Outemu Cream Yellow vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Cream Yellow and the KTT Phalaenopsis mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both offer distinct advantages for different types of users. The Cream Yellow switch is known for its unique characteristics, while the Phalaenopsis switch stands out with its light actuation force and satisfying tactile bump. The Cream Yellow switch remains mysterious when it comes to standout features, while the Phalaenopsis switch offers a delightful typing experience with its 37g actuation force and discernible tactile bump. 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
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Cream Yellow and the KTT Phalaenopsis differ in terms of their housing materials. The Cream Yellow features a nylon top and bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Phalaenopsis switch also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch.
While both switches offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials, they also share similarities in how they impact the overall typing experience. The use of nylon in the Cream Yellow creates a duller and rounder sound, especially when bottoming out a key, while the stiffer polycarbonate in the Phalaenopsis leads to a more clear and resonant sound. This difference in sound characteristics based on housing materials can significantly alter the typing experience for the user.
In conclusion, the choice between the Outemu Cream Yellow and the KTT Phalaenopsis ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. The nylon housing of the Cream Yellow offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate housing of the Phalaenopsis produces a sharper and crisper sound. Whether you prefer a softer, duller sound or a clearer, more resonant sound, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch. The Cream Yellow requires 45 grams of force to actuate a key and 60 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-weight option. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis only requires 37 grams to actuate a key and 50 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter choice. This means that the Cream Yellow will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Phalaenopsis will offer a lighter typing experience that may be preferred for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch. The Cream Yellow offers a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis provides a longer travel distance, which may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial key press. Both switches offer different travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for responsiveness and key press depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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
When it comes to sound, the Cream Yellow switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, while the Phalaenopsis switch is described as both "Bassy" and "Thocky." This means that the Phalaenopsis switch offers a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones, as well as producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. Depending on your preference for sound, the Phalaenopsis switch may offer a more enjoyable auditory experience compared to the Cream Yellow switch, which lacks specific sound characteristics.
In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, while the Phalaenopsis switch is described as "Stepped." This means that the Phalaenopsis switch has a tactile feel that resembles two stages, offering some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. In comparison, the Cream Yellow switch may offer a different tactile experience due to the lack of specific information provided. Depending on your preference for tactile feedback, the Phalaenopsis switch may provide a more nuanced and varied typing experience compared to the Cream Yellow switch.
Overall, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a light actuation force of 37g, providing effortless typing and minimizing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. With a tactile force of 50g, each keystroke on the Phalaenopsis switch is described as a delightful experience. In contrast, the Cream Yellow switch lacks specific information about its qualities, making it difficult to directly compare with the Phalaenopsis switch. If you are looking for a tactile switch with specific sound characteristics and a stepped tactile feel, the Phalaenopsis switch may be the more suitable option based on the provided information.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force and are focused on a smooth typing experience without any particular standout feature, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value a beautiful translucent design that enhances typing comfort with a discernible tactile bump, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch would be more suitable for your needs. Additionally, if you enjoy a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a "bassy" and "thocky" experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and design aesthetics.
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