Gateron CM vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch to the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, one can immediately notice the difference in their construction and sound profile. The CM sets itself apart with a full nylon housing, offering a richer and deeper sound signature compared to traditional polycarbonate housings. This, combined with an impeccable factory lube job, provides a smooth typing journey that feels like gliding with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue switch lacks a specific standout feature but is known for its clicky feedback and tactile response. While the CM switch is buttery, bassy, and low-pitched, the Cream Blue switch may offer a more tactile and audible experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Outemu Cream Blue switches are both made of nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both switches benefit from these properties, providing a unique typing experience with a satisfying sound feedback.
While both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housing materials, the distribution of these materials may vary between the two. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as impact on bottom-out sound and feel, are more prominent in the Gateron CM, while the top housing has a stronger influence on the sound when releasing a key. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Blue may have a more balanced distribution of these qualities between the top and bottom housing, resulting in a more consistent typing experience overall.
Overall, the Gateron CM and the Outemu Cream Blue switches offer similar typing experiences due to their shared use of nylon housing materials. Both switches deliver a deep and full sound profile with a softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively, creating a unique typing experience for enthusiasts. While there may be slight differences in the distribution of these housing materials within each switch, users can expect comparable results in terms of sound feedback and overall typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron CM linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch both fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The CM has a slightly lighter actuation force at 55 grams compared to the Cream Blue's 50 grams, making it a bit easier to trigger keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Cream Blue requires a heavier force of 65 grams compared to the CM's 63.5 grams. This means that while the CM may feel slightly lighter to the touch during normal typing, the Cream Blue provides a more substantial typing experience due to the heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer a similar typing experience overall, with the main difference lying in the slight variation in actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the CM, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the Cream Blue.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the CM linear switch may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the Cream Blue switch with its longer travel distance might be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Cream Blue switch being slightly longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for key feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 CM linear switch stands out for its bassy and thocky profile, offering a deep and rich sound with each key press. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch does not have any notable sound descriptors provided, making it challenging to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. However, 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 chosen.
When it comes to the typing experience, the Gateron CM switch is described as buttery, polished, and creamy, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation. This switch is designed to provide a frictionless typing experience, allowing for fluid key travel with minimal resistance. On the other hand, there is no specific information available on the typing feel of the Outemu Cream Blue switch, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison in this regard.
Overall, while the Gateron CM linear switch showcases a richer and deeper sound profile along with a smooth and buttery typing experience, the information available for the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is limited. As a result, it is essential to consider the specific preferences and requirements of the user when choosing between these two switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience. If the user enjoys a bassy sound and a polished, frictionless feel, the Gateron CM linear switch would likely be the preferred choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a smoother typing experience with a rich sound profile and enjoy a bouncy feel with medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron CM linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and prioritize a satisfying audible feedback during key presses, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch could be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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