Cherry MX Orange vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Orange and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Orange and the Outemu Cream Blue offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Cherry MX Orange, categorized as a linear switch, is renowned for its smooth keystrokes and minimal resistance, making it ideal for gamers and typists who appreciate a seamless, uninterrupted flow while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue switch is a clicky switch characterized by its tactile feedback and audible click, providing an engaging experience for those who enjoy the sensation and sound of each keystroke, akin to the classic typewriters. While both switches cater to different user experiences—one prioritizing speed and fluidity, and the other emphasizing tactile sensation and auditory feedback—the decision ultimately hinges on your personal typing style and preferences. 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
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Yes
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Orange and the Outemu Cream Blue, it's noteworthy that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This common choice of material leads to similar auditory characteristics when typing on either switch. Nylon, being a softer plastic, has inherent acoustic properties that contribute to a deeper, fuller sound profile. This results in a typing experience that is resonant and muted, as nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, creating a rounder and less harsh auditory feedback. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound profile when typing on either the MX Orange or the Cream Blue switches due to the shared housing material.
While the housing materials are identical in both switches, their overall feel and performance may still differ based on other design aspects and internal mechanisms. The Cherry MX Orange is a tactile switch, providing a noticeable bump at the actuation point, while the Outemu Cream Blue is known for its clicky feedback, significantly enhancing the typing experience. The interaction of the nylon housings with the distinct internal components contributes to the differences in feel and sound. For users who enjoy a more tactile response, the MX Orange might be the preferable choice, while those seeking an audible click may find the Cream Blue more satisfying.
In conclusion, since both the MX Orange and Cream Blue switches are constructed with nylon for their top and bottom housings, they share fundamental qualities that create a similar sound profile. However, it is important to recognize that the overall experience will be influenced by their individual designs and intended uses. Whether users prioritize the tactile feedback of the MX Orange or the clicky response of the Cream Blue, both switches utilize the nylon material to enhance sound absorption and ensure a pleasant typing experience, albeit with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Orange linear switch to the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, we find notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cherry MX Orange requires an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Outemu Cream Blue has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the Cream Blue switch may be easier to press, making it a potentially better choice for users who favor a lighter feel for extended typing sessions. However, the bottom out force of the Cream Blue is specified at 65 grams, indicating a more substantial resistance when the key is fully pressed down, whereas the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Orange is unknown. Therefore, while the Cream Blue is lighter in actuation force, it provides a heavier bottoming out experience. For users who prefer a heavier typing feel, the Cherry MX Orange may be disappointing due to its unavailability of bottom out specifications, making it difficult to fully assess its weight in that regard. Hence, if someone is looking for a keyboard that offers a more pronounced tactile feedback from a heavier keypress, the Outemu Cream Blue might be the preferable option.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they require the same amount of movement from the key's top to the bottom when pressed. This similarity suggests that users can expect comparable keypress feel and response when using either switch, as the distance traveled is identical. However, while the travel distance is the same, the switches differ in their actuation mechanisms, with the MX Orange offering a smooth linear response and the Cream Blue providing a tactile click with each press. Thus, while the travel distance may be equal, the overall typing experience can vary significantly between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 Cherry MX Orange switches are relatively quiet, offering a subdued acoustic profile that allows for a more discreet typing experience. This makes them suitable for office environments or shared spaces where noise levels are a concern. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Blue switches produce a distinct and pronounced click with each keystroke, providing an audible feedback that many typists enjoy for its tactile satisfaction. This clicky characteristic can be both satisfying and undeniably loud, appealing to those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory response while typing.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Orange switches are known for their smooth linear action, allowing for a consistent keystroke without any tactile bumps. This makes them ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming, as there’s no interruption in the travel of the key. Conversely, the Outemu Cream Blue switches provide a tactile bump before the actuation point, giving users a physical indication that the key has been activated. This can be preferable for users who enjoy a more traditional typing experience, as the tactile feedback can enhance precision and control during typing sessions.
In summary, the Cherry MX Orange and Outemu Cream Blue switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The MX Orange leans toward a quieter and smoother typing experience, making it suitable for environments where discretion is essential. On the other hand, the Cream Blue's clicky and tactile nature satisfies those who appreciate auditory and physical feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for auditory feedback and the typing feel you desire, allowing you to select the one that best fits your typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Cherry MX Orange linear switches and Outemu Cream Blue clicky switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you favor a smooth, quiet experience without a tactile bump or click, the MX Orange is ideal for you. This switch is perfect for long hours of typing or gaming, where a quieter environment is preferred, and it ensures a consistent keypress feel without the disruption of sound. On the other hand, if you thrive on auditory feedback and enjoy a more tactile typing experience, the Cream Blue switch is likely your better choice. The pronounced click of the Cream Blue can make typing feel more engaging and help provide satisfying confirmation with each keystroke, which can be particularly enjoyable for casual tasks or programming. Therefore, consider your environment and typing style: opt for the MX Orange for a noise-sensitive setting or for a smoother, uninterrupted feel, and choose the Cream Blue for a lively, tactile journey that enhances your typing experience.
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