KTT Cream Yellow vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the KTT Rose 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 KTT Rose. Both switches offer distinct features and characteristics that suit different typing preferences. The Cream Yellow switch is known for its distinctive clacky sound and bouncy typing feel. Its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem contribute to a resonant audio feedback, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Rose switch stands out with its beautiful aesthetic design. The use of progressive springs in this switch provides a substantial yet not heavy typing experience, evoking the sound of bassy raindrops. With its low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished characteristics, the Rose switch offers a unique and refined typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The KTT Cream Yellow and KTT Rose both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This choice creates a similar sound profile in both switches, characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate allows for a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal option for those who prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly beneficial for users who plan to incorporate RGB lighting into their setup.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Cream Yellow and Rose employ nylon as the material. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, contributing to a duller and rounder sound. This characteristic makes these switches suitable for users who prefer a quieter typing experience.
While the top and bottom housings differ in materials between the Cream Yellow and Rose switches, the impact of each housing on the overall sound profile is split. When pressing down on these switches, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing become apparent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing's impact is more noticeable upon releasing a key. Despite these variations, both switches ultimately provide similar results in terms of sound quality, with some variations in the depth and pitch of the sound produced.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the actuation force of the Rose switch is unknown. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Cream Yellow requiring 58 grams and the Rose weighing in at 63.5 grams.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch like the Cream Yellow, as it allows for longer periods of typing without causing fatigue. This lighter weight can be advantageous for those who bring their keyboard to work or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for a switch with a heavier actuation force. Unfortunately, the exact actuation force of the Rose switch is not available, so achieving similar results to the Cream Yellow in terms of actuation force is uncertain.
However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Rose switch is slightly heavier than the Cream Yellow. With a weight of 63.5 grams, the Rose switch provides a more solid and pronounced typing feel when fully pressed. This can be appealing to individuals who prefer switches with heavier forces for a more substantial typing experience.
Overall, while the actuation force remains unknown for the Rose switch, it can be observed that the KTT Cream Yellow is lighter in weight compared to the Rose, making it more suitable for prolonged usage. On the other hand, the Rose switch offers a heavier bottom out force, providing a more solid and substantial typing experience for those who prefer it.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, we can see that the Cream Yellow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Rose has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Cream Yellow being slightly shallower and the Rose being more in line with the standard 4.0 mm.
If you are a gamer looking for faster response times, the Cream Yellow may be the better choice for you due to its shorter travel distance. This can allow for quicker key presses and potentially give you an advantage in competitive gaming scenarios. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel and a deeper key press, the Rose with its longer travel distance may be more suitable. Some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, so if you prefer a switch with more depth and a more satisfying keypress, the Rose would be the recommended option.
In conclusion, the Cream Yellow and Rose linear switches offer differing travel distances, with the Cream Yellow being the shorter option at 3.5 mm and the Rose being the longer option at 4 mm. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired experience you seek from your keyboard.
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 KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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
In terms of sound, the Cream Yellow switch is best known for its distinctively clacky sound. When pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Rose switch offers a low-pitched sound profile. These switches have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. In addition, the Rose switch is described as neutral, meaning it has a moderate sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. It's important to note that the actual sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Cream Yellow switch is known for its bouncy typing experience. With a shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem, these switches provide a uniquely responsive and elastic feedback sensation. They have a lively feel, giving you a rebound when pressed. In contrast, the Rose switch offers a mild typing experience. It provides a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, the Rose switch is polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This is due to either the materials used or factory lubing. With the Rose switch, you can expect reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Cream Yellow and Rose switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Yellow switch delivers a clacky sound with a uniquely bouncy typing feel, while the Rose switch provides a low-pitched sound with a mild and polished typing experience. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on the desired experience. It's worth noting that the actual sound and feel will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. If you are aiming for a clacky sound and bouncy feel, the Cream Yellow switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a low-pitched sound and a more gentle typing experience, the Rose switch would be a great option. Regardless of the choice, you can expect a high-quality switch that meets your specific preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values a distinctively clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, then the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, it offers a medium actuation force. The Cream Yellow switch is designed to provide resonant audio feedback and a uniquely bouncy typing experience, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem. Furthermore, its lengthened spring adds to the bounciness. Keep in mind that the Cream Yellow switch produces a clacky sound that can be described as sharp, snappy, crisp, bright, and percussive.
On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched and mellow sound with a mild and polished typing experience, then the KTT Rose linear switch would be the better fit for you. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it falls into the medium-heavy category in terms of actuation force. The Rose switch utilizes progressive springs to offer a uniquely substantial typing experience without being heavy. It has a bass-heavy and mellow tone that resembles the sound of bassy raindrops. Additionally, the Rose switch provides a mild and polished typing experience with a safe, middle-ground feel suitable for most users. Its smooth and refined finish ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Cream Yellow and KTT Rose switches depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel. If you prioritize a clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, go for the Cream Yellow switch. However, if you prefer a low-pitched sound, a mild typing experience, and a polished feel, opt for the Rose switch. Both switches offer their own unique qualities, allowing you to find the one that suits your typing style and preferences. In the end, it's all about finding the right balance between sound, feel, and user experience.
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