Outemu Cream Pink vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Pink and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, many users find themselves torn between options like the Outemu Cream Pink and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, both linear switches known for their unique characteristics. The Cream Pink switch, while it lacks a standout reputation, is designed to provide a smooth and consistent keystroke, making it a reliable choice for typists who prioritize fluidity and responsiveness. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is specifically engineered to offer an ultra-quiet typing experience, akin to the serene ambiance of raindrops softly pattering against a window. With its thoughtfully balanced 53g bottom-out force, the Silent Sakura is ideal for users who seek a tactile yet unobtrusive feel, perfect for quiet environments like offices or shared spaces. Both switches have their merits depending on user preference, but beyond these generalities, let’s dive in a bit deeper to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Pink switches and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, it is noteworthy that both utilize nylon for their top housings. This shared material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known to be a softer plastic that effectively absorbs sound. This quality results in a duller yet rounder auditory experience during typing, making both switches appealing for users who appreciate a softer acoustic feedback while typing. Thus, the consistent use of nylon in the top housing features of both switches ensures that users will enjoy a similar sound quality when pressing down on these keys.
Contrastingly, the bottom housings of the two switches differ significantly; the Cream Pink utilizes nylon, while the Silent Sakura - 53g incorporates polycarbonate. This distinction plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience, as the nylon bottom housing of the Cream Pink will contribute to a more muffled and muted bottom-out sound, aligning with its top housing characteristics. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Sakura introduces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. The polycarbonate's rigidity leads to a more resonant auditory experience, which can be particularly enjoyable for users who prefer a ringing feedback when bottoming out.
In essence, combining the differences in the bottom housings leads to varied experiences in nuance, sound, and feedback. The Cream Pink’s nylon bottom enhances the warm, rounded acoustics initiated by its nylon top, while the Silent Sakura’s polycarbonate bottom injects sharpness and clarity into its overall sound profile. However, both switches will continue to exhibit similar outcomes in terms of softness in sound due to their common nylon top housing, ensuring that users of either switch revel in satisfying tactile feedback and robust auditory experiences when depressing the keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, distinct differences emerge. The Cream Pink has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, appealing more to users who prioritize comfort for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. Therefore, the Cream Pink is the heavier switch overall, while the Silent Sakura is the lighter option. While both may offer a satisfying typing experience, the different actuation and bottom out forces cater to varying preferences and usage scenarios.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch have an identical travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users will experience the same distance when pressing down on either switch. This similarity ensures that typing and gaming experiences will feel consistent regardless of which switch is being used, allowing for seamless transitions between keyboards equipped with these switches. Since both switches share this travel distance, they contribute to a comparable tactile feedback and keypress experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Sakura - 53g for $2.99.
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
In the realm of sound, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch leaves a blank canvas, with no distinctive auditory characteristics noted, which can lead to a muted and subtle typing experience. In stark contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch excels in providing a near-silent operation that evokes the gentle auditory imagery of raindrops falling upon a window. The Silent Sakura's design minimizes keystroke noise, making it an attractive option for those who desire a more discreet typing environment, whether in an office or a shared space.
When it comes to feel, the Cream Pink switch remains undefined in its tactile characteristics, leaving potential users to experience an unpredictable sensation with their typing. However, the Silent Sakura switch boasts a perfectly balanced 53g bottom-out force, delivering a light yet satisfying keystroke that many typists find appealing. This combination provides a smooth actuation with just enough resistance to avoid accidental keystrokes, making it particularly suitable for prolonged typing sessions without compromising comfort.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch lacks specified qualities, it may provide a more neutral typing experience, often appealing to users who prioritize minimal feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g guarantees a whisper-quiet and comfortable experience, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a harmonious balance of softness and efficacy. Ultimately, your specific preferences in sound and feel will guide your selection between these switches.
Conclusion
To wrap up, choosing between the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you prefer a medium-heavy feel with a bottom-out force of 65 grams, the Cream Pink is an excellent choice. Its sturdiness can provide satisfying feedback for those who enjoy a bit more resistance while typing, making it well-suited for more aggressive typing styles or gaming applications where precision is key. On the other hand, if you value a quieter typing experience, especially in shared spaces or during late-night sessions, the Silent Sakura - 53g would be the better option. Its 53-gram bottom-out force offers a lighter touch that is gentle on your fingers while still providing a satisfying keystroke. Thus, the choice between these switches hinges on your individual needs for sound level, feel, and typing style. By understanding how each switch's characteristics align with your preferences, you can make a more informed decision that enhances your overall keyboard experience.
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