Outemu Cream Blue vs. HMX Twilight

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Blue and HMX Twilight each offer unique attributes that cater to different typing preferences. The Cream Blue, a clicky switch, is often favored by typists who enjoy the tactile feedback and distinctive sound that enhances the writing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight is a linear switch, known for its smooth keystrokes and extended 3.85mm travel distance, making it ideal for users seeking a quieter, more fluid typing experience without sacrificing responsiveness. While the Cream Blue switches are perfect for those who thrive on auditory feedback, the Twilight caters to users looking for a more subdued yet reliable feel. 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 Twilight Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Blue and the HMX Twilight, it's notable that both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared material inherently leads to similar acoustic and tactile experiences when typing. Nylon, recognized as a classic switch housing material, provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This characteristic is consistent across both switches, allowing users to expect a comparable auditory experience when using either type.

Though both the Cream Blue and HMX Twilight feature nylon in their construction, the placement of the material in the top and bottom housings can influence the overall typing experience. The bottom housing is particularly significant in determining the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed fully down, while the top housing can affect the sound produced when releasing a key. Because both switches employ nylon for both housings, any differences in typing experience may arise from factors such as switch design or spring characteristics, rather than the material itself.

Ultimately, users of either the Outemu Cream Blue or HMX Twilight will appreciate the benefits that nylon housing brings to the switches. Since both switches utilize the same type of material for their housings, they deliver a remarkably similar aural experience, rich in depth and fullness. Whether at the top or bottom, users can expect the signature soft touch and sound-absorbing qualities that nylon is known for, ensuring a satisfying typing experience across both products despite variations in design and implementation.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch to the HMX Twilight linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Cream Blue requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category, whereas the Twilight features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Twilight significantly lighter, appealing to users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, the Cream Blue's heavier actuation force might attract those who appreciate a more substantial feel and feedback while typing. Thus, selecting between these switches depends largely on personal preference for lighter or heavier resistance during keystrokes.

Travel distance

When comparing the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, the difference in travel distances is notable, as the Cream Blue has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Twilight features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.85 mm. This means the Cream Blue provides a more pronounced keystroke feel, which can be preferable for users who enjoy that tactile depth. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Twilight may appeal to gamers who favor quicker response times, as the reduced distance can lead to faster actuation. While both switches serve different preferences, users who appreciate a more responsive experience may find the Twilight more suited to their needs, while those who prefer a more substantial keystroke can opt for the Cream Blue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches hinges on the user's individual preference for keystroke depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is recognized for its sharp, pronounced clicks that provide an auditory feedback that typifies classic clicky switches. Users often find the sound to be crisp and satisfying, which can enhance typing confidence, especially for those who enjoy the tactile feedback that comes with each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch offers a more subdued sound profile due to its extended 3.85mm travel distance, marking it as a quieter option. While it maintains the clacky characteristics typical of HMX switches, it doesn't produce the same level of audibility as the Cream Blue, making it more suitable for environments where noise control may be a priority.

When it comes to feel, the Cream Blue switch is generally appreciated for its tactile bump and click, which gives users a dynamic typing experience. The feedback is immediate and helps in preventing accidental presses, making it a favorite among typists who prefer a more interactive connection to their keyboard. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight linear switch delivers a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback. This smoothness allows for quicker key presses and can be more comfortable during long typing sessions, appealing to gamers or anyone who prefers a seamless experience without interruptions in their key travel.

In summary, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch offers a distinct auditory and tactile experience with its loud clicks and tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who appreciate a pronounced typing sensation. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch provides a quieter and smoother feel that caters to those who favor minimal interruptions. While these switches cater to different preferences, one can choose based on whether sound or feel is more critical to their typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and specific use cases. If you enjoy a tactile and audible click with each keystroke, and prefer a heavier bottom-out force that offers substantial feedback, then the Cream Blue is an excellent choice, particularly for typing-intensive tasks where you crave that classic mechanical feel. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate the nostalgia of clicky switches, making it perfect for writers or coders who relish the sound and sensation of their typing. On the other hand, if you favor a smoother, quieter typing experience with less actuation effort, the HMX Twilight linear switch is your go-to. Its lighter 50-gram bottom-out force and extended travel distance make it suitable for fast-paced gaming or extended typing sessions where comfort is paramount. Furthermore, the Twilight's subtle sound profile complements a quieter environment, allowing you to focus without distraction. Ultimately, consider your primary activities—whether you lean towards typing or gaming—as well as your sensitivity to sound, to make the choice that suits your style best.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Cream Blue Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Twilight Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more