Cherry MX Red vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Cream Pink both fall under the category of linear switches. The MX Red is a classic Cherry switch known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the Cream Pink is a lesser-known linear switch that may not have as much recognition, but still offers a smooth and consistent typing experience. While the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Cream Pink does not have any specific categorizations. When considering which switch to choose, the MX Red may be preferred for those who enjoy a slightly heavier feel and more pronounced sound, while the Cream Pink could be ideal for those looking for a smoother and quieter typing experience. 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
2.00 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
Both the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Cream Pink switches use nylon for their top and bottom housings, resulting in a similar typing experience. The nylon material in the housing of both switches creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This leads to a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches, providing a satisfying auditory experience for users.
Despite both switches having the same housing material, the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Cream Pink may differ in the exact design and construction of their housings, which could affect the overall typing feel. The top housing of a switch typically influences the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. Therefore, differences in the design of the housings between the two switches could result in variations in the typing experience, even though they both use nylon material.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Cream Pink switches play a significant role in creating a distinctive typing sound and feel. Both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characterized by a dull and round sound. While the exact design of the housings may differ between the two switches, the overall typing experience is likely to be similar due to the shared use of nylon material.
Weight
In comparing the Cherry MX Red linear switch to the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force of the Cherry MX Red is lighter at 45 grams compared to the 50 grams required for the Cream Pink. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cherry MX Red's force is unknown while the Cream Pink requires 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cherry MX Red would be the better option, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink provides a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier bottom out force, which can be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, users will experience the same distance traveled by both switches. As a result, the travel distance of the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Cream Pink linear switches are equal, providing a similar typing experience for users in terms of the distance traveled when pressing down on the keys.
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 Pink 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 Red switch is known for producing a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, giving a deep and satisfying auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the sound profile of the Outemu Cream Pink switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Red is described as having a textured feel, which can provide some users with a tactile feedback while typing. Meanwhile, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Outemu Cream Pink switch. It is worth mentioning that the feel of a switch is a personal preference, with some users preferring a smoother typing experience while others enjoy a more tactile feel.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Red linear switch offers a robust typing experience with a slightly heftier feel and deeper, thocky sound profile. On the other hand, information on the subjective qualities of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch is lacking. As a result, if you are looking for a similar typing experience to the Cherry MX Red, you may want to consider factors such as sound and feel preferences before making a decision on which switch to choose for your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
Overall, when choosing between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier feel and deeper sound profile, the Cherry MX Red may be the better option for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a thocky and low-pitched sound when typing, the MX Red could be more to your liking. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a smoother, friction-free typing experience, the Outemu Cream Pink may be the switch for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences in terms of typing feel and sound profile. Experimenting with different switches can help you determine what works best for your typing style and preferences.
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