Outemu Crystal vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Cream Yellow offer distinct typing experiences. The Crystal is a linear switch that provides a unique feel with its elastic touch and medium-light weight, resulting in a smooth typing experience. Additionally, the Crystals produce a neutral sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow is a tactile switch that offers a different typing experience compared to the Crystal. Although not much information is provided about the Cream Yellow, tactile switches typically offer a noticeable bump during each keystroke, making them popular among typists who prefer more feedback. Both switches have their own strengths and weaknesses, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Cream Yellow, it is evident that they have different properties and effects on the sound profile of the switches. The Crystal's polycarbonate top and bottom housings create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the stiffness of the plastic, resulting in a more resonant sound profile. In contrast, the Cream Yellow's nylon top and bottom housings produce a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile. Therefore, the choice between the two housing materials will depend on the desired sound profile and feel of the switch.
While the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Cream Yellow differ in material, they both offer unique advantages for keyboard enthusiasts. The polycarbonate top housing of the Crystal is ideal for those who prefer a clear and crisp sound profile, especially when using RGB lighting, while the nylon top housing of the Cream Yellow provides a deeper and fuller sound for a different typing experience. Similarly, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Crystal enhances the overall sound profile of the switch, while the nylon bottom housing of the Cream Yellow contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel. These differences in housing materials cater to different preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, the choice between the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Cream Yellow housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. The polycarbonate housing of the Crystal offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the nylon housing of the Cream Yellow produces a deeper and fuller sound. Both materials have their own advantages and will impact the overall sound profile of the switch differently. Therefore, keyboard enthusiasts can choose between these housing materials based on their preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetic appeal.
Weight
The Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a light and responsive feel when typing. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Crystal requires 55 grams of force, while the Cream Yellow needs 60 grams, making the Cream Yellow slightly heavier in this aspect. The lighter actuation force of the Crystal may appeal to users who prefer a smoother typing experience for extended periods, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow's slightly heavier bottom out force may be favored by those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it is evident that the Cream Yellow has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Crystal's 4 mm. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Crystal is more traditional, while the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Cream Yellow is shallower. Gamers may prefer the Cream Yellow for its faster response times due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more robust keypress experience may opt for the Crystal with a longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, whereas the Outemu Cream Yellow comes in at $3.10.
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
The Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for its unique, medium-light weight feel that provides an elastic typing experience. This switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it a good choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch does not have any known subjective qualities in terms of feel or sound. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with a polished and smooth feel, the Crystal would be a good option. However, since the Cream Yellow lacks known qualities, it is difficult to directly compare the two switches in terms of feel and sound. Ultimately, when choosing between these two switches, it is important to consider your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile to determine which switch would best suit your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a unique, linear typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, then the Outemu Crystal could be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and a medium feel without any specific sound profile preference, then the Outemu Cream Yellow might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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