Outemu Cream Pink vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Cream Pink and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, both of which are linear switches. The Cream Pink switch is known for its smooth keystrokes, providing a seamless and consistent feel that can enhance typing speed and accuracy for those who prefer a straightforward typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is designed for users who seek a whisper-quiet environment, making it an ideal choice for office settings or shared spaces, thanks to its ultra-light 43g actuation force that caters to light typists. While both switches offer a linear experience, the choice between them ultimately depends on whether you prioritize a smooth, traditional feel or a quieter typing experience that subtly blends into your surroundings. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Cream Pink Linear

HMX Silent Sakura - 43g Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Pink and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches, it is essential to note that both switches utilize nylon for their top housing. This shared choice of material contributes to a consistent sound profile that is characterized by a deeper and fuller auditory experience. The nylon's softer plastic composition aids in sound absorption, which results in a duller and rounder sound profile when typing. As a result, users of both switches can expect similar acoustic characteristics during operation, making them ideal for those seeking a more muted typing sound, regardless of the specific switch they choose.

However, the bottom housing materials of the two switches present a stark contrast. The Outemu Cream Pink switches continue the use of nylon in the bottom housing, echoing the properties of the nylon top housing and reinforcing the deeper sound profile. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g features polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer plastic nature. This difference means that the Silent Sakura switch will likely deliver a more resonant sound upon bottoming out, while the Cream Pink will maintain the rounder sound quality throughout the keystroke.

Overall, the combination of materials impacts the overall typing experience significantly. While both switches exhibit similar sound characteristics due to their nylon top housings, the differences in the bottom housing material lead to distinct results. The Cream Pink's consistent nylon housings ensure a unified sound experience, while the Silent Sakura's polycarbonate bottom offers a contrasting clarity that enhances the upper-end frequencies of the keystroke. Users will perceive these distinctions in sound and feel, particularly in the bottom-out sound, illustrating how the interplay between housing materials can shape the overall typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cream Pink switch features a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, contrasted with the much lighter 37 grams of the Silent Sakura. This means that the Cream Pink switch requires more force to initiate a keystroke, making it suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the Cream Pink also leads with 65 grams compared to the Silent Sakura's 43 grams, confirming it as a heavier option overall. For typists who favor lighter switches for extended periods of typing or gaming sessions, the Silent Sakura would be a better fit. In summary, the Outemu Cream Pink is the heavier switch with a firmer typing experience, while the HMX Silent Sakura is the lighter, more nimble choice for those who prefer ease and less resistance in their keystrokes.

Travel distance

Both the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch feature the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on either switch, as the distance from the top to the bottom when actuating the key is identical. Consequently, if you are accustomed to one of these switches, transitioning to the other will likely yield comparable results in terms of key feel and performance, making them interchangeable for users who prioritize consistent travel distance in their typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch does not have a notable auditory characteristic attributed to it. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch is recognized for its whisper-quiet operation, which offers a typing experience akin to gentle raindrops falling against a window. This distinct noise profile makes the Silent Sakura a compelling choice for those who prioritize a serene environment, especially in shared spaces or during late-night typing sessions. However, it's important to remember that the final sound produced can vary based on the keyboard's construction, the choice of keycaps, and even the typing technique used.

Regarding feel, the Outemu Cream Pink switch lacks a specific defining feature, making it harder to gauge its tactile feedback. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g switch is engineered to provide a very light touch with a bottom-out force of just 43g, making it exceptionally suitable for typists who prefer a softer typing experience. This lightweight characteristic allows for quicker keystrokes and less finger fatigue, which many may find advantageous, especially during extended typing sessions.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Cream Pink may not possess defining sound or feel qualities that stand out, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch makes a strong impression through its quiet operation and light touch. If you're searching for a switch that prioritizes a tranquil typing experience and ease of use, the Silent Sakura may be more to your liking. However, if you are open to experimenting, you might find that the Cream Pink can still deliver a satisfying experience, albeit with less distinct feedback and sound. Ultimately, both options cater to different preferences, ensuring that there's something for everyone in the realm of linear switches.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a more substantial keystroke with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams, the Cream Pink may be your ideal switch, particularly if you enjoy a solid tactile feedback while typing. This can be gratifying for those who type vigorously and don’t mind some noise, as it generally does not prioritize sound dampening. Conversely, if you’re in need of a quieter typing experience, whether for use in shared spaces or simply to create a more serene environment, the Silent Sakura - 43g is specifically designed for that purpose, providing a soft and gentle touch with its lighter 43-gram bottom-out force. This makes it an excellent choice for light typists or anyone who may type for extended periods and prefers a less fatiguing experience. Ultimately, your decision should align with your typing style and the context in which you’ll be using your keyboard, ensuring that you create the most comfortable and satisfying typing environment for yourself.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Cream Pink Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Silent Sakura - 43g Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more