Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent 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 Silent Red and Outemu Cream Blue offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The MX Silent Red is a linear switch that provides a slightly heftier feel compared to the traditional MX Red switch, but with the added benefit of silent operation. This makes it perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying typing experience with a significantly quieter sound profile, particularly ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue is a clicky switch that is known for its tactile feedback and audible click sound. While the MX Silent Red is categorized as ['Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured'], the Cream Blue lacks specific categories. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, 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
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 Silent Red and the Outemu Cream Blue switches use a nylon top housing, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. The nylon material absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This similarity in housing material suggests that both switches may offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, there is a difference between the Cherry MX Silent Red and Outemu Cream Blue switches. The MX Silent Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which also contributes to the deep and full sound profile associated with nylon. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch features a different bottom housing material, implying that there may be subtle differences in the bottom-out sound and feel of these two switches. Despite this discrepancy, both switches' bottom housings play a crucial role in the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Cherry MX Silent Red and Outemu Cream Blue switches feature nylon top housings that offer a similar typing experience, the difference in bottom housing materials may lead to slight variations in the sound and feel of typing on these switches. The nylon material used in the housing of these switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a distinct typing experience compared to switches made with harder plastics. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the nuances in sound and feel provided by their respective housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the MX Silent Red is the lighter of the two. The MX Silent Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Cream Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams. Additionally, the MX Silent Red has a bottom out force that is not specified, whereas the Cream Blue has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the MX Silent Red more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Cream Blue. Both switches offer different experiences based on the force required, so users should consider their preference for actuation and bottom out forces when choosing between the two.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of standard travel distances, with the Cream Blue offering a slightly deeper key press experience. Gamers may prefer the MX Silent Red for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while others may find the Cream Blue more satisfying for its deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 Silent Red switch offers a muted and thocky sound profile, providing a quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue switch's sound profile is unknown. When it comes to feel, the MX Silent Red switch is described as having a textured feel, which can add an interesting tactile sensation to each keystroke. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Cream Blue switch is also unknown. In conclusion, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch would be a great choice. However, if you enjoy the clicky sound and tactile feedback of clicky switches like the Outemu Cream Blue, you may want to consider the latter. Remember that both switches can provide a satisfactory typing experience, depending on your personal preference and typing habits.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch or the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you are looking for a switch that offers a quiet typing experience without sacrificing the satisfying feel of a mechanical switch, the MX Silent Red is a great option. On the other hand, if you enjoy the audible feedback and tactile feel of a clicky switch, the Cream Blue may be more suitable for you. Consider factors such as noise sensitivity, typing environment, and the type of sound and feel you prefer in a keyboard switch when making your decision. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on what you prioritize in your typing experience.
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