Outemu Cream Blue vs. Huano Strawberry Latte

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Cream Blue and the Huano Strawberry Latte present two distinct options catering to different typing experiences. The Cream Blue switch is an engaging clicky switch, delivering tactile feedback that many typists love for its distinctive auditory response, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more traditional typewriter feel. On the other hand, the Huano Strawberry Latte is a smooth linear switch, known for its effortless actuation and balanced sound profile, striking a comfortable middle ground that's neither too quiet nor overly resonant; this makes it perfect for users who prefer a more muted typing experience and fast, uninterrupted keystrokes. Each switch has its unique benefits: the Cream Blue excites with its distinct clicks, while the Strawberry Latte offers a seamless typing flow. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Cream Blue Clicky

Huano Strawberry Latte Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Outemu Cream Blue and Huano Strawberry Latte switches incorporate different materials for their top housings, which significantly affects their overall sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Cream Blue features a nylon top housing, a well-known choice in the mechanical keyboard community due to its softer nature. This characteristic allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller audio experience, often described as duller and rounder. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte utilizes POK material for its top housing, which is engineered for a smoother typing experience with a slightly higher coefficient of friction. This material contributes to a sharper, clackier sound and offers enhanced durability, setting it apart from the more traditional nylon used in the Cream Blue.

When examining the bottom housings, both the Cream Blue and Strawberry Latte adopt nylon, which creates a uniformity in their sound profiles. The core aspect of nylon is its ability to soften the bottom-out sound, resulting in a consistent deep resonance during keystrokes. Because both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, users can expect similar outcomes in terms of the sound produced when pressing down on the keys. However, the differing top housing materials lead to contrasts in the overall typing experience, with the Cream Blue providing a dulcet tone and the Strawberry Latte delivering a punchier response when key releases occur.

Ultimately, the interplay between the distinctive top and bottom housing materials defines the character of each switch. The Cream Blue's softer nylon top promotes a unified sound profile characterized by warmth and subdued tones, while the Strawberry Latte's use of POK elevates its typing feedback to a crisp and vibrant level. Despite the identical bottom housing, it’s evident that the contrasting top materials play a crucial role in shaping each switch's unique auditory and tactile experiences. Thus, while users might find appealing similarities in the bottom sound profiles, the overall differentiation between the switches is marked by their top housings, leading to varied user experiences that cater to different preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Cream Blue switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option that provides a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which makes it more suited for long typing sessions or gaming as it requires less effort to engage. This difference means the Cream Blue is the heavier switch, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Strawberry Latte is the lighter switch, ideal for users who prioritize reduced fatigue during extended use. Thus, users seeking a heavier, more tactile experience would favor the Cream Blue, whereas those desiring a lighter touch would opt for the Strawberry Latte.

Travel distance

When comparing the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, it is evident that they differ in travel distance, with the Cream Blue featuring a travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.6 mm of the Strawberry Latte. This means that the Strawberry Latte switch has a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times. Conversely, the Cream Blue's longer travel distance could provide a more tactile experience for those who appreciate a sense of depth in their keystrokes. As such, users looking for responsiveness might gravitate towards the Strawberry Latte, while those who prefer a more traditional typing feel might choose the Cream Blue. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for either a more abrupt or a more pronounced actuation feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Outemu Cream Blue switch is characterized by a distinct and crisp click when actuated, providing an audible feedback that users often find satisfying during typing. This clicky nature adds a layer of engagement and tactile presence to each keystroke, appealing particularly to those who enjoy a more traditional typing experience reminiscent of older mechanical keyboards. Conversely, the Huano Strawberry Latte switch boasts a balanced sound profile that strikes a middle ground; while it is not silent by any means, it avoids being overly resonant, making it a pleasant option for environments where noise consideration is a factor. This could make the Strawberry Latte more suitable for shared workspaces or for users who prefer a less intrusive auditory experience.

In terms of feel, the Cream Blue’s clicky action can create a somewhat bumpy sensation through the actuation point, which can either enhance the typing experience for those who appreciate tactile feedback or come across as somewhat jarring for others who prefer a smoother ride. The Huano Strawberry Latte switch, on the other hand, is known for its super smooth operation, which can make typing feel effortless and allow for swift key presses, appealing particularly to gamers or those who type often and rapidly. The smoothness of the Strawberry Latte significantly enhances the overall experience, as it minimizes finger fatigue over extended usage.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Cream Blue provides an engaging clicky experience that captures the charm of mechanical keyboards, the Huano Strawberry Latte offers a more subdued yet silky smooth typing experience. When it comes to sound, the Cream Blue leans toward a more pronounced auditory response, perfect for those who appreciate the click, while the Strawberry Latte balances sound with a pleasant resonance. In terms of feel, the Cream Blue is bumpy and clicky, which can be satisfying for some, contrasting with the effortlessly smooth action of the Strawberry Latte. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound and the tactile feedback of clicks or a quieter, smoother experience.

Conclusion

In summary, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the experience you're seeking. If you’re someone who enjoys auditory feedback and a more tactile feel, the Cream Blue, with its medium-heavy actuation force of 65 grams, could be ideal for you. This switch provides a pronounced click sound that adds an engaging element to your typing, but keep in mind that this could be loud and may not be suitable in quiet environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Strawberry Latte, with its lighter 45 grams bottom-out force, is likely to be your best choice. This switch is known for its smooth keystrokes and balanced sound profile, making it excellent for prolonged typing sessions where tactile feedback is less of a priority. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize the tactile feedback and sound of the Cream Blue or the smoothness and subtlety of the Strawberry Latte.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Cream Blue Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Huano Strawberry Latte Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more