Outemu Cream Yellow vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Yellow and the KTT Strawberry offer unique features and characteristics to consider. The Cream Yellow is a tactile switch, known for its None categorization. On the other hand, the Strawberry is a linear switch loved for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, categorized as low-pitched, frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. Each switch has its own advantages - the Cream Yellow may appeal to those looking for a tactile typing experience, while the Strawberry could be a great option for users seeking a smooth and consistent key press. 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
62g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Yellow and the KTT Strawberry, the key difference lies in the material used for their housings. The Cream Yellow features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile as a result of its relatively stiffer plastic composition. These differences in housing materials contribute to distinct sound profiles for each switch, appealing to different preferences based on sound preference.
Despite the differences in materials, both the Outemu Cream Yellow and the KTT Strawberry excel in providing unique auditory experiences due to their housing materials. The Cream Yellow's nylon housing offers a duller and rounder sound, ideal for those seeking a softer typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry's polycarbonate housing delivers a more resonant and clear sound, appealing to users who prefer a sharper and higher-pitched typing sound. While the two switches may have varying sound profiles, they both showcase the impact that housing materials can have on the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Cream Yellow and the KTT Strawberry ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. If you prefer a deeper and fuller sound, the Cream Yellow with its nylon housing may be the ideal choice. Conversely, if you lean towards a sharper and crisper sound, the KTT Strawberry's polycarbonate housing would suit your preferences better. Both switches offer unique typing experiences due to their housing materials, demonstrating the importance of considering housing materials when selecting a switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it is evident that both switches have similar actuation forces, with the Cream Yellow requiring 45 grams and the Strawberry 43 grams. However, the bottom out force differs slightly, with the Cream Yellow needing 60 grams and the Strawberry 62 grams. Both switches fall into the medium weight category, providing a balanced typing experience. Some may prefer the slightly lighter actuation force of the Strawberry for longer typing sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the Cream Yellow for a more substantial feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Cream Yellow the shorter option of the two. The Cream Yellow falls within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch offers a longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches have their own advantages depending on individual preferences, with the Cream Yellow being better for quicker responses and the Strawberry providing a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to whether you prefer a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91.
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 sound profile widely known, while the KTT Strawberry switch is praised for its low-pitched tone. Low-pitched switches like the Strawberry typically produce a deeper and more soothing sound compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cream Yellow switch lacks a widely recognized specific tactile feel, while the KTT Strawberry switch offers a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. These qualities indicate that the Strawberry switch provides an exceptionally smooth and effortless keystroke, with minimal resistance or friction during key presses. This results in a fluid and refined typing feel, enhancing the overall typing experience for users.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a switch with a specific sound profile and tactile feel, the KTT Strawberry switch seems to be a more well-defined option compared to the Outemu Cream Yellow switch. However, keep in mind that individual preferences vary, and what works for one person may not work for another. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so it's recommended to try them out personally to determine which one suits your preferences best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it ultimately boils down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a smooth actuation and comfortable feel, the Cream Yellow might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a low-pitched sound, a frictionless, silky, buttery, or polished feel, and are drawn to the attractive pink and clear housings of the Strawberry switch, then that switch may be the ideal option for your mechanical keyboard setup. Consider your typing preferences and what features are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
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