Outemu Cream Yellow vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Cream Yellow and the TTC Speed Silver present two distinct options tailored to different preferences and typing styles. The Cream Yellow switch is renowned for its tactile feedback, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a pronounced bump during key presses, which can enhance the typing experience and provide satisfying confirmation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch is designed for users who prioritize speed and precision in their typing. With its lightweight resistance and reduced travel distance, Speed Silvers allow for quick actuation, making them particularly appealing for gamers and fast typists who need to execute commands swiftly and accurately. Although both switches offer unique advantages—whether it be the tactile sensation of the Cream Yellow or the rapid responsiveness of the Speed Silver—they cater to different needs and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Cream Yellow switches and TTC Speed Silver switches utilize different materials for their top housings, leading to distinct sound profiles during typing. The Cream Yellow features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer and more absorbent nature. This allows the switch to dampen high frequencies, resulting in a sound that is rounder and less harsh. In contrast, the Speed Silver incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and contributes to a sharper, more resonant sound. The clarity achieved with polycarbonate enhances higher frequencies, making the typing experience crisper and more articulate. These variations manifest the unique auditory characteristics that will appeal to users with different preferences for typing sounds.
Interestingly, both switches feature nylon for their bottom housing, creating a shared element that affects the overall sound and feel during use. The nylon material in the Cream Yellow's bottom housing, like its counterpart in the Speed Silver, provides a consistent and fuller sound profile. This means that while the top housing distinguishes the two switches in terms of sound sharpness and tonal quality, the bottom housing ensures a similar deepness in sound when the switch bottoms out. As a result, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience despite their differing top housing materials, as the qualities of the nylon bottom housing will help to anchor the sound and feel.
In essence, while the Outemu Cream Yellow and TTC Speed Silver switches contrast notably in their top housing materials—nylon versus polycarbonate—they share similarities in terms of their bottom housing composition. This combination facilitates a blend of auditory characteristics whereby users can expect to achieve a rounded, mellow base sound that underlines the typing experience regardless of the sharper nuances introduced by their respective top housings. Thus, individuals may find that they can enjoy a consistent, satisfying feel while experiencing the unique sound profiles that each switch offers, showcasing how material choice directly influences the nuanced dynamics of keyboard performance.
Weight
The Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch have similar actuation forces, both measured at 45 grams, which indicates that they will require the same amount of pressure to register a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Yellow has a slightly heavier force at 60 grams compared to the Speed Silver's 55 grams. This means that while both switches provide a comparable typing experience in terms of actuation, the Cream Yellow will offer a more substantial feel when bottoming out. Consequently, typists who prefer a heavier feel may gravitate towards the Outemu Cream Yellow, while those who favor a lighter touch and a quicker response might prefer the TTC Speed Silver. Overall, if you're looking for a comfortable typing experience for long sessions, the Speed Silver’s lighter bottom out force may suit you better, but if you appreciate a more robust tactile response, the Cream Yellow could be the ideal choice.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that if you're looking for a more responsive feel, the Cream Yellow switch, with its shorter travel distance, may be the better option as it allows quicker actuation. This can be especially advantageous for gamers seeking fast response times. In contrast, the Speed Silver's 3.4 mm travel distance offers a marginally deeper actuation, which some users might prefer for a more substantial keypress feel. Therefore, while the difference in travel distance is minimal, the Cream Yellow is the shorter switch, appealing to those who enjoy a quicker response, whereas the Speed Silver caters to those who appreciate a bit more depth in their key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 considering the sound profile of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it is difficult to provide a specific description, as it lacks a notable characteristic in this arena. In stark contrast, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch delivers a neutral sound, thanks to its moderate actuation force and well-balanced acoustic profile. This neutrality makes the Speed Silver switch versatile for various environments, whether you’re typing at home, in an office, or during gaming sessions. It strikes a pleasing balance that should satisfy both beginners and advanced users, reflecting its adaptability.
On the tactile feel, the Outemu Cream Yellow does not have explicitly defined characteristics available. However, the TTC Speed Silver is noted for its mild feel, making it approachable for most users. The mild resistance offers a gentle typing experience that is less taxing on the fingers, while the polished nature of the switch contributes to a smooth and refined typing journey. This slick finish not only enhances the overall experience by reducing friction but also means that users can expect consistent actuation without any harshness or bumps typically associated with more aggressive switches.
In summary, while the Outemu Cream Yellow remains undefined in its sound and feel qualities, the TTC Speed Silver switch presents a clear advantage with a neutral and adaptable sound profile alongside a mild and polished tactile experience. If you are looking for a switch that excels in precision and reduced travel distance, the Speed Silver is likely the preferred choice. For an approach toward the Cream Yellow, one can expect that although both might not deliver standout features, similar experiences could be gleaned from their use, particularly if they are paired with the right keyboard and keycap combinations.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing style and preferences. If you prioritize a tactile feedback in a key with a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the Cream Yellow might be more suited for you. However, it's worth noting that while it lacks specific standout features, it can still provide a solid typing experience for general use. On the other hand, if you're looking for speed and precision in your typing, the TTC Speed Silver is an excellent choice. With a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams and a reduced travel distance, it enables quick and effortless actuation, making it ideal for fast typists or gamers who thrive on that rapid response. The mild and polished feel of the Speed Silver, coupled with its neutral sound profile, also makes it versatile enough for both home and office settings. Ultimately, consider your primary usage—whether it be for gaming or typing—and select the switch that aligns best with your goals for a comfortable and efficient keyboard experience.