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KTT Cream Yellow vs. Outemu Dustproof Red

An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Dustproof Red, both of which are linear switches. The Cream Yellow is known for its distinctively clacky sound, bouncy typing feel, and resonant audio feedback due to its shortened bottom-out distance, long-pole stem, and lengthened spring. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red does not have any specific standout features but is known for its reliability and durability thanks to its dustproof design. If you're looking for a switch that offers a unique typing experience with a satisfying sound, the Cream Yellow may be the way to go. 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

50g

Actuation force

45g

Bottom-out force

58g

Bottom-out force

60g

Pre-travel

1.90 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

3.50 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Factory lubed

Yes

Factory lubed

Yes

Stem construction

Standard

Stem construction

Partial box

Stem material

POM

Stem material

pom

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Mount type

Plate (3-pin)

Mount type

Plate (3-pin)

Spring

18mm spring

Spring

Stainless steel

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Outemu Dustproof Red, it is evident that they both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. This means that both switches will likely provide similar sound profiles and aesthetics when it comes to their top housings.

On the other hand, when it comes to their bottom housings, the Cream Yellow utilizes nylon while the Dustproof Red also opts for nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. It absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches will likely offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel due to their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing.

In instances where the top and bottom housings differ, as is the case with the Cream Yellow and Dustproof Red, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing the key. This differentiation in housing materials can result in a unique typing experience for each switch, even if they share similarities in terms of the materials used.

Weight

In comparing the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, we can see that the Cream Yellow has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dustproof Red's 45 grams. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Cream Yellow requiring 58 grams and the Dustproof Red needing 60 grams. The Cream Yellow provides a slightly lighter actuation force, which may be preferred by those who type for extended periods of time or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, so users can expect similar results in terms of performance and feel when using either switch.

Travel distance

The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Cream Yellow switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Dustproof Red switch may provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience. Both switches offer different travel distances that cater to different preferences, so you can achieve similar results with either option depending on your typing style.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.

The Outemu Dustproof Red 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

Overall, the Cream Yellow linear switch is known for its clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, making it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts who prefer a more pronounced auditory and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch lacks specific information about its sound and feel qualities. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with a clacky sound and bouncy feel similar to the Cream Yellow, it may be safer to go with the Cream Yellow switch to ensure you get the desired results. Remember that personal preferences play a significant role in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Conclusion

In closing, when choosing between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a keyboard switch. If you value a distinctively clacky sound and a bouncy typing feel, then the Cream Yellow may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a dustproof design and a slightly higher bottom out force, the Dustproof Red could be more suitable for your needs. Consider what qualities are most important to you in a keyboard switch and make your decision based on that. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.

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