KTT Matcha vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Matcha and the Outemu Yellow Silver are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches that offer different experiences to users. The Matcha is well-regarded for its tactile feedback, providing a comfortable and snappy typing experience. Additionally, users can expect a clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver is known for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it ideal for gamers and typists seeking speediness and responsiveness. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision in choosing the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Matcha and the Outemu Yellow Silver both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a similar sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, making it ideal for those seeking a more distinct and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. Therefore, whether you choose the Matcha or Yellow Silver, you can expect comparable results in terms of sound and aesthetics.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Matcha and Yellow Silver differ in their materials. The Matcha utilizes polycarbonate, mirroring the top housing, which maintains consistency in the sound profile and overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver opts for a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known to produce a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound vibrations. This results in a slightly duller and rounder sound profile compared to the sharper and crisper sound produced by polycarbonate. So, if you prefer a typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound, the Yellow Silver's nylon bottom housing would be a suitable choice.
It's important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles in the overall sound and feel of a switch. While the qualities of the bottom housing predominantly affect the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when you release a key. Therefore, even though the Matcha and Yellow Silver may differ in their bottom housing materials, the overall typing experience wouldn't be drastically different. Both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience, with the bottom housing contributing to the bottom-out sound and the top housing influencing the sound upon release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. The Matcha has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Yellow Silver with an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Matcha requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Matcha has a lighter force of 45 grams compared to the Yellow Silver with a force of 55 grams. This indicates that the Yellow Silver provides a slightly more substantial typing experience as it requires a heavier push to fully press down.
Considering weight, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Matcha, as its actuation and bottom out forces are both lighter than the Yellow Silver. This can be beneficial for those looking to type for extended periods, such as in a work setting or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, for individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Yellow Silver may be preferable. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing sensation.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch refers to the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed down. In the case of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent 4 mm of travel distance. Both switches offer similar results in terms of the travel distance experienced by the user. Therefore, it can be concluded that the travel distance of these switches is equal, providing a comparable typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
The Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Matcha is known for its clacky sound profile. This means that when pressed, the switch produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver is known for its neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound with no specific descriptors provided. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Matcha switch has several descriptors that define its tactile experience. It is described as stepped, which means it has two stages of tactility with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. It is also snappy, meaning it is super responsive due to longer or dual-staged springs. Additionally, it is accented, providing a notable amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. The Matcha switch is also feathery, offering a light and effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue. Lastly, it is described as subtle, offering a gentle resistance and a sound signature that is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, no specific information is provided about the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch.
To conclude, the KTT Matcha and Outemu Yellow Silver switches have different qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Matcha switch produces a clacky sound and offers a stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle tactile experience. On the other hand, no specific information is provided about the sound or feel of the Yellow Silver switch. If you are looking for a tactile switch with a distinct sound profile and specific tactile qualities, the KTT Matcha is a great option. However, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and unknown tactile qualities, the Yellow Silver may also be a suitable choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a comfortable and snappy tactility, as well as a clean bottom-out sound, the KTT Matcha is the switch for you. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, it offers a light typing feel that is perfect for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prioritize speediness and responsiveness, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is a great choice. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, it provides a medium-light feel and a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference and typing style. Whether you prefer a tactile experience or a linear one, both switches offer their own advantages. In the end, it's important to choose the switch that matches your needs and enhances your typing experience.
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