Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, there are distinct differences to consider. The Ink Yellow offers a shorter travel distance and a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. Known for its smoothness and clackiness, this switch is recommended for those looking for a neutral, clacky, mild, and polished feel. In contrast, the Cream Blue switch doesn't have a specific standout feature but falls into a different category altogether. If you're looking for a switch that provides a satisfying clicky feel, the Cream Blue might be the choice for you. 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
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Cream Blue switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their different material compositions. The Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a pointed and higher-pitched sound, resulting in a satisfyingly clacky typing experience. In contrast, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, creating a rounder and duller tone. This difference in sound profile can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the Ink Yellow and Cream Blue switches contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend bottom housing continues the trend of a pointed and higher-pitched sound, creating a clackier feel when bottoming out keys. On the other hand, the Cream Blue's nylon bottom housing enhances the typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. These differences in bottom housing materials further emphasize the distinct characteristics of each switch and cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of mechanical switches like the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Cream Blue. While the Ink Yellow showcases a clackier and higher-pitched sound with its proprietary INK blend material in both the top and bottom housing, the Cream Blue offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon housing. Understanding how these housing materials impact sound and feel can help users choose the right switch for their preferred typing experience, whether they prioritize a clacky feel or a deeper, fuller sound.
Weight
The actuation force of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch is 60 grams, whereas the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, making it the lighter of the two. However, both switches have a bottom out force in the medium-heavy range, with the Ink Yellow requiring 67 grams and the Cream Blue needing 65 grams. Choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences regarding typing feel. The lighter actuation force of the Cream Blue may appeal to those who prefer a gentler touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the heavier actuation force of the Ink Yellow could provide a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, selecting the ideal switch comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In comparing the two, it is clear that the Cream Blue has a slightly longer travel distance than the Ink Yellow. The 3.5 mm travel distance of the Ink Yellow is on the shorter side, making it favored by gamers for its faster response time. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Cream Blue may provide a more substantial depth to key presses, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offers a combination of a neutral sound profile with a clacky feel. This means that users can expect a moderate actuation force requirement along with a sharp and snappy sound when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch does not have a sound descriptor provided, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Ink Yellow provides a mild and polished typing experience. This means that users can expect a gentler typing sensation with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, specific information about the feel of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is not available. Without this data, it is challenging to make a direct comparison in terms of typing feel between the two switches.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offers a pleasant typing experience with a neutral and clacky sound profile, along with a mild and polished feel. While detailed information about the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is not provided, it is likely that users can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel by considering factors such as typing preferences, keyboard construction, and keycap choices. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, clacky typing experience, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch would be a great choice for you. This switch is perfect for those seeking a balance between a laptop and standard mechanical keyboard feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a similar bottom out force and enjoy a more tactile typing experience, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch might be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, tactile feedback, and overall typing experience.
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