Gateron Aliaz vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Cream Blue offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Aliaz switch is ideal for quiet environments such as offices, offering a silent design that won't disturb those around you. With a medium-heavy weight and a substantial feel to each keystroke, it provides a satisfying typing feedback without the noise commonly associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch is a clicky switch that delivers a loud click with each press, providing a more tactile and audible typing experience. While the Aliaz switch may be preferred for its quiet operation, the Cream Blue switch appeals to those who enjoy the classic clicky sound. 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
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Cream Blue, one can see distinct differences in the sound profiles they produce. The Aliaz's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while the Cream Blue's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound by absorbing more sound with its softer material. The Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing yields a similar effect to its top housing, while the Cream Blue's nylon bottom housing contributes to a rounder sound profile. These differences in material highlight how the housing of a switch can significantly impact the overall sound experience.
While both the Aliaz and Cream Blue switches have different housing materials for their top and bottom components, the qualities of each material are still present in the overall sound profile of the switches. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a combination of sharpness and depth in sound, depending on which part of the switch is being engaged. The impact of the bottom housing can be felt when bottoming out a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities adds a unique element to the typing experience with these switches.
Overall, the choice between the polycarbonate housing of the Gateron Aliaz and the nylon housing of the Outemu Cream Blue comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The Aliaz offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, while the Cream Blue provides a deeper and fuller sound. Both materials have their own advantages, with polycarbonate offering clarity and resonance, and nylon absorbing sound for a duller effect. Whether one prefers a crisper sound or a rounder tone, both switches deliver unique typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, which has a lower actuation force of 50 grams. The Aliaz also has a higher bottom out force of 75 grams, whereas the Cream Blue has a bottom out force of 65 grams. This makes the Aliaz switch heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Cream Blue switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cream Blue switch, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. Conversely, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Aliaz switch due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the keys travel from the top to the bottom. The user will get similar results in terms of key feel and actuation point for both switches. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile feedback and audible click with each key press. This makes them suitable options for those who prefer a tactile and clicky typing experience. Overall, the travel distance of 4 mm for both the Gateron Aliaz and Outemu Cream Blue switches ensures a comfortable and familiar typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Outemu Cream Blue 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for its muted sound, creating a softer and quieter typing experience compared to other mechanical switches. This makes it a great choice for those who work in quiet environments like offices. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch's sound characteristics are unknown, so it's difficult to compare directly. However, it's worth noting that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is praised for its silky and polished tactile feedback, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. These switches offer minimal resistance and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel. In contrast, information regarding the feel of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is not available, making it challenging to compare the tactile experience directly.
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is a great choice for those looking for a quiet and substantial typing experience with a smooth and refined feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch's qualities are unknown, so it's hard to make a direct comparison. However, if you enjoy the characteristics of the Aliaz switch, you may find similar results in terms of sound and feel with the Cream Blue switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and tactile feedback in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, consider your environment and typing preferences. If you work in a quiet setting like an office and prefer a substantial, medium-heavy keystroke with a muted sound, the Aliaz switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a medium-heavy feel and are not concerned about noise, the Cream Blue switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing habits and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard.
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