Outemu Cream Pink vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Pink and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Pink and the Kailh Plum offer unique experiences for users. The Cream Pink is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and lack of tactile feedback, providing a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Plum is a tactile switch that offers a distinctive feel with its weighty keystrokes and subtle tactile bump. While the Cream Pink is favored for its smoothness, the Plum stands out for its unique tactile sensation. If you prioritize consistency and smoothness in your typing experience, the Cream Pink may be the right choice for you. However, if you enjoy a tactile response with a unique tactile bump, the Plum could be more appealing. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the Outemu Cream Pink and the Kailh Plum lies in their top housing materials. The Cream Pink utilizes nylon, which is known for creating a softer and duller sound profile due to its ability to absorb more sound. On the other hand, the Plum features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials have their own unique characteristics, the choice between the two would depend on the desired sound experience for the user.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Cream Pink and the Plum use nylon. This means that typing on switches that use either of these switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In this aspect, both switches would provide a similar typing experience, with the material of the bottom housing playing a significant role in the overall sound produced.
Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Pink and the Kailh Plum play a crucial role in determining the sound profile of the switches. While the Cream Pink's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, the Plum's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. However, since both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, there will be similarities in the typing experience in terms of sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference regarding the desired sound profile.
Weight
The Outemu Cream Pink linear switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, making it lighter in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke compared to the Kailh Plum tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Cream Pink also has a bottom out force of 65 grams, slightly lighter than the Plum's bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the Plum switch requires a heavier force to fully press the key down. Both switches fall under the medium-heavy category, but the Cream Pink may offer a slightly lighter typing experience overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch is 4 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Cream Pink has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Plum. A 0.4 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall typing experience for individuals who are sensitive to key travel distances. Those who prefer a deeper, more substantial key press may lean towards the Cream Pink, while those who prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for quicker response times may prefer the Plum. However, both switches fall within a similar range of travel distances, so the difference may not be noticeable to all users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Cream Pink comes in at $3.10, whereas the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25.
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 Pink linear switch is known for providing a quiet typing experience with a lack of audible tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a neutral sound profile that is enjoyable and not overly loud. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience in terms of sound, with the Cream Pink being more on the quieter side and the Plum providing a neutral and satisfying sound.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch is known for its smooth keystrokes without any tactile feedback or resistance. In contrast, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a unique tactile experience with a hefty feel but a surprisingly subtle tactile bump. This combination of weightiness and mild tactility sets the Plum apart from other tactile switches, providing a typing experience that is different and intriguing. The Cream Pink offers a straightforward linear feel, while the Plum gives a more complex and layered tactile experience that appeals to those seeking something out of the ordinary.
In conclusion, the Outemu Cream Pink and Kailh Plum switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Pink provides a quiet and smooth linear typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a simple and straightforward switch. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch offers a unique tactile feel with a moderate sound profile, appealing to users who enjoy a mix of weightiness and subtle tactile feedback. Depending on your preferences, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit in different ways. Whether you choose the Cream Pink for its simplicity or the Plum for its unique tactile feel, you can expect similar levels of quality and performance from both switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch or the Kailh Plum tactile switch, you should opt for the Cream Pink if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a linear switch. The Cream Pink is a great choice for those who prefer a smooth typing experience without any tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom out force and a unique tactile feel, the Kailh Plum switch would be more suitable for you. The Plum's combination of weightiness without a pronounced tactile bump sets it apart from other tactile switches, making it a great option for those looking for something different. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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