Outemu Cream Yellow vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch to the KTT Purple Star linear switch, there are distinct differences that cater to varying preferences. The Cream Yellow is known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump while typing. On the other hand, the Purple Star stands out for its smooth and quiet typing experience due to its all-POM construction and light 45g actuation force. While the Cream Yellow offers a tactile feel, the Purple Star is known for being easy to press and low-pitched in sound. Both switches have their unique qualities that make them appealing choices for different types of typists. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Cream Yellow and KTT Purple Star both feature top housings made of different materials, with the Cream Yellow utilizing nylon and the Purple Star incorporating POM. While both materials are known for creating a deeper sound profile, nylon is praised for its ability to absorb more sound due to its softer composition, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, POM produces a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and relatively more muted compared to nylon. The choice between these two materials may come down to personal preference in terms of the sound profile desired.
In terms of bottom housing, the Cream Yellow continues to utilize nylon while the Purple Star switches use POM. Similar to the top housing, both materials are known for creating a deeper sound profile, with nylon absorbing more sound due to its softer composition. On the other hand, POM produces a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and relatively more muted. This difference in bottom housing material may also influence the overall sound and feel of the switch when typing.
While the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Cream Yellow and KTT Purple Star switches differ in material composition, both materials ultimately contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The qualities brought by each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in material, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience with their unique sound profiles based on the chosen housing materials.
Weight
The Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Purple Star linear switch, which has an actuation force of 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Yellow requires 60 grams while the Purple Star only needs 50 grams. This makes the Cream Yellow switch feel a bit heavier overall, both in terms of actuation and bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Purple Star would be the better option. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more substantial push feel, the Cream Yellow would be the way to go. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm, which is shorter than the 3.5mm travel distance of the KTT Purple Star linear switch. The Cream Yellow will provide a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for a faster keystroke. On the other hand, the Purple Star offers a slightly deeper keystroke feel with its longer travel distance, catering to users who prefer a more substantial key press. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distances, allowing users to choose between a quicker, shallower keystroke with the Cream Yellow or a deeper, more deliberate keystroke with the Purple Star.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Cream Yellow comes in at $3.10, whereas the KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88.
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 tactile switch's sound profile is unknown, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound signature. This means that the Purple Star switch will likely produce a deeper and mellower tone compared to the Cream Yellow, providing a more soothing auditory experience during typing sessions. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switch's tactile feedback and overall typing experience are unspecified, whereas the KTT Purple Star switch is described as having a mild and easy-to-press feel. The Purple Star's all-POM construction and 45g bottom-out force contribute to a smooth and effortless typing experience, making it a comfortable choice for those who prefer lighter actuation forces and gentler key presses. With its approachable characteristics, the Purple Star switch offers a typing feel that is suitable for a wide range of users.
Overall, while the subjective qualities of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch differ in terms of sound and feel, both switches offer distinct advantages for keyboard enthusiasts. Depending on personal preference in terms of typing sound and feel, users can choose between the Cream Yellow for its tactile feedback or the Purple Star for its smooth linear action. Keep in mind that individual preferences may vary, so trying out both switches in person or through switch testers may be the best way to determine which one suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a medium bottom out force and a switch that is best known for its neutral sound signature, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a switch that is best known for its buttery smooth typing experience, the KTT Purple Star linear switch would be the better option. Additionally, if you enjoy low-pitched sound and a mild, easy-to-press typing feel, the Purple Star switch would provide a more comfortable typing experience for you. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches depends on your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and typing feel.
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