Outemu Cream Blue vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Blue and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Cream Blue, a clicky switch, with the Gazzew U4Tx, a tactile switch, it becomes apparent that both have unique qualities to offer. The Cream Blue is best known for its clicky sound as you type, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the U4Tx stands out for marrying the best of both worlds by combining a deep, resonant "thock" while bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out experience, creating a luxurious typing sensation. The Cream Blue is categorized as a clicky switch, known for its distinctive sound, while the U4Tx falls into the tactile category, offering a more refined and muted 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
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Cream Blue and the Gazzew U4Tx both offer a rich and deep sound profile due to their softness. However, the Cream Blue's nylon top and bottom housings create a duller and rounder sound compared to the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend. While both materials absorb sound well, the Cream Blue's nylon is known for its classic switch housing material, while the U4Tx's boba plastic blend is a unique and proprietary material.
The nylon top housing of the Cream Blue and the Gazzew U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend both provide a deeper and fuller sound profile. The Cream Blue's nylon top housing is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a rounder sound when compared to the U4Tx's boba plastic blend. This difference in materials gives users the option to choose a switch housing based on their preference for sound and feel. Both materials excel in delivering a rich sound profile, but the Cream Blue's nylon housing may be preferred by those looking for a softer typing experience.
In terms of sound impact, the bottom housing of a switch has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when keys are released. The Cream Blue's nylon bottom housing and the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing maintain their softness to deliver a rich and deep sound experience. Despite slight differences in sound characteristics, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and typing experience from both of these high-quality switch housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is evident that the Cream Blue is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 50 grams, while the U4Tx has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Cream Blue at 65 grams and the U4Tx at 62.5 grams. The Cream Blue provides a medium-heavy typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a bit more resistance, whereas the U4Tx offers a medium force level. Ultimately, for those who like a lighter typing experience for extended use, the Cream Blue may be the better choice, while those who prefer a slightly heavier feel may opt for the U4Tx.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Cream Blue has a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more substantial depth when pressing the key compared to the U4Tx. For gamers looking for faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the U4Tx may be preferred. However, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Cream Blue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Cream Blue comes in at $3.10, whereas the Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50.
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 Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is known for its loud and clicky noise with each key press. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offers a more refined and sophisticated sound profile, characterized by a deep "thock" when bottoming out and a quiet topping out noise. The U4Tx switches provide a bassy sound with a muted undertone, creating a more pleasant auditory experience compared to the Cream Blue.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Cream Blue switch provides a tactile bump that is sharp and prominent, giving a satisfying feedback with each keystroke. The Gazzew U4Tx, on the other hand, offers a tactile bump that is also sharp but with a more refined and subtle feel. This allows for a luxurious typing experience with a crisp tactile feedback that is distinct with every keypress.
Overall, if you prefer a loud and clicky sound with a sharp tactile feel, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is the way to go. However, if you are looking for a more refined sound profile with a sophisticated tactile feel, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch would be the better choice. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard case, plate, and keycaps, so experimentation may be necessary to achieve your desired typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a clicky switch, the Cream Blue may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you seek a medium bottom out force and enjoy a tactile typing experience with a refined sound profile, the U4Tx is the way to go. The U4Tx switches offer a unique blend of deep, bassy sound and sharp, satisfying tactility, providing a luxurious typing experience that's as acoustically pleasing as it is tactile. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. Choose wisely to enhance your overall typing experience.
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