Outemu Cream Pink vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Pink and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Cream Pink and the Durock Piano mechanical keyboard switches, you may find yourself facing a tough decision. The Cream Pink is a linear switch known for its smooth typing experience. It is categorized as 'classic', while the Piano, on the other hand, stands out for its smooth typing experience thanks to its proprietary material blend. The Piano is categorized as ['bassy', 'frictionless', 'silky']. Both switches have their own unique advantages that may appeal to different preferences. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Cream Pink and the Durock Piano switches differ in terms of their composition. The Cream Pink features a nylon top housing, while the Piano utilizes a proprietary POM blend top housing. Both materials are known for offering a deep and satisfying sound profile, with the nylon top housing producing a fuller sound due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the POM blend top housing of the Piano switch is described as providing a uniquely deep sound profile, though the exact details of the blend remain unknown.
In addition to their top housings, the bottom housing materials of the Cream Pink and the Piano switches also differ. The Cream Pink's bottom housing is made of nylon, similar to its top housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The Piano switch, however, uses a proprietary POM blend for its bottom housing, which contributes to the switch's uniquely satisfying sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, while the POM blend likely provides a different texture and feel to the typing experience.
When comparing the overall sound and feel of the two switches, the different housing materials play a significant role in shaping the typing experience. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel of each keystroke, while the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both the Cream Pink and the Piano switches aim to provide a satisfying and deep sound profile to enhance the typing experience for users. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of sound quality, albeit achieved through the use of different housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch offer some interesting comparisons and contrasts. The Cream Pink has a lighter actuation force at 50 grams compared to the Piano, which does not have a specified actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Cream Pink at 65 grams and the Piano at 63.5 grams, making them both fall into the medium-heavy category. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cream Pink may be the better option due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Piano may appeal to those looking for a slightly stronger push feel without sacrificing too much in terms of weight. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience a consistent amount of travel distance. The equal travel distance of both switches ensures that users will get similar results in terms of keypress feel and overall typing experience. Whether using the Outemu Cream Pink or the Durock Piano, users can expect a smooth and consistent keypress with a 4 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
The Outemu Cream Pink 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 Durock Piano linear switch is best known for its deep and rich bassy sound profile, providing a pleasant auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch is not particularly known for any specific sound qualities, so it may not offer the same level of satisfying sound as the Piano switch. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Piano linear switch stands out for its frictionless and silky typing experience, offering an extremely smooth and effortless key press with minimal resistance or friction. This results in a fluid and enjoyable typing feel that enhances the overall user experience. In comparison, the Outemu Cream Pink switch does not have any specific descriptors for feel, so it may not provide the same level of smoothness and comfort that the Piano switch offers.
In conclusion, the Durock Piano linear switch excels in both sound and feel with its deep, bassy sound profile and frictionless, silky typing experience. While the Outemu Cream Pink switch may not have specific standout qualities in these areas, it still offers a solid linear typing experience that may be comparable to the Piano switch for those looking for a more budget-friendly option. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you are looking for a slightly heavier bottom out force and are not particular about sound, the Cream Pink might be the right choice for you. However, if you prioritize a smoother and more pleasant typing experience with a deep, creamy sound profile, the Durock Piano switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you value the typing feel, sound, and overall experience of using the keyboard switch.
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