Bsun Pine vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Pine and Outemu Cream Blue stand out as excellent choices, each offering a unique typing experience. The BSUN Pine switch is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactile bump and long pole stem, providing a distinct and quick bottom-out that appeals to those who prefer a direct and no-nonsense tactility. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue switch is a clicky switch with characteristics that are yet to be described. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, whether you value a strong tactile feedback or a satisfying 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the Outemu Cream Blue switches exhibit distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience. The Pine's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharp, high-pitched sound profile with clear and resonant tones, thanks to the stiff nature of polycarbonate plastic. In contrast, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon plastic, absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder tone. Both materials offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with polycarbonate providing a crisper sound and nylon offering a more muted sound.
While the Pine and Cream Blue switches share nylon bottom housing materials, the impact of these materials varies depending on the housing placement. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound for a rounder tone. This quality is particularly noticeable during bottom-out sounds and feels when typing on the switches. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether polycarbonate for the Pine or nylon for the Cream Blue, plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a balanced typing experience with distinct sound characteristics for each phase of typing.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the Outemu Cream Blue switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile feedback based on the properties of polycarbonate and nylon plastics. The Pine's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound, ideal for users preferring a clearer and resonant typing experience. In comparison, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing yields a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to those seeking a more rounded and muted typing sound. Despite the shared nylon bottom housing, the split between top and bottom housing materials in each switch allows for a combination of sound qualities that enhance the overall typing experience for users with varying preferences.
Weight
The Bsun Pine tactile switch and Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch both fall into the medium-heavy category when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The Pine has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Cream Blue's 50 grams, but they both require the same 65 grams of force to bottom out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Pine may be more suitable, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the Cream Blue offers a slightly more substantial typing experience with a bit more force needed to actuate the switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter compared to the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch offers a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a deeper key press feel. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Bsun Pine tactile switch. Both switches provide different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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 Pine switch is known for producing a moderate level of noise with a sharp and distinct click, making it suitable for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch is renowned for its crisp and audible click sound that is reminiscent of classic clicky switches, providing a satisfying typing experience. It is important to note that the sound produced by both switches can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the Pine switch offers a tactile experience that is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy. These qualities result in a switch that provides a noticeable tactile bump without being overpowering, ensuring a responsive and engaging typing feel. Conversely, the feel of the Cream Blue switch is not explicitly defined in the provided information, so it may be assumed to offer a traditional clicky switch feel with a satisfying and tactile feedback.
Overall, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is favored for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, along with a distinct feedback that appeals to users who prefer a direct and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is likely to offer a classic clicky switch feel with a crisp sound and tactile feedback. While both switches may have their unique qualities, they are expected to deliver a comparable level of satisfaction for users seeking either a tactile or clicky typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, you should consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump, fast action, and direct tactility, the BSUN Pine switch is the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a distinct sound and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Cream Blue switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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