Outemu Cream Blue vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Blue and the HMX Sunset Gleam present two contrasting choices that cater to different typing preferences and experiences. The Outemu Cream Blue, recognized for its distinct clicky feedback, offers an auditory and tactile experience that many typists find satisfying, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a pronounced sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, a linear switch known for its smooth and quiet operation, is designed for users who prefer a seamless typing experience with minimal resistance, making it ideal for rapid input and gaming. While the Cream Blue excels in providing a nostalgic typing feel with its satisfying clack, the Sunset Gleam boasts impressive build quality, subtle top-out, and excellent factory lubrication for a luxurious touch. 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

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Outemu Cream Blue and HMX Sunset Gleam switches utilize different materials for their top housings, which significantly affects their sound profiles. The Cream Blue features a nylon top housing, renowned for its softer texture and sound-absorbing properties. This results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing, giving the switch a muted and warm profile. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam uses a polycarbonate top housing that generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This material not only produces a more resonant sound but also enhances the switch's compatibility with RGB lighting, allowing light to shine through effectively, which can further attract users looking for visually appealing setups.

When we examine the bottom housings of both switches, we find them to be identical, as both utilize nylon as their material. This results in a consistent typing experience for both models, as the qualities of the nylon composition contribute to a duller and rounder sound profile when bottoming out. The deeper sound that nylon inherently produces is conveyed through both switches, ensuring that users will experience a similar feel and acoustic feedback when pressing the keys down. This consistency in bottom housing material reinforces a warm auditory experience, regardless of the differences in the top constructions.

Overall, while the top housings of the Outemu Cream Blue and HMX Sunset Gleam switches offer distinct auditory qualities due to their differing materials, the bottom housings equalize some of these differences. With both employing nylon for the bottom housing, users will experience a harmonious feel and sound at the bottom-out point of the keystroke. Thus, while the switches exhibit varying sound characteristics due to their tops, the combined influence of the nylon bottoms ensures that both switches deliver substantial depth in sound, creating a cohesive experience for those who prioritize a richer auditory feedback.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cream Blue requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This makes the Sunset Gleam a better option for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue, while the Cream Blue will provide a more substantial feel due to its heavier forces, appealing to those who enjoy a firmer typing experience. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter switch, the Sunset Gleam is the clear choice, while the Cream Blue may be preferable for those who favor a heavier push feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, there is a notable difference worth considering. The Cream Blue boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option of the two and ideal for those who favor a more pronounced key press. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times. While the shorter travel can provide a more responsive typing experience, some users might find it feels too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference: the Cream Blue offers a hearty depth for those who appreciate tactile feedback, whereas the Sunset Gleam caters to those who favor a swifter, more agile feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch produces a distinct and pronounced sound profile characterized by its satisfying click, which many users find energizing and engaging while typing. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch offers a more subdued auditory experience with its smooth operation and subtle top-out sound. While the Cream Blue’s clicking noise can be quite loud and attention-grabbing, the Sunset Gleam's sound is designed to be less intrusive, allowing for a quieter typing experience without sacrificing feel, making it a solid choice for those in shared environments.

When it comes to feel, the Cream Blue switches provide a tactile sensation coupled with their clicky action, delivering clear feedback that can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy a more interactive connection with their keyboard. The HMX Sunset Gleam, however, emphasizes a smooth linear feel without the tactile bump or click, allowing for fluid keystrokes and bursts of speed during typing or gaming sessions. This focus on smoothness in the Sunset Gleam makes it ideal for those who prefer a more seamless experience where the keys glide effortlessly under their fingers.

In summary, choosing between the Outemu Cream Blue and the HMX Sunset Gleam switch ultimately boils down to personal preference regarding sound and feel. The Cream Blue offers a lively clicky experience that keeps you engaged with a pronounced auditory feedback, while the Sunset Gleam caters to users seeking a smooth, quieter operation with linear characteristics. Depending on your workspace and typing style, both switches can deliver enjoyable experiences, whether you prioritize audible feedback or a more understated performance.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preference and intended use. If you enjoy tactile feedback and auditory cues while typing—characteristics epitomized by the Cream Blue's medium-heavy 65-gram bottom-out force—you might find it ideal for typing purposes, especially if you appreciate a pronounced click sound that can enhance your writing experience. This switch is well-suited for those who type a lot and savor the satisfying engagement of each key press. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, quieter operation for gaming or extended typing sessions where you want to minimize finger fatigue, the Sunset Gleam with its lighter 48-gram bottom-out force is the way to go. With a more subdued feel and sound thanks to its linear design, it provides a serene typing experience, making it perfect for rapid key presses in fast-paced gaming or comfortable all-day use without the distraction of clicks. In summary, consider your typing style, the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard, and whether you value sound and tactile feedback over a smoother, quieter operation when deciding between these two switches.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Cream Blue Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more