Outemu Cream Blue vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Blue and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves debating the merits of different styles, particularly clicky switches like the Outemu Cream Blue and linear options like the HMX Poro. The Cream Blue is celebrated for its satisfying tactile feedback and pronounced auditory click, making it an excellent choice for typists and gamers who enjoy a more responsive and engaging experience with each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Poro offers a completely different feel, providing silky smooth keystrokes that are meticulously lubricated for an effortless glide, along with a lighter actuation force that appeals to those who prioritize speed and stealth over auditory feedback. While each switch has its unique strengths—be it the nostalgic click of the Cream Blue or the seamless experience of the Poro—general insights only scratch the surface of their differences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Cream Blue and HMX Poro both utilize nylon as their building material for both the top and bottom housing. This commonality brings a significant advantage to both switches, as nylon is recognized for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Being a relatively softer plastic, nylon tends to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, which contributes to a distinctively duller and rounder auditory experience. As a result, users can expect similar acoustic results when typing on either switch, enhancing the tactile and auditory satisfaction of their keyboard usage.
While both the Cream Blue and Poro switches share identical materials, it's important to note how these properties manifest differently depending on the housing's placement. The bottom housing is more influential in determining the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed down. Consequently, both switches will likely provide a similar sensation and sound at this moment of actuation, fostering a consistent user experience across both models. Conversely, the top housing plays a more critical role when releasing a key, contributing to the sound profile as the key returns to its rest position. This aspect could introduce slight variations in feel and sound depending on any potential differences in design or internal structure, despite the same nylon composition.
In essence, the identical use of nylon in the housing of both the Outemu Cream Blue and HMX Poro guarantees that users will enjoy comparable auditory experiences, characterized by a rich, softened sound. However, the interaction between the top and bottom housings enables a division in how these similarities apply physically during use – where the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sensation and sound, while the top housing impacts the release sound. Thus, while the materials are the same and can foster consistent results, the overall experience will ultimately depend on how each switch is designed and configured beyond just the material choices.
Weight
The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the HMX Poro linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences in typing feel. The Cream Blue requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, positioning it as a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Poro switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Poro more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for easier and longer typing sessions, ideal for work or extended gaming. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience might gravitate towards the Cream Blue due to its heavier forces. The difference in these forces means users will experience a contrasting typing feel—those who favor a strong push will benefit more from the Cream Blue, while those seeking comfort and lower resistance should opt for the Poro.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Poro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This difference in travel distance indicates that the Cream Blue offers a more pronounced depth when pressed, which may appeal to users who enjoy a robust feel and tactile feedback. Conversely, the Poro's shorter 3.7 mm distance provides a snappier response, making it preferable for gamers who prioritize faster key actuation. Those who lean towards a more instantaneous action in their typing or gaming experience might find the Poro beneficial, while others who appreciate a deeper keystroke may prefer the Cream Blue. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference, with a clear distinction in travel distance marking the Cream Blue as the longer option and the Poro as the shorter.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Poro has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poro for $2.99.
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 Outemu Cream Blue switch produces a distinctively clicky and sharp auditory feedback that is characteristic of traditional clicky switches. It is designed to accentuate the typing experience with a clear, tactile sound that signals each keypress. On the other hand, the HMX Poro linear switch features a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile with an ultra-light actuation force, which gives it a more muted yet pronounced auditory experience compared to the Cream Blue. While both switches provide unique sound characteristics, the Cream Blue offers a more pronounced click, while the Poro leans towards a smoother, less intrusive sound that still delivers satisfaction.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Cream Blue switch gives a tactile feedback that is engaging for typists who thrive on the physical and auditory confirmations of their keystrokes. The prominent actuation point allows for a noticeable response as you type, contributing to a more interactive experience. Conversely, the HMX Poro switch prioritizes a silky smooth keystroke experience with meticulous lubrication, resulting in an effortless glide for each press. This means that while the Cream Blue is more tactile and expressive, the Poro offers a smoother experience that can be more favorable for those focusing on speed and fluidity in their workflow.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and HMX Poro linear switch offer differing experiences in terms of sound and feel, they both cater to distinct preferences in mechanical keyboard users. The Cream Blue is suited for those who enjoy clear, tactile feedback and an auditory confirmation with each keystroke, while the Poro is ideal for users who favor a smoother, quieter typing experience without sacrificing satisfaction. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether one prioritizes tactile sound and feedback or seeks a seamless, smooth typing journey.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the HMX Poro linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a tactile and auditory feedback while typing, the Cream Blue, with its medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams, might be the better choice for you. Its clicky sound and feel can offer a satisfying experience, especially if you thrive on the sensation of each keystroke. This makes it suitable for typists who appreciate the traditional mechanical keyboard feel, or for those who enjoy the rhythmic sound that can enhance their typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience, the HMX Poro linear switch’s light bottom-out force of 50 grams is perfect for you. With its silky smooth keystrokes and minimal resistance, you can type with speed and ease, making it ideal for gaming or long writing sessions where you want to avoid fatigue. Thus, your decision should align with whether you seek a more tactile, clicky experience or a streamlined, quiet one, allowing you to find the switch that best suits your needs.
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