Outemu Cream Blue vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Blue and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Blue, a clicky switch, and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), a tactile switch, offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Cream Blue is best known for its strong auditory feedback. It is categorized as a clicky switch. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) stands out for its maximum tactility, providing a punchy typing experience with sharp feedback and a satisfying clean clack. It is characterized by its resonant, neutral, sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating qualities. The Cream Blue may appeal to those who prefer a quieter typing experience, while the POM T1 is ideal for those who crave a high level of tactile feedback. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right 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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Blue and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), both switches utilize soft plastics in their top housings. The Cream Blue's nylon top housing is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb more sound. On the other hand, the POM T1's POM top housing produces a unique sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound profile.
In terms of bottom housing material, both switches continue to use the same soft plastic materials. The Cream Blue's nylon bottom housing, similar to its top housing, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Similarly, the POM T1's POM bottom housing produces a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. Despite differences in material composition, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience with their sound profiles influenced by the properties of their respective bottom housings.
Overall, while the Outemu Cream Blue and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) utilize different materials in their top and bottom housings, both switches aim to deliver a deep and full sound profile. The nylon and POM housing materials each contribute to a unique typing experience, with the top and bottom housings influencing the sound in different ways. Whether you prefer the duller and rounder sound of nylon or the pleasing and somewhat muted sound of POM, both switches offer options for those seeking a more sophisticated typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it is evident that both switches fall within the medium-heavy range in terms of force required. The Cream Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) does not specify an actuation force but has a bottom out force of 67 grams. In this case, the Cream Blue is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the POM T1, but heavier in terms of bottom out force. This means that typing on the Cream Blue may feel slightly easier at the initial press, while typing on the POM T1 may provide a more significant tactile feedback and resistance when pressing down fully. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference, with some preferring the lighter actuation force of the Cream Blue for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the POM T1 for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar experience in terms of how far the switch travels when pressed. With both switches having the same travel distance, users can enjoy a consistent typing or gaming experience regardless of which switch they choose. Having a 4 mm travel distance allows for a satisfying key press that strikes a balance between key travel and actuation force. Whether you prefer the clicky feedback of the Cream Blue or the tactile feel of the POM T1, both switches offer a comfortable and consistent typing experience with their identical travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch offers a classic, clicky typing experience with a satisfying clack. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch provides a resonant and higher-pitched sound profile that enhances the typing experience. The Cream Blue switch may be more traditional in its sound, while the POM T1 switch offers a more immersive auditory experience with its clean and sharp sound profile. Ultimately, your choice of sound profile will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offer different tactile experiences. The Cream Blue switch is known for None, while the POM T1 switch boasts a sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating tactile feedback that enhances the typing feel. The Cream Blue switch may provide a more standard tactile feel, while the POM T1 switch offers a more pronounced and reactive tactile sensation. Your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a traditional tactile feel or a more intense and responsive tactile experience.
Overall, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Blue switch offers a classic clicky typing sound and a standard tactile feel, while the POM T1 switch provides a resonant sound profile and a sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating tactile feedback. Both switches have their strengths, and your choice between them will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and will provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Durock POM T1 tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are seeking a switch with a lower bottom out force for a slightly lighter typing experience, you may lean towards the Cream Blue. However, if you desire maximum tactility with a punchy feedback and a higher bottom out force, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is the better choice for you. Additionally, if you prefer a resonant, higher-pitched sound profile, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a cleaner and sharp sound, the Cream Blue may be more suitable. Lastly, if you enjoy sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating tactile feedback, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a more intense typing sensation compared to the Cream Blue. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feedback.
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