KTT Laurel vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Laurel linear switch with the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it is clear that both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Laurel is beloved for its medium-light linear design, full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, providing a balance of responsiveness and comfort. Additionally, it boasts a subtly low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow offers a tactile typing experience. While the Laurel is categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Snappy', the Cream Yellow's specific categories are not provided. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for typing feel and sound. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the KTT Laurel and the Outemu Cream Yellow use different materials for their top and bottom housing, with the Laurel housing being made of POM while the Cream Yellow housing is made of nylon. The POM top housing of the Laurel creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, whereas the Cream Yellow's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM top housing.
Similarly, the bottom housing of the Laurel and Cream Yellow switches also differ in material composition, with the Laurel housing made of POM and the Cream Yellow housing made of nylon. The POM bottom housing of the Laurel creates a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted, while the Cream Yellow's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM bottom housing.
In terms of functionality, the top and bottom housings of a switch can have different impacts on the overall sound and feel of typing. The bottom housing of a switch, whether made of POM or nylon, will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether POM or nylon, will influence the sound when a key is released. Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Laurel and Cream Yellow switches aim to provide a unique and pleasing typing experience with their respective sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it is clear that the Laurel is lighter in both aspects. The Laurel has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces. The Laurel's lighter forces may cater more towards those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, while the Cream Yellow's medium forces may be more appealing to those who desire a more tactile and substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, the Laurel has a travel distance of 3.5 mm while the Cream Yellow has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for quicker response times. However, the Laurel offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cream Yellow. For those who prefer a slightly deeper keypress, the Laurel may be the preferred option. Conversely, those who prefer a more immediate and responsive feel may opt for the Cream Yellow with its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, both switches provide similar results due to their relatively close travel distances, offering a balance between responsiveness and key depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
The Outemu Cream Yellow comes in at $3.10 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 KTT Laurel linear switch is known for its subtly low-pitched sound profile, which can provide a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch's sound profile is unknown, so it is difficult to compare directly. When it comes to feel, the Laurel switch is described as snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience thanks to its longer or dual-staged springs. Unfortunately, the feel of the Cream Yellow switch is also unknown, making direct comparisons challenging.
Overall, if you were to choose between the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch based on sound and feel, the Laurel switch would likely provide a low-pitched sound profile and a snappy typing experience. However, without more information on the Cream Yellow switch, it is difficult to make a definitive comparison. Ultimately, the best way to determine which switch is right for you would be to try them both out on your preferred keyboard and keycaps to see which one suits your preferences and typing style best.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light linear switch with a light bottom out force and a subtly low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Laurel switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force and a different feel and sound profile, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch might be more up your alley. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of typing experience and sound. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs, so make sure to consider what matters most to you before making your choice.
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