KTT Orange vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT Orange and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Orange linear switch to the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it becomes apparent that each offers unique typing experiences. The KTT Orange stands out for its bouncy feel, frictionless keystrokes, and low-pitched sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a smooth and quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue provides a satisfying clicky sound with each press, appealing to those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. Each switch has its own advantages, with the Orange offering a refined, factory-lubed key travel and the Cream Blue delivering a more tactile and audible typing experience. 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
46g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Orange and the Outemu Cream Blue, it is clear that they differ significantly in terms of the materials used. The Orange utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. On the other hand, the Cream Blue features a nylon top and bottom housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. These differences in housing materials result in distinct sound experiences when typing on the switches.
However, despite their differences in housing materials, both the KTT Orange and the Outemu Cream Blue ultimately aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the Orange may offer a sharper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Cream Blue provides a deeper sound experience. Nevertheless, both switches are designed to cater to the preferences of keyboard enthusiasts who value the auditory feedback of their typing experience. Therefore, while the specific sound profiles may vary, users can expect a similarly enjoyable typing experience from both switches.
In considering the impact of the different top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound profile of the switches, it becomes apparent that each component plays a crucial role in shaping the typing experience. The bottom housing, whether polycarbonate or nylon, influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, whereas the top housing has a more pronounced effect on the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housing materials demonstrates the meticulous attention to detail that goes into designing and engineering mechanical switches to provide users with a customizable and dynamic typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Orange is lighter in both regards. The Orange has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Cream Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The Orange provides a medium-light feel, making it ideal for long typing sessions and gaming, allowing for quick and effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, the Cream Blue offers a medium-heavy feel, providing a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push required for each keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The comparison between the KTT Orange linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch reveals a clear contrast in their travel distances. The Orange switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cream Blue switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Cream Blue switch the longer option between the two. The shorter travel distance of the Orange switch may appeal to gamers seeking a faster response time, while the longer travel distance of the Cream Blue switch could provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who appreciate a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
The Outemu Cream Blue 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
Overall, the KTT Orange linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile with a bouncy and frictionless feel, thanks to its spring design and excellent factory-lubing. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch's sound profile and feel are unknown. If you enjoy a smooth and fluid typing experience with a bouncy feel and low-pitched sound, the KTT Orange switch would be a solid choice. However, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a different sound and feel profile, you may want to consider exploring other options. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a bouncy, frictionless typing experience, then the KTT Orange linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its unique features such as the 22mm long spring and factory-lubed components, you can expect a smooth and fluid key travel with a low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clicky typing experience, you may want to consider the Outemu Cream Blue switch. Although not much information is available about the Cream Blue switch, if you enjoy the tactile feedback and audible click sound of a clicky switch, it could be a good option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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