Cherry MX Orange vs. Outemu Cream Pink

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Orange and Outemu Cream Pink offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Cherry MX Orange switches are celebrated for their enhanced tactile feedback, providing a satisfying, responsive feel that appeals to typists and gamers alike. Originally developed in collaboration with Hirose and recently revived with MX2A generation enhancements, these switches cater to those seeking a blend of performance and nostalgia. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Pink switches present a smooth linear actuation that prioritizes a quiet and uninterrupted typing experience, making them an attractive choice for users who prefer a more subtle feel without the tactile bump. While both switches are linear and aim to enhance productivity and gaming, their unique characteristics serve different user needs—whether it's Cherry MX's storied heritage or Outemu's focus on smoothness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Orange Linear

Outemu Cream Pink Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The Cherry MX Orange and Outemu Cream Pink switches both feature nylon as their housing material, which presents some interesting similarities in terms of sound profile and overall tactile experience. The nylon employed in both switches serves as a classic choice, contributing to a deeper, fuller sound when typing. This material is relatively softer compared to harder plastics, allowing for better sound absorption. Therefore, the result is a less harsh, rounder sound when key presses are made, which can enhance the typing experience for users who prefer a more muted auditory feedback.

Both switches employ nylon for their top and bottom housings, resulting in consistency in the qualities of sound produced. As both the top and bottom housings of the MX Orange and Cream Pink are made from nylon, users can expect a harmonious auditory character across their typing experience. This uniformity means that whether you are bottoming out or releasing a key, the characteristics imparted by the nylon material are equally felt, yielding a cohesive sound signature across different actions. The muffling effect of the nylon contributes to an overall pleasant typing experience, regardless of the specific switch being used.

While the use of nylon in both the Cherry MX Orange and Outemu Cream Pink switches produces very similar sound profiles, subtle nuances may still arise from variations in switch design and actuation force. As the bottom housing largely influences the bottom-out sound and feel, any potential differences in design can affect overall performance, even if both share the same housing material. Ultimately, users can appreciate a rich auditory environment from both switches, leading to an enjoyable typing experience—though individual preferences for actuation force and feel may sway their choice between the two.

Weight

When comparing the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, we see some differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cherry MX Orange has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Outemu Cream Pink is slightly lighter at 50 grams. This difference in actuation force suggests that the Cream Pink switch may be easier on the fingers during extended typing or gaming sessions, making it potentially more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Pink switch has a defined bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating a more substantial feel when bottoming out, which users seeking a heavier switch may appreciate. The Cherry MX Orange's bottom out force is unknown, so we can't make a direct comparison there. Overall, the Outemu Cream Pink is the lighter option in terms of actuation force but provides a firmer bottoming experience, while the Cherry MX Orange may cater to those who favor slightly heavier actuation without the specific bottom out resistance data.

Travel distance

The Cherry MX Orange and Outemu Cream Pink linear switches both share the same travel distance of 4 mm. This identical measurement means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key travel when using either switch. As both switches require the same amount of distance to be pressed down from top to bottom, they will provide comparable feedback and responsiveness during use. Therefore, regardless of which switch is chosen, the travel distance will not differ, allowing for a uniform feel across both options.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Orange switch is noted for its smooth and relatively quiet operation, which makes it suitable for environments where noise reduction is a consideration. However, specific sound characteristics of the Cream Pink switch remain largely unknown, as they don't have a widely documented reputation or notable sound profile. Sound can also be heavily influenced by the keyboard's construction, keycap material, and layout, so individual experiences may vary substantially depending on the overall setup.

When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Orange switch is appreciated for its linear action, offering a uniformly smooth keystroke without the tactile bump or click found in other switch types. As for the Cream Pink switch, detailed information about its feel is also limited, leaving potential users without concrete testimonials about its linearity or any unique characteristics. Again, both switches deliver a linear feel, so if you prefer a seamless typing experience, you may find similarities in the action regardless of which switch you choose.

Overall, both the Cherry MX Orange and Outemu Cream Pink switches cater to those who appreciate linear switches, although the specifics of their sound and feel can vary, particularly due to the lack of established characteristics for the Cream Pink. While the MX Orange offers a reliable sound profile and a well-regarded feel, the Cream Pink's mysteries present an opportunity for discovery. Ultimately, both options can provide smooth typing experiences, and users may need to rely on their personal preferences in sound and tactile feedback, informed by the overall keyboard setup they choose.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between Cherry MX Orange linear switches and Outemu Cream Pink linear switches boils down to your personal preferences in key feel and actuation weight, as well as the sound profile you desire. If you gravitate towards a smooth, consistent keystroke experience with no audible click and appreciate the legacy and enhancements of a well-regarded switch like the MX Orange, then it is an excellent option, especially for typing and gaming. However, if you prefer a more tactile experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force that provides satisfying feedback as you bottom out the keys, the Cream Pink switch may be more to your liking. Additionally, consider the overall sound: if you enjoy a quieter workspace, the MX Orange might suit you better, while the Cream Pink could appeal to those who appreciate a slightly more pronounced acoustic profile without being overwhelmingly loud. Ultimately, it’s essential to take into account what feels and sounds best for you, keeping in mind how these switches might affect your daily typing or gaming performance.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Cream Pink Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more