Cherry MX Brown vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Cream Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that they both fall under the tactile switch category. The MX Brown is recognized for its subtlety, providing a light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow lacks a specific defining characteristic in terms of typing experience. While the MX Brown is known for its textured, bassy, and low-pitched properties, the Cream Yellow does not have a distinct profile. When considering choosing between the two switches, one might prefer the MX Brown for its refined and subtle typing experience, while the Cream Yellow may be chosen for its simplicity. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, both the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Cream Yellow use nylon for their top and bottom housings. This makes them quite similar in terms of the overall sound profile they produce. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality when using either of these switches.
However, where the two switches may differ is in the specific design and construction of their housing materials. While both switches use nylon for their top and bottom housings, there may be subtle variations in the thickness or shape of the housings that could impact the overall sound and feel of the switch. For example, the Cherry MX Brown may have a slightly different top housing design compared to the Outemu Cream Yellow, leading to differences in typing feel and sound characteristics. These differences, albeit subtle, could affect the overall typing experience for users who are more attuned to these nuances.
Despite any potential differences in design, it is likely that the overall typing experience with the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Cream Yellow will be quite similar due to their shared use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings. Both switches are expected to offer a deep and full sound profile, with a softer plastic material that helps to absorb sound and create a more muted and rounded typing experience. In this sense, users can expect a consistent level of quality and performance from both switches, with any variations in feel or sound likely to be minimal and subjective to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, they both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that users can expect similar responsiveness when typing with either switch. However, the Cherry MX Brown has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly lighter than the Outemu Cream Yellow, which has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This difference in bottom out force may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier push feel. Overall, the Cherry MX Brown is lighter in terms of bottom out force, making it ideal for longer typing or gaming sessions, while the Outemu Cream Yellow offers a bit more resistance for those seeking a slightly heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Cherry MX Brown has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cream Yellow, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow provides a slightly shallower travel distance, making it a good choice for those who prioritize faster response times. Both switches offer a tactile feel, but the difference in travel distance caters to different preferences in typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a longer or shorter travel distance for your keyboard 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 Yellow 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
The Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their subtle tactile feedback and relatively quiet sound profile, with a deep and bassy tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow switches do not have specific sound or feel descriptors available. When it comes to feel, the MX Browns are described as having a textured feel, providing a slight friction when pressed. Without specific information on the Cream Yellow switches, it is difficult to directly compare the two in terms of feel. Overall, if you prefer a switch with a gentle tactility and subdued sound, the Cherry MX Brown switches would be a suitable choice. However, if you are looking for a switch with unknown qualities, trying the Outemu Cream Yellow switches may provide a different and potentially pleasing typing experience. Ultimately, both switches may offer similar results in terms of feel and sound, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the keyboard setup as a whole.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switches, consider the following factors. You may prefer the Cherry MX Brown if you are looking for a subtle and gentle typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams. The MX Brown also offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile along with a textured feel during key presses. On the other hand, you may opt for the Outemu Cream Yellow if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams and a different typing experience. As the Cream Yellow switches lack specific descriptors for sound and feel, it is important to try them out in person or read more reviews from users who have firsthand experience with them. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
