KTT Strawberry vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Strawberry and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that cater to different preferences are the KTT Strawberry and the Outemu Yellow Silver. The KTT Strawberry, a linear switch, is widely recognized for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. Its attractive pink and clear housings make it an aesthetically pleasing choice. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver is also a linear switch, preferred by both gamers and typists due to its light actuation force and neutral sound profile. This switch is particularly suitable for those who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. However, superficial categorizations only scratch the surface of these switches' capabilities. Let's delve deeper into the specifics to help you make an informed decision about the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Strawberry and the Outemu Yellow Silver both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound, making it ideal for those who appreciate a distinct and precise typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, which adds a visually appealing aspect to the switches.
While the top housings of both the Strawberry and the Yellow Silver share the same material, their bottom housings differ. The Strawberry features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, making typing on the Yellow Silver result in a slightly different auditory experience compared to the Strawberry. The nylon material absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound, which may be preferable for those seeking a quieter typing experience.
It is worth noting that the qualities brought by each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switches. When pressing down on either the KTT Strawberry or the Outemu Yellow Silver, the impact and resulting sound will mostly be influenced by the bottom housing. Conversely, when releasing a key, the sound will be more heavily influenced by the top housing. Therefore, while the top and bottom housings of these switches differ, the overall typing experience and sound profiles of the Strawberry and the Yellow Silver can still yield similar results due to the shared polycarbonate top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Strawberry linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Strawberry switch is 43 grams, while the Yellow Silver switch has an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range of actuation force, meaning they require a moderate amount of force to trigger a keystroke.
In terms of bottom out force, the Strawberry switch has a slightly heavier force of 62 grams, compared to the Yellow Silver switch's 55 grams. This indicates that the Strawberry switch provides a more substantial typing experience, requiring a stronger push to fully press the key down. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch has a lighter bottom out force, which may be preferable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience or need to type for longer periods without fatigue.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Yellow Silver switch, as it enables them to type for extended periods comfortably. This would be ideal for those who bring their keyboards to work or engage in long gaming sessions. However, for those who prioritize a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Strawberry switch would be suitable.
Overall, while the actuation and bottom out forces of the two switches differ slightly, both provide similar results in terms of being in the medium range of actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience, whether it be a lighter and more prolonged typing session or a heavier and more substantial feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Strawberry linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. When pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience the same distance of travel. This means that both switches offer a consistent tactile feedback and responsiveness. Whether it is the KTT Strawberry or the Outemu Yellow Silver, users can expect a smooth and seamless typing experience with a travel distance of 4 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91, whereas the Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is known for its low-pitched tone. Low-pitched switches generally have a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. It falls in the middle in terms of pitch and offers a moderate sound experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, based on the available information, the Strawberry switch would provide a lower-pitched sound while the Yellow Silver switch would offer a more neutral and moderate sound.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is described as having various qualities such as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. These descriptors indicate that the Strawberry switch offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. It provides a fluid and seamless keystroke sensation. On the other hand, information regarding the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is not provided. Therefore, it is unknown how it would compare in terms of feel. One can assume that it may offer a smoother typing experience than average due to its focus on speediness and responsiveness, but without more specific information, it is difficult to draw a definitive conclusion.
In conclusion, based on the available information, comparing the subjective qualities of the KTT Strawberry linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch reveals some differences. The Strawberry switch is known for its low-pitched sound and offers a smooth and effortless typing experience with various descriptors such as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch has a neutral sound profile and provides a light actuation force, but information regarding its feel is unknown. If one is looking for a switch with a lower-pitched sound and a smooth typing experience, the Strawberry switch would be a suitable choice. If the specific feel is not a priority, the Yellow Silver switch may provide similar results in terms of sound profile but with a focus on speediness and responsiveness. Remember, the overall experience may also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a smooth and comfortable typing experience, the KTT Strawberry linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel, it offers an effortless and uniform typing sensation. The Strawberry switch is also known for its low-pitched sound profile, which adds to the overall pleasant typing experience.
On the other hand, if you value a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch may be more suitable for your needs. This switch offers a medium-light bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, making it favorable for both gamers and typists who prefer speediness and responsiveness. While the Yellow Silver switch does not have a specific feel descriptor provided, it can be assumed that it offers a relatively smooth key travel, although not to the same extent as the Strawberry switch.
Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Strawberry and the Outemu Yellow Silver will depend on your personal preferences and priorities. If a smooth and comfortable typing experience is your main concern, the Strawberry switch would be the better choice. However, if you prioritize a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Yellow Silver switch may be more suitable.
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