Outemu Cream Pink vs. Huano Sakura

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Pink and the Huano Sakura both present intriguing options for users seeking a linear feel, yet they cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Cream Pink stands out for its smooth keystroke without any notable characteristics that define it further, making it a straightforward choice for those who prefer a basic, uninterrupted typing experience. In contrast, the Huano Sakura is celebrated for its feather-light touch and medium acoustics, making it particularly suitable for extended typing sessions where comfort and sound are key considerations. While both switches offer a linear action that eliminates tactile feedback and clicky sounds, the Cherry-like feel of the Sakura may appeal to users who prioritize a quiet but responsive switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Outemu Cream Pink Linear

Huano Sakura Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the Outemu Cream Pink and Huano Sakura switches, it is evident that both share a commonality in their bottom housing material, which is nylon. This material is widely recognized for its ability to deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer nature. Because nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, both switches will provide a duller and rounder auditory experience at the base of the switch. As such, users can expect a consistent sound character when typing, regardless of the switch brand, provided they focus on the typing experience generated by the bottom housing. This shared characteristic suggests that both the Cream Pink and Sakura switches will have a similar acoustic performance in this respect.

However, the switches diverge significantly in their top housing materials. The Cream Pink utilizes a nylon top housing, which again promotes that deeper and fuller sound profile typical of nylon. The softer plastic contributes to a muted auditory experience upon keystroke release. Conversely, the Huano Sakura employs POK (polyketone) material in its top housing, which introduces distinct differences. POK is known for its impressive durability, boasting a wear resistance that is significantly stronger than POM and a shock resistance that greatly surpasses that of nylon. This durability translates into a smoother, clackier sound profile, contrasting with the more subdued auditory experience created by the nylon top of the Cream Pink.

The interaction of these materials plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience. While the Cream Pink's nylon top and bottom housings work in unison to create a cohesive softer sound, the Huano Sakura's top housing diversifies the auditory and tactile feedback due to its POK composition. As a result, while both switches will produce a similar bottom-out sound and feel courtesy of their nylon bottom housings, the Sakura's unique top housing will provide a smoother and more distinct auditory experience during key releases. Thus, when considering these switches, users must weigh the nuances between the two top housing materials in addition to the similarities inherent in their nylon bottom housings.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch to the Huano Sakura linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Cream Pink features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, contributing to a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Sakura offers a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Those who prefer a lighter feel for less fatigue will find the Sakura more appealing, while users who enjoy a firmer touch might lean towards the Cream Pink. Overall, the Sakura is lighter both in actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Cream Pink, offering a distinct typing experience that emphasizes ease of use.

Travel distance

The Outemu Cream Pink linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Huano Sakura linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference suggests that the Cream Pink may provide a more substantial depth when pressed, appealing to those who prefer a hearty and traditional feel in their typing experience. In contrast, the Sakura's shorter travel distance could be more favorable for gamers or fast typists seeking quicker response times, as the reduced distance allows for faster key actuation. Ultimately, individuals who prefer more responsiveness will likely gravitate toward the Sakura switch, while those who enjoy a deeper, more tactile experience might opt for the Cream Pink switch. Thus, if you favor a solid depth, the Cream Pink is the longer option at 4 mm, whereas the Sakura is the shorter one at 3.6 mm.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch does not have a specific characteristic that stands out, which could suggest a more neutral or unremarkable auditory profile. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura linear switch features medium acoustics, providing a balanced auditory experience suitable for prolonged typing. This difference means that the Sakura switch may deliver a slightly more pleasant auditory feedback during use, although both will ultimately be influenced by the type of keyboard, mounting style, and keycap materials you choose.

In terms of feel, the Cream Pink switch lacks a defined description, making its tactile response a bit of an unknown, whereas the Sakura switch is renowned for its feather-light touch. This suggests that the Sakura switch may provide a much lighter typing experience, reducing fatigue during extended sessions, while the feel of the Cream Pink remains uncertain, leaving room for personal preference in terms of a linear switch.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch does not stand out in terms of sound or feel, the Huano Sakura linear switch excels with its medium acoustics and remarkably light touch. If you are looking for a switch that enhances your typing experience with better auditory and tactile feedback, the Sakura may be the preferable choice. If you choose the Cream Pink, you might experience similar results in terms of basic functionality, but you would potentially miss the refined qualities offered by the Sakura. Ultimately, the decision will hinge on your personal preferences for sound and tactile response.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Cream Pink and the Huano Sakura switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a bottom-out force of 65 grams, the Cream Pink may be the better choice for you. This can provide a satisfying resistance that some typists appreciate, especially if you find yourself frequently bottoming out. However, if lightness and comfort are what you seek, especially for extended typing sessions, the Huano Sakura with its feather-light touch and a lower bottom-out force of 45 grams would be more suitable. The Sakura switches also provide medium acoustics, allowing for a pleasant typing experience without being overly noisy. Additionally, the Cream Pink will lend a different tactile feel compared to the Sakura's snappy response, so consider which feels more natural to you in day-to-day use. Ultimately, your typing style, the weight you prefer, and how long you'll be at the keyboard will guide you in making the perfect choice between these two options.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Cream Pink Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Huano Sakura Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more