bright and crisp sound of UHWMPE, while others may prefer the more mellow and deep tone of nylon.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Cream Yellow employ distinct materials that contribute to the overall typing experience. The UHWMPE bottom housing of the Kiwi provides a bright and resonant sound signature, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow's nylon bottom housing aids in creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both materials have their unique attributes, they ultimately work together to enhance the overall sound and feel of the switches. This duality in housing materials allows for a more well-rounded typing experience that caters to a variety of preferences.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Cream Yellow, it is evident that each material brings its own set of qualities to the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. While the UHWMPE and nylon materials differ in their sound characteristics, they both contribute to creating an immersive typing experience for users. Ultimately, whether you prefer the bright and resonant clacks of UHWMPE or the deep and full sound profile of nylon, both the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Cream Yellow offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch are slightly heavier compared to the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch. The Kiwi requires 43 grams of force to actuate and 67 grams to bottom out, while the Cream Yellow requires 45 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out. Both switches fall within the medium range of force, but the Kiwi is slightly heavier in both aspects. If you prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Cream Yellow may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the Kiwi may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and how much force you prefer in your typing experience.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Cream Yellow's travel distance is shorter than the Kiwi's, with the Kiwi having a more traditional 4 mm travel distance compared to the Cream Yellow's shallower 3.3 mm distance. Gamers may lean towards the Cream Yellow for its faster response time with the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the Kiwi. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00, whereas the Outemu Cream Yellow comes in at $3.10.
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 Kiwi switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, which provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch's sound profile is unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Kiwi switch provides a stepped, accented, and polished typing experience, offering a two-stage tactile feel that is not overwhelming or subtle. This results in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, the tactile feel of the Cream Yellow switch is unknown, making it challenging to compare the two switches in this regard.
In conclusion, based on the available information, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch seems to offer a well-rounded typing experience with its satisfyingly snappy sound profile and stepped, accented, and polished tactile feel. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch remain unknown, if you are looking for a tactile switch that provides a medium to medium-strong bump with a low-pitched sound and an accented feel, the TKC Kiwi switch may be a suitable choice for you. Remember that individual preferences can vary, so it's essential to consider your typing style and preferences when choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, and a stepped, accented, and polished feel, the TKC Kiwi may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a sound profile that has not been described, and are not concerned with feel characteristics, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch may be more suitable for your keyboard preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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