Outemu Cream Blue vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Blue and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Cream Blue and the Outemu Dustproof Blue, both of which are clicky switches. The Cream Blue is best known for its smooth and tactile feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue is recognized for its durability and resistance to dust and debris, making it ideal for those who want a reliable and long-lasting switch. Both switches offer a clicky sound that many find enjoyable, but the Cream Blue focuses more on the typing feel while the Dustproof Blue prioritizes longevity. 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
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Overall, the Outemu Cream Blue and Outemu Dustproof Blue switches have different housing materials that impact the sound profile and feel of typing. The Cream Blue features a nylon top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that is more resonant. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting.
While the top housing materials of the Cream Blue and Dustproof Blue switches differ, both switches share a nylon bottom housing. This means that typing on either switch will elicit a similar deep and full sound profile, as nylon is known for its sound absorption properties. However, the Dustproof Blue's polycarbonate top housing will contribute to a sharper and clearer sound upon key release, whereas the Cream Blue's nylon top housing will produce a duller and rounder sound in comparison. The choice between the two housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of design and functionality, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials in switches can have a significant impact on the overall typing experience. The Cream Blue's nylon housing creates a more subdued sound profile that may be preferred by those looking for a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue's polycarbonate housing offers a crisper and more resonant sound that may appeal to typists seeking a more vibrant and defined typing sound. Ultimately, the decision between the two housing materials depends on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetic considerations such as compatibility with RGB lighting.
Weight
The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch have similar actuation and bottom out forces, both requiring 50 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of force required for keypresses on both switches. The actuation force of 50 grams on these switches provides a light and responsive feel, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. The bottom out force of 65 grams gives a satisfying tactile feedback, offering a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a balance between lightness and heaviness, catering to different preferences for typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will get a similar distance of travel from the top to the bottom. The travel distance of 4 mm provides a satisfying tactile feedback for typists and gamers alike, allowing for a responsive and comfortable typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a consistent travel distance, ensuring a consistent feel and performance across each key on the keyboard.
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 Cream Blue and Dustproof Blue.
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 Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is known for its crisp and satisfying click sound, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch offers a quieter typing experience with a more muted click. The Cream Blue switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a louder and more tactile typing experience, while the Dustproof Blue switch could be a better option for those looking for a quieter switch that still provides audible feedback. Ultimately, the sound produced by either switch will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
As for feel, the Outemu Cream Blue switch is known for its smooth keystrokes and tactile bump that provides a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch offers a similar tactile bump but with a slightly softer feel, making it a great option for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing. Both switches offer a tactile feedback that can enhance typing speed and accuracy, but the Cream Blue switch may be favored by those who prefer a more pronounced tactile bump, while the Dustproof Blue switch could be preferred by users who enjoy a slightly softer typing feel.
In conclusion, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch both offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Cream Blue switch provides a louder click sound and a more pronounced tactile bump, the Dustproof Blue switch offers a quieter typing experience with a softer feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as well as other factors such as typing style and usage preferences. Whether you choose the Cream Blue or Dustproof Blue switch, both options are reliable and high-quality choices for a satisfying mechanical keyboard typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, you should consider your priorities. If you are a newcomer looking for a louder and more tactile typing experience, the Cream Blue switch might be the way to go. On the other hand, if you value durability and dust resistance in your keyboard switches, the Dustproof Blue switch would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.