Outemu Cream Pink vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Pink and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Cream Pink, a linear switch, and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, also a linear switch, it's important to note their distinct characteristics. The Cream Pink, while lacking a specific standout feature, falls under the category of normal switches. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black is praised for its silent nature, making it ideal for environments requiring quiet typing. This switch offers a smooth, plush bottom-out feel with minimal sound feedback, categorized as silky, muted, polished. Both switches have their own unique selling points, catering to different preferences and needs. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Cream Pink and the Gateron Silent Ink Black are both geared towards enhancing the sound profile of the switches. The Cream Pink's nylon top housing produces a deep and full sound, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top housing creates a more pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. While both materials aim to enhance sound, they offer different profiles that cater to varying preferences.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches feature housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile. The Cream Pink's nylon bottom housing also absorbs sound and creates a duller, rounder sound when typing. Similarly, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing adds to the high-pitched and clacky sound profile of the switch. Despite their differences, both bottom housings play a significant role in shaping the overall sound experience of the switches.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the switches, it's important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings are distributed differently. Pressing down on a switch will emphasize the qualities of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the sound when releasing a key is influenced more by the top housing. While the Cream Pink and Silent Ink Black may have different housing materials, they ultimately provide similar results in terms of enhancing the sound experience of the switches.
Weight
The Outemu Cream Pink linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, which has an actuation force of 60 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Cream Pink requiring 65 grams and the Silent Ink Black requiring 70 grams. This means that while the Cream Pink will feel lighter to type on initially, both switches will provide a similar typing experience once fully pressed. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Cream Pink may be the better choice, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Silent Ink Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it is apparent that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a smooth and linear typing experience without any tactile feedback, making them ideal choices for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Overall, the travel distance of these switches is identical, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of key feel and performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 Outemu Cream Pink linear switch is known for being quiet. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is specifically designed to provide a muted typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a softer and quieter sound profile. The Cream Pink offers a standard typing sound, while the Silent Ink Black aims to minimize noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making it a suitable choice for environments where noise level is a concern.
Moving on to feel, the Cream Pink linear switch doesn't have any specific qualities highlighted. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is praised for its silky smooth typing experience. This switch offers a pillow-like bottom-out feel with minimal resistance, enhancing the overall smoothness and comfort during typing. Additionally, the Silent Ink Black is noted for its polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel, further contributing to a refined typing experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offer different experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the Cream Pink provides a quiet typing experience without specific highlighted feel qualities, the Silent Ink Black is designed for a muted sound profile and a silky smooth typing feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and typing experience, either of these switches can be a great choice to enhance your mechanical keyboard setup. It's essential to consider all available information, including switch characteristics and personal preferences, to make an informed decision on the ideal switch for your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a medium-heavy linear switch with a smooth typing experience and minimal noise, you may prefer the Outemu Cream Pink. However, if you need a quieter typing environment with a cushioned bottom-out feel and a silky smooth typing experience, the Gateron Silent Ink Black might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound level, and bottom-out force. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different typing needs, so consider these factors carefully before making your selection.
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