Outemu Cream Yellow vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Yellow and the TTC Yunhai present two distinct experiences tailored for different typing preferences. The Outemu Cream Yellow, a tactile switch, is designed to provide users with discernible feedback that enhances typing accuracy, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a more interactive feel with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai, known for its linear characteristics, excels in offering a smooth and silent typing experience, characterized by a light actuation force that requires minimal effort, making it ideal for typists who prefer a fluid and effortless feel while typing. While both switches cater to different styles—one emphasizing tactile feedback and the other prioritizing a seamless keystroke—each offers unique advantages depending on your personal preferences. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Cream Yellow and the TTC Yunhai switches share a common material for both their top and bottom housings: nylon. This classic switch housing material is renowned for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches leverage the acoustic properties of nylon, which is softer compared to harder plastics. This softness enables nylon to absorb sound more effectively, leading to a sound signature that is characterized by a duller and rounder quality. As a result, typists using either switch can expect a similar auditory experience, with the nylon construction contributing to an overall muted sound when keys are pressed and released.
In terms of construction, the similarity of the housing material across the Cream Yellow and the Yunhai means that the characteristics associated with nylon will manifest consistently in both switches. Since both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, users can anticipate a comparable tactile response and sound profile. This aspect is crucial for keyboard enthusiasts who prioritize a cohesive typing experience, especially when considering the ergonomic and auditory implications. The softer nature of nylon contributes to the overall sensation of the switches, creating a typing experience that many find pleasing and comfortable.
While both switches exhibit the same material qualities, the interaction between the top and bottom housings still plays a significant role in defining their performance. With both switches constructed entirely from nylon, the full impact of this material is experienced on both the bottom-out and release sounds. Users will find that the unified use of nylon allows for a seamless progression between the sensations felt when pressing down on the key and releasing it, ensuring that switching between the two will yield similarly satisfying results. In both cases, the nylon housings contribute effectively to a holistic typing experience, enhancing sound absorption and promoting a rich auditory quality.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, the actuation and bottom out forces reveal distinct characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, positioning it as a medium-weight switch ideal for users who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Yunhai features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a softer touch, especially during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Consequently, the Cream Yellow requires a bit more force, which some may find more satisfying, while the Yunhai's lighter response offers less physical strain over time. Overall, if you're looking for a switch that balances a firm press with moderate resistance, the Cream Yellow is a better option, whereas the Yunhai serves well for those desiring a smoother, lighter feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, we see a notable difference. The Cream Yellow features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Yunhai has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Outemu Cream Yellow the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times and a more immediate feel. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai's longer travel distance could be favored by those who appreciate a deeper, more deliberate typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference, as the Cream Yellow offers a snappier action while the Yunhai caters to those who prefer a more substantial keypress.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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
The sound profile of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch remains unspecified, which leaves room for interpretation based on personal preference and the accompanying setup like the keyboard case and keycap material. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai linear switch is characterized by its deep, rounded sound profile. This quality contributes to a more pronounced auditory feedback, making it more suitable for typists who enjoy a rich sound when typing. However, keep in mind that the overall sound experience will be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, so both switches may achieve satisfactory or preferred sound levels depending on the user's configuration.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Cream Yellow's characteristics are not outlined, making it difficult to provide a concrete comparison. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switch is noted for its incredibly light actuation force, which allows for a gentle and effortless typing experience. This makes the Yunhai particularly appealing to individuals who favor a smooth and unencumbered typing action, potentially enhancing speed and comfort during long typing sessions. Without specific details about the Cream Yellow, it’s challenging to assess how its tactile feedback compares to the distinctly light and smooth feel of the Yunhai.
In summary, while the Outemu Cream Yellow lacks defined qualities in both sound and feel, the TTC Yunhai linear switch stands out with its deep sound profile and light actuation force, offering a unique typing experience suited to relaxed typing styles. If you're drawn to a rich auditory experience and effortless keystrokes, the Yunhai would be a favorable choice. Conversely, the unspecified qualities of the Cream Yellow suggest that exploring it may yield unique results, but clear comparisons remain elusive.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you lean towards a more tactile experience with a solid and well-defined feel, the Cream Yellow could be the better option for you, particularly if you enjoy medium bottom-out force, which may provide a satisfying typing feedback for gaming or programming tasks. This switch might be preferable if you want a more pronounced tactile bump to enhance your overall typing precision. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth, effortless typing experience, the TTC Yunhai linear switch would be ideal due to its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams, which makes it conducive for fast-paced typing or long writing sessions without fatigue. Moreover, the deep and rounded sound profile of the Yunhai switches creates an appealing acoustic environment, making them a great choice for those who appreciate a quieter yet immersive typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal preferences in feel and sound, as well as the specific tasks you perform on your keyboard.