Outemu Black vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Black and Outemu Cream Pink are two popular options to consider. The Outemu Black is a linear switch, known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink is also a linear switch, known for its unique pink housing and responsive typing experience. While both switches offer a linear typing experience, the Outemu Black may be preferred for its simplicity and reliability, while the Outemu Cream Pink may appeal to those looking for a bit more flair in their keyboard setup. 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
65g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Black and the Outemu Cream Pink, we can see that they both feature a nylon top housing. Both nylon housings elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that is preferred by many typists. While the Cream Pink's nylon top housing is known for creating this particular sound profile, the use of nylon in the Black's top housing also contributes to a similar typing experience.
On the other hand, the Outemu Black features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when compared to the Cream Pink's nylon bottom housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate lends itself to a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it popular for those seeking a different auditory experience while typing. The Cream Pink's nylon bottom housing, while still contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile, will offer a slightly different feel and sound upon bottoming out a key.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Black and the Outemu Cream Pink housing materials will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. The use of polycarbonate in the Black's top housing will produce a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Cream Pink's nylon top housing will offer a deeper and rounder sound. Both switches feature a nylon bottom housing which contributes to a fuller sound profile, albeit with slight variations in feel. Ultimately, the housing materials play a significant role in the overall typing experience and can help typists achieve the sounds and tactile feedback they desire.
Weight
The Outemu Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch. The Black switch requires 65 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 82 grams of force to bottom out, making it a heavier option. On the other hand, the Cream Pink switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. The Black switch would provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Cream Pink switch would be ideal for those looking for a lighter typing experience for longer durations. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch is the same, both measuring at 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent 4 mm travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users will get a similar typing experience in terms of the tactile feedback and key responsiveness provided by both switches. Therefore, whether you choose the Outemu Black or the Outemu Cream Pink, you can expect to have a consistent travel distance and feel while typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Black and Cream Pink.
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 Outemu Black linear switch is known for its smooth keystrokes and lack of tactile feedback. In terms of sound, the Black switch is relatively quiet with a soft thud when the key bottoms out. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch is also smooth and does not have any tactile feedback. When it comes to sound, the Cream Pink switch produces a slightly higher-pitched noise compared to the Black switch, but it is still relatively quiet overall. In terms of feel, both switches provide a similar typing experience with a consistent actuation force, making them suitable for fast typists. Overall, whether you choose the Outemu Black or Cream Pink switch, you can expect a smooth and quiet typing experience, with the main difference being the slight variation in sound between the two.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Black linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, consider the bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a heavier typing experience, with a bottom out force of 82 grams, the Outemu Black may be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter feel, with a bottom out force of 65 grams, the Outemu Cream Pink could be more suited to your typing style. Both switches are known for their smooth linear actuation, so the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether you prioritize the heavier feel of the Black switch or the lighter touch of the Cream Pink switch, both options offer a reliable and consistent typing experience.
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