Outemu Cream Blue vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Blue and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Blue and Jwick Taro stand out as popular options in different categories. The Cream Blue is a clicky switch that offers a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Taro is a tactile switch that provides a comfortable typing experience with a moderate level of tactility. While the Cream Blue excels in producing loud, crisp clacks, the Taro offers a quieter and more subdued typing experience. 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
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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Blue and the Jwick Taro, it is evident that they both use nylon for their bottom housings. This means that typing on both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer nature of nylon. The sound produced by the bottom housing will be duller and rounder, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience when using either the Cream Blue or the Taro in terms of sound profile and overall feel.
However, the main point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their top housing materials. While the Cream Blue features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Taro boasts a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic compared to nylon, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The clear nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the Taro switch.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Cream Blue and the Jwick Taro will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and aesthetic preferences. Those seeking a deeper and fuller sound with a duller and rounder tone may opt for the Cream Blue with its nylon top and bottom housing. On the other hand, users looking for a sharper, higher-pitched sound with clear translucency for RGB lighting effects may find the Taro's polycarbonate top housing more appealing. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different tastes in mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Jwick Taro tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Cream Blue requiring 65 grams and the Taro requiring 67 grams. This means that while the Cream Blue may feel lighter to type on initially, both switches will provide a similar typing experience once the key is fully pressed. In general, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cream Blue switch, while those who enjoy a heavier push feel may opt for the Taro switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is 4 mm, which is slightly longer than the Jwick Taro tactile switch at 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Cream Blue falling on the longer side. Gamers may prefer the Cream Blue for its slightly longer travel distance, offering a bit more depth to each keystroke, while those looking for a faster response time may opt for the Taro with its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 Cream Blue switch is known for its lack of information on this aspect, while the Taro switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that the Taro switch produces a moderate level of sound that is suitable for most typing environments, whether you are a beginner or advanced user. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cream Blue switch does not have any specific information available regarding this quality. On the other hand, the Taro switch is described as having a buttery and stepped feel. The buttery sensation indicates a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, the stepped feel of the Taro switch suggests that it offers a mild tactile feedback with distinct pre-travel and/or post-travel stages within the keystroke.
In conclusion, while the Cream Blue and Taro switches offer different experiences in terms of sound and feel, they both present unique qualities that cater to various preferences. If you prefer a switch with a moderate sound profile and a comfortable typing experience, the Taro switch may be the better option for you. However, if you are looking for a clicky switch with specific sound and feel characteristics, the Cream Blue switch might be worth considering. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a satisfying auditory feedback with each key press and prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Cream Blue switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a comfortable and smooth typing sensation with a medium-heavy bottom out force, along with a subtle tactile bump, then the Taro switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and needs.
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