Cherry MX Red vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Cream Blue are popular options that offer unique characteristics. The Cherry MX Red is a linear switch known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue is a clicky switch that offers a distinct clicking sound with every keystroke. While the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', the Cream Blue does not have any specific categorizations. Each switch has its own strengths and drawbacks, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Cream Blue, both switches feature nylon top and bottom housings. This means that they both offer a deep and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, users can expect a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that utilize nylon housing. Therefore, in terms of sound quality and typing experience, the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Cream Blue would provide similar results.
However, despite the similarities in housing materials, there may be differences in the overall feel and sound profile of the switches due to potential variations in design and construction. For instance, the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Cream Blue switches may have different spring weights, stem designs, or contact mechanisms that can impact the typing experience. These differences could result in variations in actuation force, travel distance, and overall typing feel, even when both switches utilize nylon housing.
Ultimately, while both the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Cream Blue switches feature nylon top and bottom housings that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, the overall typing experience may still vary based on other factors such as spring weight and stem design. Both switches are known for providing a tactile typing experience, but individual preferences for actuation force and key feel may lead users to prefer one switch over the other. Therefore, while the housing materials play a significant role in sound quality, it is important for users to consider the entire switch design when choosing between the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Cream Blue.
Weight
The Cherry MX Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches do not have a specified bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cherry MX Red switch may be more suitable, allowing for longer typing sessions without as much fatigue. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation force, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired weight of the keys.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. Despite both switches having the same travel distance, they offer different typing experiences due to their unique mechanisms. The Cherry MX Red provides a smooth and consistent keystroke with no tactile bump or audible feedback, making it ideal for gamers who require fast and quiet key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch offers a tactile bump and audible click with each keystroke, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer feedback and precision. While their travel distances may be the same, the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Cream Blue switches cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel and noise level.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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
The Cherry MX Red linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch's sound profile is unknown. When it comes to feel, the MX Red is described as having a textured feel, providing users with a tactile feedback during typing. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Cream Blue is also unknown. Overall, while the MX Red offers a robust typing experience with a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound, the qualities of the Outemu Cream Blue remain unknown. If looking for a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, opting for the MX Red might be the better choice based on the provided information. Remember that personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch for you, so it's always beneficial to try out different switches before making a final decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile with a satisfying auditory depth, the Cherry MX Red may be the better option for you. The MX Red is known for its responsiveness and robust typing experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch that offers a unique tactile and auditory experience, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch might be more appealing to you. Ultimately, the decision between these switches should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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