Outemu Cream Blue vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Blue and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Cream Blue and the SP-Star Polaris Gray mechanical keyboard switches, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. The Cream Blue is a clicky switch, known for its tactile feedback and audible click with each key press. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray is a linear switch, offering a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump or audible click. While the Cream Blue may appeal to those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience, the Polaris Gray is ideal for those who prefer a quieter and smoother feel while typing. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Outemu Cream Blue and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches both feature a top housing made of different materials, with the Cream Blue utilizing a nylon top housing and the Polaris Gray using a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Cream Blue provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Polaris Gray results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer nature, producing a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the clear polycarbonate housing of the Polaris Gray is particularly useful for RGB lighting as it allows light to pass through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch.
Similarly, the bottom housing of the Cream Blue and the Polaris Gray differ in material composition, with the Cream Blue featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Polaris Gray incorporating a polycarbonate bottom housing. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing of the Cream Blue contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray enhances the sharp and crisp sound profile of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when a key is released. Overall, the choice of housing material for both the top and bottom components of a switch can have a noticeable effect on the sound and feel of typing.
In instances where the top and bottom housings of a switch are different, such as in the Cream Blue and Polaris Gray switches, the unique qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. This division results in distinct sound profiles for the bottom-out and key release actions of the switch, with the bottom housing impacting the feel and sound during typing and the top housing influencing the sound when keys are released. Whether utilizing nylon or polycarbonate in the top and bottom housings, each material brings its own characteristics to the overall typing experience, allowing users to customize their switches based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force for the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is 50 grams, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch does not have a specified actuation force. However, the bottom out force for the Cream Blue is 65 grams, slightly lighter than the 67 grams required to bottom out the Polaris Gray. This means that the Cream Blue switch requires a lighter initial force to trigger a key press, but a heavier force to fully press the key down compared to the Polaris Gray. For those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming, the Cream Blue may be the better option. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, the Polaris Gray may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer a consistent typing experience. The short and uniform travel distance of 4 mm for both switches allows for quick and precise typing, making them ideal choices for those who require a consistent typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Cream Blue switch is known for its clicky sound, providing users with a tactile and auditory feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch offers a low-pitched and thocky sound profile. While the Cream Blue switch is more geared towards users who enjoy a sharp and distinct clicking noise, the Polaris Gray switch provides a deeper and more mellow sound, making it suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Cream Blue switch lacks specific descriptors in the provided information. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. The mild typing experience indicates a gentle key press with approachable qualities that cater to a wide range of users. Additionally, the polished finish of the Polaris Gray switch ensures smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing feel. With these characteristics, the Polaris Gray switch offers a comfortable and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, the Cream Blue clicky switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cream Blue switch provides a clicky sound and features that cater to users who enjoy tactile feedback, the Polaris Gray switch offers a more mellow and polished typing experience suitable for a broader range of users. Depending on personal preference and typing style, either switch can provide a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience and provide users with options to suit their preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a tactile and clicky typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Cream Blue switch may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and smooth typing feel with a slightly higher bottom out force, the Polaris Gray switch could be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your individual needs and preferences.
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