Outemu Cream Blue vs. Bsun Tomcat
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Blue and the Bsun Tomcat switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch for your typing and gaming experience, the Outemu Cream Blue and Bsun Tomcat switches present two distinct options catering to different preferences. The Cream Blue is a clicky switch known for its tactile feedback and audible click, providing a satisfying response that many typists and gamers enjoy, especially when they appreciate the audible confirmation of their keystrokes. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat is a linear switch renowned for its smooth keystrokes, featuring Ly stems that eliminate any tactile bump or click, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a seamless and noiseless typing experience. While the Cream Blue is likely to appeal to users who thrive on auditory cues, the Tomcat will attract those who enjoy fluidity and a quieter work environment. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
54g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Blue and the Bsun Tomcat switches, a clear distinction arises between their top and bottom housings. The Cream Blue's top housing is crafted from nylon, known for its softer composition, which imparts a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This acoustic quality is particularly characterized by the material's ability to absorb sound, creating a duller, rounder output. In contrast, the Tomcat features a polycarbonate top housing, a material that is stiffer and thus produces a sharper, more resonant sound. This difference not only alters the auditory experience but also affects the overall aesthetic appeal, as polycarbonate’s translucency enhances RGB lighting effects, lending a vibrant visual element to the switch.
On the other hand, both switches share the same bottom housing material—nylon—resulting in a unified auditory characteristic in this regard. The nylon bottom of both the Cream Blue and Tomcat contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is particularly noticeable during the bottom-out phase of keystrokes. Neither switch differentiates itself sonically in this area, as both utilize the same material to achieve that classic “thock” sound favored by many keyboard enthusiasts. This dual usage of nylon in the bottom housing means that the tactile feel and sound signature during bottoming out will remain consistent across both models, although the top housing does influence the overall typing experience significantly.
Consequently, the differing top housing materials create a contrast in the audible experience while typing. Users will find that the nylon top of the Cream Blue aims for a muted yet richer sound, which caters to those who prefer a more subdued experience, while the Tomcat's polycarbonate top offers crisper and brighter tones, ideal for users seeking clarity in their keystrokes. Therefore, while the two switches share similarities in their bottom housing, their unique top housing materials provide distinct sound profiles and overall experiences that cater to different user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch to the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that can influence the typing experience. The Cream Blue features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, ideal for those who prefer a firmer typing experience. In contrast, the Tomcat has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, placing it in the medium-light range. As a result, users who favor a lighter switch for extended typing sessions may find the Tomcat more comfortable, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel might gravitate towards the Cream Blue. Overall, the difference in weight suggests the Cream Blue will require more effort to press, making it the heavier option, whereas the Tomcat is the lighter choice for smoother keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, the Cream Blue has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Tomcat measures at 3.6 mm. This makes the Cream Blue the longer option, which may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Tomcat can provide a quicker response time, making it potentially more suitable for gamers who favor rapid key presses. Ultimately, if you enjoy a deeper engagement with your keystrokes, the Cream Blue's 4 mm travel will deliver that feel, whereas the Tomcat's 3.6 mm travel aims for a snappier and more efficient performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Cream Blue comes in at $3.10, whereas the Bsun Tomcat comes in at $2.99.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, it's clear that each switch offers a distinct auditory experience. The Cream Blue is often praised for its classic clicky sound, providing an audible feedback that many typists find satisfying. This clicky action can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy clear, tactile cues. On the other hand, the Tomcat switch delivers a smoother, more resonant sound profile characterized by its linear design. This results in a quieter typing experience that some users may prefer, especially in shared environments. It's important to note that the overall sound will also depend significantly on the keyboard's design and the material of the keycaps used.
Looking at the feel of each switch, the Cream Blue is known for its tactile bump and click, giving a pronounced feedback that is ideal for typists who crave an engaging interaction with their keyboard. This can lead to a more satisfying and confident typing experience. In contrast, the Tomcat's linear nature, featuring Ly stems known for their smooth action, provides a completely different tactile sensation. The lack of a tactile bump allows for seamless key travel, making it a favorite among gamers who favor swift key presses without any interruption. While the feel between the two is quite different, both can deliver a rewarding experience depending on personal preference.
Considering both sound and feel, the Outemu Cream Blue and Bsun Tomcat switches cater to differing typing styles and user preferences. The Cream Blue's clicky sound and tactile feedback invite users who appreciate the traditional mechanical keyboard experience, whereas the Tomcat's smooth and quiet operation aligns with those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you value auditory feedback and tactile response or a smooth and silent key action. Exploring these subjective qualities will help you identify which switch resonates more with your personal typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, consider your typing preferences and what environment you'll be using your keyboard in. If you enjoy a tactile feedback and the auditory satisfaction of a click with each keystroke, the Cream Blue may be your ideal choice, particularly if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, which delivers a more deliberate typing experience. This switch is well-suited for environments where sound can be tolerated and might even enhance your typing rhythm. On the other hand, if you value a smooth, linear feel and a quieter typing experience, the Bsun Tomcat switch is likely the better option for you. With a lighter bottom out force and a focus on a sleek feel, the Tomcat allows for rapid typing without the noise of a click, making it a fantastic choice for both gaming scenarios and workspaces where silence is golden. Ultimately, your decision should revolve around whether you prioritize that satisfying click and heft of the Cream Blue or the fluid and whisper-soft action of the Tomcat.
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