KTT Lightning vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Lightning and Outemu Cream Yellow are popular options to consider. The KTT Lightning is a linear switch, known for its "speed" capabilities which makes it ideal for situations where split-second reactions are crucial. Typing on the Lightning offers a slick feel with a clacky sound profile, perfect for gamers and fast typists alike. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow is a tactile switch, offering a different typing experience. Although not known for any specific features, the Cream Yellow switch provides a different tactile feedback that some users may prefer. 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
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Lightning uses a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when compared to the Outemu Cream Yellow's nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches intended to showcase RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder tone. While both materials are classic choices for switch housings, they each bring a distinct sound quality to the typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Lightning and Cream Yellow switches feature nylon housings, which provide a similar typing experience. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. The use of nylon for both bottom housings ensures a consistent sound and feel throughout the keystroke, making the typing experience cohesive and enjoyable. While the top and bottom housings of a switch may affect different aspects of the sound profile, having the same housing material on both ends can lead to a harmonious typing experience overall.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Cream Yellow ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Lightning switch results in a sharper and more resonant sound, while the Cream Yellow's nylon housing offers a deeper and fuller tone. Both switches provide a unique typing experience thanks to their housing materials, with the Lightning emphasizing clarity and the Cream Yellow focusing on a rounder sound. Whether you prefer a bright, higher-pitched sound or a mellower, fuller tone, both switches offer distinct qualities worth considering.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it is evident that the Lightning switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. The Lightning switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Cream Yellow switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Lightning switch requires a lighter touch to activate and press all the way down compared to the Cream Yellow switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Lightning switch more suitable, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Cream Yellow switch. Ultimately, choosing between the two depends on individual preferences for typing force.
Travel distance
The KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall on the shorter end of the spectrum in terms of travel distance, making them ideal for those looking for quicker response times and a more tactile experience. However, the Cream Yellow offers a slightly deeper key press compared to the Lightning. Gamers may prefer the Lightning for its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more pronounced key press may opt for the Cream Yellow. Ultimately, both switches offer similar performance and results, with the main difference being the slight variance in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41, 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
The KTT Lightning linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch's sound profile is not specified, so we cannot directly compare the two in terms of sound. When it comes to feel, the Lightning switch offers a subtle typing experience with a gentle resistance and a light feel, making it suitable for shared spaces. Additionally, it provides a polished finish for a smooth and refined typing experience. The Cream Yellow tactile switch's feel is also unspecified, so direct comparison in this aspect is not possible.
In conclusion, the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch offer different sound profiles and feelings during typing. The Lightning switch provides a clacky sound and a subtle, polished feel, ideal for fast typing scenarios where milliseconds matter. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch does not have specified sound or feel qualities mentioned, making it harder to compare directly. However, since both switches cater to different preferences and needs, it is essential to try out both to determine which one suits your typing style and preferences best. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and the intended use case.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, you should consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize speed and a light, clacky feel with a bottom out force of 50 grams, the Lightning switch is a great choice, especially for competitive gaming or fast typing tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and a tactile typing experience, the Cream Yellow switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice should be based on whether you prioritize speed and lightness with the Lightning switch or prefer a tactile typing experience with the Cream Yellow switch.
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