Outemu Cream Blue vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Blue and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Blue and the Outemu Tom offer unique typing experiences for users. The Cream Blue is a clicky switch, known for its audible click sound upon actuation, providing tactile feedback for each key press. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom is a tactile switch, offering a more subtle bump when the key is pressed, giving users a tactile response without the audible click. While the Cream Blue may be preferred for those who enjoy the satisfying sound of typing, the Tom may be more suitable for those who prefer a tactile feel without the noise. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Blue and the Outemu Tom, it is evident that the Cream Blue features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Tom's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with its stiffer plastic material, providing a more clear and resonant sound. While the Cream Blue offers a dulled and rounded sound with its nylon bottom housing, the Tom also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile.
The clear distinction in sound profiles between the Cream Blue and the Tom lies in their top housing materials. The Cream Blue's nylon top housing produces a deeper sound with a softer tone, while the Tom's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. Aesthetically, the Tom's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. Conversely, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a consistent deep and dull sound profile when typing on these switches.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Cream Blue and the Outemu Tom will ultimately depend on the sound profile and aesthetic preferences of the user. The Cream Blue's nylon top housing provides a softer and fuller sound experience, while the Tom's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches share the benefits of a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile. Whether prioritizing sound quality or visual appeal with RGB lighting, users can choose between these switches based on their desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is evident that the Cream Blue is lighter in terms of actuation force at 50 grams compared to the Tom's 55 grams. However, the Cream Blue has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the bottom out force of the Tom is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Cream Blue for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Tom with its heavier actuation force. Despite the differences in force requirements, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, making them a good choice for users with varying preferences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch both offer different travel distances for users to consider. The Cream Blue has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Tom has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Cream Blue provides a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Tom, offering users a bit more depth in their keypress. On the other hand, the Tom has a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference - whether you prefer a shorter travel distance for quicker input or a longer travel distance for a more deliberate typing experience.
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 Tom.
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 Cream Blue clicky switch is known for its loud and satisfying click sound when pressed, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch is known for its quiet and subtle tactile bump when actuated, providing a smoother typing experience without the loud clicking noise.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Cream Blue is recognized for its light actuation force and distinct tactile feedback, giving typists a responsive and tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Tom tactile switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force and a more subtle tactile bump, providing a smoother and more linear typing feel.
In conclusion, while the Cream Blue switch is ideal for those who prefer a clicky and tactile typing experience with light actuation force, the Tom switch offers a quieter and smoother typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation force and subtle tactile feedback. Depending on your personal preferences in sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the choice ultimately coming down to individual preference. Whether you choose the Cream Blue or Tom switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience from Outemu switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, consider the factors that are most important to you. If you prioritize a satisfying clicky sound and a medium-heavy typing experience, the Cream Blue may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile bump without the audible click, the Tom switch could be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your choice should depend on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and typing force. Experiment with both switches to determine which one enhances your typing experience the most.
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