Zuoce Lavender vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Zuoce Lavender to the Outemu Cream Blue mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider the key differences between these two options. The Lavender switch is touted for its exceptional smoothness thanks to its unique blend, providing an effortless typing experience that is both easy-to-press and clacky. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch doesn't have a specific standout feature, yet still offers a satisfyingly crisp and clicky sound with each keystroke. While the Lavender switch may be preferred for its smoothness and distinct sound, the Cream Blue switch still has its own appeal for those who enjoy a satisfying clicking 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
48g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and the Outemu Cream Blue have different housing materials for both the top and bottom of the switch. The Lavender uses POM for both its top and bottom housing, while the Cream Blue uses nylon for both. POM is known for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile, whereas nylon elicits a fuller and rounder sound profile. This difference in material results in a distinct typing experience for each switch.
When comparing the top housing materials of the Lavender and the Cream Blue, we see that POM and nylon offer different sound profiles. POM creates a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper in tone, while nylon absorbs more sound and produces a fuller sound. This means that typing on the Lavender will result in a quieter and more subdued sound compared to the Cream Blue. The choice between POM and nylon top housing ultimately comes down to personal preference for sound profile and typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the POM and nylon also offer contrasting qualities. POM creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while nylon absorbs more sound and creates a rounder sound. This means that the bottom-out sound and feel of the Lavender will be different from that of the Cream Blue. The impact of the bottom housing material on the typing experience is important to consider when choosing between the two switches, as it can greatly affect the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Weight
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch have different actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different preferences. The Lavender has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. In contrast, the Cream Blue has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, resulting in a medium-heavy feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Lavender for longer typing sessions or gaming, while users looking for a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier forces of the Cream Blue. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lavender switch would provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for fast reactions. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch offers a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Both switches have their unique benefits, so the choice between the two would ultimately depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch is praised for its exceptionally smooth feel straight out of the box, thanks to its unique Ly blend. Typing on the Lavender switch provides a satisfying experience with minimal effort required, making it ideal for long typing sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch offers a distinct clacky sound signature that adds a touch of crispness to each keystroke. Despite the lack of specific information on its feel, the Cream Blue switch is likely to provide a tactile feedback similar to other clicky switches on the market.
Overall, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch stands out for its smooth feel and easy-to-press nature, while the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch offers a satisfying clacky sound. Both switches provide qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Lavender focusing on smoothness and the Cream Blue emphasizing a crisp sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize feel or sound in your typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a light actuation force and a clacky sound signature, then the Lavender switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy clicky switches for that satisfying tactile feedback, then the Cream Blue switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of typing feel and sound. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences for an optimal typing experience.
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