Outemu Cream Pink vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Pink and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves comparing the Outemu Cream Pink and the HMX SU, both linear switches that deliver distinct experiences. The Cream Pink, while best known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation, is a popular choice among gamers and typists seeking a quiet and seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX SU stands out with its robust full PA12 housing and T5 stem, which not only offers a satisfying tactile feel but also delivers a subtle, deep sound profile, making it ideal for those who appreciate auditory feedback. While both switches cater to similar preferences for linear actuation, they each have unique characteristics that appeal to different users. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Cream Pink and the HMX SU both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, making them similar in terms of materials and the sound profiles they produce. Nylon's inherent properties—being a softer plastic—allow these switches to provide a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The absorption characteristics of nylon dampen harsher noises, contributing to a rounder and more pleasant auditory experience. This means that regardless of whether one prefers the Cream Pink or the HMX SU, users can expect a comparably smooth and muted sound profile resulting from the nylon material utilized in both switches.
While the two switches share the same materials in their housings, the overall typing experience can still differ slightly due to design aspects beyond the materials themselves. The dynamics of how each switch is constructed—such as the spring tension, stem design, or other internal components—can influence the tactile feedback and bottom-out sound. Consequently, users may perceive subtle variances in their typing experience, even if the base material properties are unified. This emphasizes the importance of not only material composition but also the specifics of the switch architecture and its interaction with the housing materials.
Ultimately, since both the Outemu Cream Pink and the HMX SU employ nylon for both the top and bottom housings, the shared material allows for a fundamental similarity in sound and response. Users who prioritize a typing experience characterized by subdued sound profiles and soft feedback can find satisfaction in either switch. When both are examined under the same lens of material composition, one can surmise that they are likely to produce very similar auditory results during use, grounded in the shared acoustic and tactile traits imparted by the nylon housings.
Weight
The Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Cream Pink features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while the HMX SU offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference indicates that the SU switch is more suited for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, as its lighter actuation force allows for easier keystrokes and less fatigue. In contrast, the Cream Pink provides a firmer push, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel with each keystroke. Ultimately, those who favor a lightweight switch will find the HMX SU more attractive, whereas users seeking a heavier push experience might lean towards the Cream Pink.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, the Cream Pink switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the SU switch has a shorter distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Cream Pink offers a deeper press, providing a more substantial tactile feedback which could be preferred by users who appreciate a hearty depth when typing. On the other hand, the HMX SU's shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm may appeal to gamers and users seeking quicker response times, as the reduced distance can lead to faster actuation. Essentially, if you favor a more traditional switching feel, the Outemu Cream Pink is the preferable option; however, for enhanced responsiveness, the HMX SU is the better choice given its shallower profile.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 notably quiet, delivering a smooth and unobtrusive typing experience. This characteristic can make it suitable for environments where noise considerations are important. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch features a subtle and relatively deep sound profile, attributed to its PA12 housing and T5 stem. While the SU is designed to strike a balance between auditory feedback and stealth, the Cream Pink's sound is more muted, allowing for a more leisurely typist experience. Ultimately, the specific sound profile of each switch can be influenced by the keyboard they are paired with, alongside the choice of keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Cream Pink switch is recognized for its smooth linear actuation, providing an effortless keypress without any tactile bump or resistance. This makes it ideal for those who favor a sleek typing experience, as it allows for rapid and fluid keystrokes. On the other hand, the HMX SU switch also offers a smooth linear feel but may provide a slightly different engagement owing to its construction, which could result in a differing tactile sensation. Both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, promising consistent actuation without tactile interruptions, but with nuanced differences that may appeal to varying preferences.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Cream Pink and HMX SU linear switches cater to users looking for a smooth, linear typing experience. While the Cream Pink is quiet and unobtrusive, the HMX SU provides a deeper sound profile alongside a similarly smooth feel. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on personal preference regarding sound depth and the specific keyboard context in which you plan to use them. Both switches offer distinct qualities, ensuring that you can achieve a satisfying typing experience regardless of which you choose.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, your preferences and typing style will play a critical role in your final choice. If you prefer a medium-heavy tactile experience with a higher bottom-out force of 65 grams, the Cream Pink may be the right fit for you. This makes it suitable for typists who enjoy a bit more resistance while typing, thereby reducing the likelihood of accidental key presses. However, if you favor a lighter touch and quicker actuation with a bottom-out force of only 50 grams, the HMX SU switch would be a better match. Its full PA12 housing and T5 stem provide a unique sound profile and a smoother typing experience that might appeal to those who enjoy a more subtle and deep acoustic presence. In essence, if you value a more robust feel with a bit more resistance, go for the Cream Pink; but if you're leaning towards a lighter switch with a pleasing sound, the HMX SU is undoubtedly the way to go. Ultimately, the right choice will reflect your personal typing preferences and the type of sound profile you enjoy most.
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