Cherry MX Brown vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Cream Blue mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately notice the stark differences in their key characteristics. The Cherry MX Brown switch is renowned for its subtle tactile feedback and quiet typing experience, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue switch offers a clicky typing experience with a more pronounced tactile feedback, appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced click sound with each keystroke. While the Cherry MX Brown switch is categorized as 'Textured', 'Bassy', and 'Low-pitched', the Cream Blue switch lacks a specific categorization. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style; 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
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Cream Blue switches use nylon for their top and bottom housing materials, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to switches using harder plastics. This similarity in housing materials allows for a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel for both switches.
While both switches share the same housing material, the impact of the housing on the overall sound profile differs slightly depending on whether it is the top or bottom housing. The bottom housing of a switch, which is more responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel, will have a more significant impact on the typing experience for both the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Cream Blue switches. The top housing, on the other hand, plays a more prominent role in the sound when a key is released.
Overall, the choice of nylon as the housing material for both the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Cream Blue switches contributes to their similar deep and full sound profiles. The softer nature of nylon allows for a more muted and rounded sound compared to switches using harder plastics. While there may be slight differences in how the top and bottom housing impact the sound profile, the overall typing experience for both switches will be quite comparable due to their shared use of nylon for their housing materials.
Weight
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch have different actuation and bottom out forces, giving users a choice based on their preferences. The MX Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Cream Blue's 50 grams, making it more sensitive to the touch. However, the Cream Blue requires a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the MX Brown only needs 55 grams. This means that the Cream Blue provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the MX Brown allows for longer typing periods due to its lighter touch. Both switches offer a different typing experience, catering to users who prefer varying levels of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches. It is worth noting that the Cherry MX Brown switch is known for its tactile feedback, while the Outemu Cream Blue switch is a clicky switch, providing an audible click when pressed. Despite these differences in feedback, the travel distance remains consistent between the two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00, whereas the Outemu Cream Blue 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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Brown switches offer a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue switches do not have specific descriptors for sound, indicating that they may not have as pronounced or distinguishable of a sound profile as the MX Browns. However, it's important to note that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their textured feel, which can provide a tactile experience with noticeable friction when pressed. Some users appreciate this texture for added feedback, while others may prefer a smoother typing experience. The Outemu Cream Blue switches do not have specific descriptors for feel, suggesting that they may not offer the same level of textural feedback as the MX Browns.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Brown switches are favored for their subtle tactility, bassy sound profile, and textured feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue switches may not offer as distinct of sound and feel characteristics compared to the MX Browns. If you enjoy the qualities of the MX Browns, you may find similar results with other switches that offer a gentle tactile experience and subdued audio feedback. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, you should choose the MX Brown if you prefer a lighter typing experience with subtle tactility and quieter feedback. On the other hand, opt for the Cream Blue if you prefer a slightly heavier typing feel with a more pronounced clicky sound during key presses. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound feedback, and bottom out force. Choose wisely and enjoy your mechanical keyboard experience!
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