TTC Honey vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Honey linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch are two popular options to explore. The TTC Honey is renowned for its smooth and creamy feel, offering a frictionless typing experience with a deep and pleasant sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue switch does not have a specific standout feature but is known for its clicky feedback. The Honey switch is often described as subdued, creamy, and polished, while the Cream Blue switch lacks any notable characteristics. When choosing between these two switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and 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
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Outemu Cream Blue, it is clear that they both offer distinct sound profiles based on their differing materials. The Honey's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Cream Blue's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users, catering to different preferences for keyboard sound.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing continues to offer a sharper and crisper sound, whereas the Cream Blue's nylon bottom housing provides a softer and rounder sound. The differences in sound profiles between the bottom housings of these switches further highlight the unique qualities that each material brings to the table. Whether one prefers a more resonant and clear sound or a duller and rounder sound, these housing materials cater to a variety of sound preferences.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the top and bottom of switches can result in a combination of sound qualities that offer a well-rounded typing experience. While the Honey and Cream Blue switches may have different top and bottom housing materials, the impact of these materials on the sound profile can be felt throughout the typing process. Whether it's the bottom-out sound and feel influenced by the bottom housing or the sound when releasing a key influenced by the top housing, each material contributes to the overall sound experience of the switch.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Honey linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Honey has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Cream Blue's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Blue is heavier at 65 grams compared to the Honey's 50 grams. The Honey switch provides a lighter touch for those who prefer typing for extended periods, while the Cream Blue switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to users who prefer either a lighter or heavier feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired level of force required for typing.
Travel distance
The TTC Honey linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cream Blue has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Honey. The traditional travel distance is 4.0 mm, so both switches fall within the acceptable range. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the shorter 3.8 mm travel distance of the Honey switch. On the other hand, those who appreciate a deeper keystroke feel may prefer the 4 mm travel distance of the Cream Blue switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance in keyboard switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 TTC Honey linear switch is known for its subdued and pleasant sound profile, offering a dampened yet subtle sound when compared to most switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, TTC Honey linear switches are recognized for their creamy and frictionless typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. This can be attributed to the lubricant applied in the switch at the factory. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is unknown, making it challenging to contrast with the Honey switch in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience.
In conclusion, the TTC Honey linear switches offer a smooth, creamy feel and a subdued, pleasant sound profile, making them a popular choice for those seeking a refined typing experience. On the other hand, information regarding the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch's sound and feel is unknown, which may make it a bit more difficult to determine how it compares to the TTC Honey switch. However, it is possible that if the Cream Blue clicky switches are similar in design and construction to the Honey switches, users may expect to have a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Honey linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, consider the following guidelines: opt for the TTC Honey linear switch if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a smooth, creamy typing experience with a pleasant sound profile. On the other hand, choose the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a distinct clicky typing feel and sound. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.
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