HMX Lucky vs. Outemu Cream Blue

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence your typing experience, and two standout options are the HMX Lucky and the Outemu Cream Blue switches. The HMX Lucky, known for its soft and glittery nylon housings, provides a linear typing experience that is both neutral and deeply satisfying. This makes it an excellent choice for users seeking fluid keystrokes and minimal resistance, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Blue offers a distinctly clicky feedback with pronounced audible sounds on each keystroke, catering to those who enjoy a more tactile and engaging typing experience. The clicky nature of the Cream Blue is particularly appealing for typists who appreciate auditory cues for each keypress, enhancing their overall enjoyment and productivity. Ultimately, each switch has its unique advantages, tailored to different preferences in typing feel and auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Lucky Linear

Outemu Cream Blue Clicky

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Lucky and the Outemu Cream Blue share a notable similarity in their housing materials, as both feature nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This commonality allows both switches to exhibit a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, attributable to nylon's properties as a relatively softer plastic. The use of nylon in both switches contributes to absorbing sound better than harder plastics, producing a duller and rounder auditory experience. As a result, users can expect similar acoustic characteristics from both the HMX Lucky and the Outemu Cream Blue, making them appealing for those who favor a more muted typing sound.

Although both the Lucky and Cream Blue utilize nylon for their housings, the effect on sound and feel can be influenced by the interaction of the top and bottom housings. Since the top housing generally impacts the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback, the combination of nylon materials in both switches reinforces their unified sound profile. Consequently, users will likely experience similar sonic qualities, as the materials in both housings are designed to work together harmoniously.

Overall, the identical choice of nylon in both the HMX Lucky and the Outemu Cream Blue means that users can look forward to a consistent typing experience, characterized by a softer landing and release sound. While individual preferences may lead users to favor one switch over the other based on other design elements or switch actuation mechanisms, the shared nylon material will undoubtedly deliver comparable auditory results. Users will find comfort in the knowledge that regardless of which switch they choose, they are likely to enjoy a similar tactile and acoustic experience, thanks to the inherent properties of the nylon used in both the top and bottom housings.

Weight

The HMX Lucky linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch differ significantly in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Lucky switch features a notably lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for extended typing sessions, as it requires less exertion and allows for less fatigue over time. In contrast, the Cream Blue switch demands a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial tactile feedback that may appeal to users who prefer a firmer keypress. Consequently, the Lucky switch is more suitable for those who prioritize lightness and comfort, whereas the Cream Blue switch caters to individuals who enjoy a stronger, more defined typing experience. Overall, while both switches serve distinct user preferences, the Lucky standouts as the lighter option, while the Cream Blue provides a heavier, more robust push feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, we find that the Lucky has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Cream Blue features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that if you opt for the Lucky switch, you will experience a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers or those who favor quicker responses. On the other hand, the Cream Blue, with its longer travel distance, might satisfy users who appreciate a more pronounced key press and a sense of depth in their typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer the briskness of a shorter travel distance or the more substantial feel that accompanies a longer key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Lucky linear switch is notably quieter, providing a smooth and muted auditory experience that is ideal for environments where minimal noise is preferred. This allows for uninterrupted focus, especially in shared workspaces or during late-night gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch offers a pronounced and satisfying audible click with each keypress, catering to users who enjoy a more tactile and loud feedback as they type. The pronounced sound can enhance the typing experience for those who appreciate auditory cues but may be disruptive in quieter settings.

In terms of feel, the Lucky linear switch is characterized by a smooth and creamy action that offers a neutral typing experience, allowing for seamless key presses without any tactile bumps. This can be particularly beneficial for users who favor rapid typing or gaming, as it allows for less finger fatigue over extended use. Meanwhile, the Cream Blue switch delivers a distinctly tactile feel, highlighted by a noticeable bump that precedes the actuation point, giving users a gratifying response with each keystroke. This tactile feedback can be highly satisfying for typists who enjoy the sensation of the key engaging, but it may not suit those who prefer a more fluid motion.

In conclusion, both switches bring unique qualities to the table, appealing to different preferences and typing styles. The HMX Lucky switch excels in providing a quieter, smoother experience, while the Outemu Cream Blue is geared toward users seeking pronounced audio and tactile feedback. Depending on the environment and personal preference, you might choose one over the other; however, both switches ultimately offer distinct yet enjoyable typing experiences.

Conclusion

To sum up, the choice between HMX Lucky linear switches and Outemu Cream Blue clicky switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch and a smooth typing experience that feels neutral, the HMX Lucky switches might be the perfect fit for you. Their softer nylon housings make them a pleasure to type on, especially if you do a lot of typing or gaming and want to minimize finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you enjoy the tactile feedback and a more pronounced auditory response while typing, the Outemu Cream Blue switches, with their medium-heavy actuation force, provide that satisfying click sound and a firmer feel. This makes them well-suited for typists who appreciate audible confirmation of their keystrokes and don’t mind a bit of extra resistance. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize a smooth and subtle experience over a satisfying clicky feedback; both options have their strengths, catering to different typing preferences and needs.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Lucky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Cream Blue Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more