Outemu Cream Yellow vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, it is important to consider their unique characteristics. The Cream Yellow is categorized as a tactile switch, offering a satisfying bump feedback without the audible click. On the other hand, the KTT Pine is a linear switch known for its medium-heavy actuation force and buttery smooth key travel, providing an effortless typing experience. While the Cream Yellow is known for its tactile feedback, the Pine is praised for its smoothness and low-pitched sound profile. Both switches have their own strengths and reasons for choosing them, 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Yellow and the KTT Pine switches, we can see clear differences in sound profiles based on the nylon and polycarbonate materials used. The Cream Yellow, with its nylon top and bottom housing, offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Pine switch, with its polycarbonate top and bottom housing, produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. These differences in housing materials greatly impact the overall typing experience and sound of each switch.
Despite their differences, both the Outemu Cream Yellow and KTT Pine switches utilize a combination of nylon and polycarbonate materials in their housing to achieve the desired sound profiles. While the Cream Yellow leans towards a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon housing, the Pine switch opts for a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate housing. These differences in sound profiles cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, providing options for those who prefer a softer, rounder sound versus a clearer, more resonant sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in sound and typing experience.
When considering the impact of housing materials on typing sound and feel, the Outemu Cream Yellow and KTT Pine switches highlight the importance of top and bottom housing materials in shaping the overall sound profile. The bottom housing material, whether nylon or polycarbonate, plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material has a more significant impact on the sound when a key is released. Understanding these distinctions can help mechanical keyboard enthusiasts make informed decisions when selecting switches based on the desired sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, both switches have a similar actuation force of 45 grams, making them ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. However, the Cream Yellow has a slightly higher bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Pine's 58 grams, providing a slightly firmer typing experience when fully pressing the keys. For those who value a more substantial typing feel, the Cream Yellow may be the preferred choice due to its slightly higher bottom out force. Conversely, the Pine offers a more consistent force throughout the keypress, making it a good option for users who desire a smoother typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium actuation and bottom out force, providing a balance between comfort and feedback for users.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the KTT Pine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cream Yellow has the shorter travel distance compared to the Pine. With a shorter travel distance, the Cream Yellow may provide a faster response time, making it ideal for gamers looking for quick key presses. On the other hand, the Pine's longer travel distance may offer a more substantial feel when typing, which could be preferred by those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preference, but if you are looking for a shorter travel distance, the Cream Yellow is the way to go.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine 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 Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch doesn't have a specified sound profile, making it a bit of a wildcard in terms of auditory feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched sound characteristics. This means that the Pine switch will provide a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, which may be more appealing to those who enjoy a lower frequency range in their typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch also doesn't have a specified tactile feel, leaving room for interpretation and personal preference. Conversely, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as buttery and creamy, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. With a factory-lubed finish to minimize friction, the Pine switch provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation, allowing for a silky smooth experience with each key press.
Overall, if you prefer a switch with a mysterious sound profile and an undefined tactile feel, the Outemu Cream Yellow may be the way to go. However, if you enjoy a switch with a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, as well as a buttery and creamy typing sensation, the KTT Pine linear switch would be a great choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what specific qualities you value in your mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a switch that is best known for its smooth key travel and effortless typing experience, the KTT Pine linear switch might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a similar bottom out force but prioritize sound quality and a specific typing feel, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch could be the more suitable option. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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