Outemu Cream Blue vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Blue and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Blue and the HMX Swift offer unique experiences for users. The Cream Blue is a clicky switch, characterized by its satisfying audible click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Swift is a linear switch, known for its smooth and quiet operation. While the Cream Blue offers a tactile and audible feedback that some users prefer for typing, the Swift provides a more subtle and seamless typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
42g
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
3.90 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 extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Blue and the HMX Swift, both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound quality that is favored by many keyboard enthusiasts. With both switches using the same housing material, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, despite both switches utilizing nylon for their housing materials, there may be subtle differences in the overall typing experience. The way the housing is designed and manufactured can impact how the sound and feel of the switch is perceived. For example, the shape and thickness of the housing, as well as any additional features such as dampening materials, can all play a role in how the switch performs. While both the Cream Blue and Swift may offer a comparable typing experience, these subtle design differences can still result in unique characteristics for each switch.
Ultimately, when considering the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Blue and the HMX Swift, it's important to note that while both switches use nylon for their housings, the overall typing experience can be influenced by various factors. Users may find that one switch offers a slightly deeper or fuller sound profile compared to the other, or that the tactile feel differs slightly between the two. By experimenting with different switches and paying attention to these nuanced differences, keyboard enthusiasts can find the perfect switch that suits their preferences and typing style.
Weight
Comparing the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, we see a notable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cream Blue has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Swift's lighter 42 grams. Similarly, the Cream Blue has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Swift requires only 50 grams to bottom out. This means that the Cream Blue switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier feel, while the Swift switch offers a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. The difference in weight between these two switches allows for users to choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience. If the actuation and bottom out forces were the same, users would get similar results in terms of typing feel and overall performance.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is 4 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with 4.0mm being the most common. Gamers may lean towards the shorter 3.9 mm option for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Cream Blue with a 4 mm travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift 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 does not have a specific descriptor provided, making it difficult to directly compare to the HMX Swift's "clacky" sound profile. Without a descriptor, it is challenging to determine the exact sound characteristics of the Cream Blue switch in comparison with the Swift. However, it is important to note that sound is subjective and can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Cream Blue switch also lacks a provided descriptor, making it hard to directly compare to the Swift's "easy-to-press," "feathery," "bouncy," and "creamy" qualities. Without specific information on the feel of the Cream Blue switch, it is not possible to contrast it with the Swift's attributes. The feel of a switch is crucial in determining the overall typing experience, and factors such as actuation force, key travel, and tactile feedback can greatly impact user preference.
In conclusion, without detailed information on the sound and feel characteristics of the Outemu Cream Blue switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison with the HMX Swift switch. While the Cream Blue switch lacks specific descriptors, the Swift switch is known for its deep sound profile and smooth feel. If the Cream Blue switch were to have similar qualities, one could expect a potentially satisfying typing experience with a unique auditory and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a satisfying clicky sound, the Outemu Cream Blue switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a silky smooth feel and deep sound profile, the HMX Swift switch is the way to go. Consider your preference for typing experience, actuation force, sound signature, and overall feel when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, the Outemu Cream Blue and HMX Swift switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that best suits your needs and enhances your typing experience.
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