Outemu Cream Blue vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Blue and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Blue and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer distinct experiences for users. The Cream Blue is a clicky switch, known for its tactile feedback and audible sound when typing. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° from Gateron is a linear switch that prioritizes silent typing with its smooth and stable keystrokes. Both switches have their advantages; the Cream Blue provides a satisfying click for those who enjoy auditory feedback, while the Zero Degree 0° offers a quiet typing experience ideal for shared workspaces or late-night gaming sessions. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Blue and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This means that both switches will offer users a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of a switch, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either the Cream Blue or the Zero Degree 0°.
On the other hand, the top housing materials of the Cream Blue and the Zero Degree 0° differ, with the Cream Blue featuring a nylon top housing and the Zero Degree 0° utilizing a polycarbonate top housing. The Cream Blue's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound profile, while the Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting effects, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the switch. Users looking for a switch with a brighter, more resonant sound may prefer the Zero Degree 0°, while those seeking a softer, deeper sound may lean towards the Cream Blue.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Cream Blue and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetic preferences. Both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, with the Cream Blue providing a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon top and bottom housings, while the Zero Degree 0° offers a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Whether users prioritize sound quality, tactile feedback, or visual appeal, both switches present compelling options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch with 45 grams, making the Cream Blue the heavier option between the two. The Cream Blue also has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Zero Degree 0° bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Cream Blue switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile response. On the other hand, the lighter actuation force of the Zero Degree 0° switch may appeal to those who type for longer periods of time and prefer a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Cream Blue has a slightly longer travel distance than the Zero Degree 0° switch. The Cream Blue's 4 mm travel distance is closer to the traditional distance, while the 3.6 mm distance of the Zero Degree 0° switch is shallower. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Zero Degree 0° switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Cream Blue switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is known for its sharp and clicky noise that is satisfying to many typists. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is renowned for its silent typing experience, thanks to its innovative design that absorbs sound and reduces noise. The Cream Blue will provide a more audible typing experience, while the Zero Degree 0° will cater to those who prefer a quieter environment for typing.
In terms of feel, the Cream Blue switch offers a tactile bump and feedback with each keystroke, providing a distinct sensation for typists who enjoy the tactile experience. Meanwhile, the Zero Degree 0° linear switch offers a smooth and consistent typing experience without any tactile bump, allowing for faster and more efficient typing for those who prefer a linear feel. The Cream Blue will offer a more tactile typing experience, while the Zero Degree 0° will provide a smoother and more consistent feel.
Overall, choosing between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch ultimately depends on personal preference. If you enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience with audible feedback, the Cream Blue is the way to go. However, if you prefer a quieter typing environment with a smooth and linear typing feel, the Zero Degree 0° may be the better choice for you. Remember that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so it's important to consider all aspects when making your decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you should choose the Cream Blue if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a clicky typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Zero Degree 0° if you want a smooth, stable, and silent typing experience with Gateron's innovative self-padding design. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize clicky feedback or silent operation in your mechanical keyboard.
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