Outemu Cream Pink vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Cream Pink and the HMX Sunset Gleam are two linear switches that cater to different preferences and gaming styles. The Cream Pink switch is emerging as a popular choice for those seeking a smooth and consistent keystroke, though it lacks a widely recognized standout feature. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, is celebrated for its distinguished materials that provide a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack, alongside HMX's reputable factory lube, enhancing the overall typing experience. While both switches embrace the linear category, each offers unique attributes that might appeal to different users—be it the Cream Pink’s straightforward linear action or the delightful feedback of the Sunset Gleam. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.

By the numbers

Outemu Cream Pink Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When examining the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Pink and the HMX Sunset Gleam, notable differences emerge in the composition of their top housings, affecting both acoustics and aesthetics. The Cream Pink uses a nylon top housing, known for its softer plastic properties, which lend a deeper and fuller sound profile. This quality of nylon helps absorb sound, giving the typing experience a rounded feel that contrasts with the sharper response typically produced by harder plastics. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a clearer, crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This material is also advantageous for users who prioritize RGB lighting effects, as its translucency enhances the visual appeal of illumination beneath the switches.

While the top housings of the two switches differ significantly in their acoustic characteristics, the bottom housings of both the Cream Pink and Sunset Gleam utilize nylon. This shared material results in a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches when bottoming out, making tactile feedback similar regardless of the top housing's contrasting sound qualities. The deeper response attributed to the nylon materials in the bottom housing serves to unify the overall typing experience, contributing to a rounder sound when the keys are pressed down irrespective of the different top materials.

Consequently, both switches showcase the interplay between their different top and bottom housing materials, emphasizing how distinct top housings can affect sound upon release, while a shared bottom housing material enhances uniformity in typing feedback. Users can expect the Outemu Cream Pink to provide a more muted and controlled auditory response, whereas the Sunset Gleam will deliver an elevated and resonant sound. Despite these differences in the upper housings, the consistent use of nylon in the bottoms ensures that both switches maintain a pleasing sensation when pressed, facilitating user comfort and a satisfying overall experience.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch with the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Cream Pink requires a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the lighter Sunset Gleam, which only needs 42 grams. This makes the Cream Pink more suitable for users who prefer a stronger typing experience, as it offers a more substantial feel with its heavier force. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Cream Pink is also greater at 65 grams, while the Sunset Gleam bottoms out at 48 grams. Consequently, those who favor a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or gaming will find the HMX Sunset Gleam more appealing due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. In summary, the Outemu Cream Pink provides a medium-heavy sensation, making it ideal for users who enjoy a firmer push, whereas the lighter HMX Sunset Gleam caters to those who prioritize a softer keystroke experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we find distinct differences that cater to varying preferences among users. The Cream Pink has a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional standard and provides a more pronounced feel with deeper key presses. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, appealing to those who favor quicker response times, often preferred by gamers. Consequently, if you are seeking a more responsive typing experience, the HMX Sunset Gleam would be the better choice, while the Outemu Cream Pink would be ideal for those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke. Thus, the Cream Pink is the longer switch at 4 mm, while the Sunset Gleam is the shorter option at 3.5 mm.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Outemu Cream Pink linear switch remains somewhat of an enigma in terms of sound, as there is no definitive description available. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam is recognized for its satisfying auditory profile, characterized by a subtle top-out and an appealing clack sound. This pleasing acoustic quality can enhance the overall typing experience, making it an attractive option for those who appreciate sound feedback from their switches. It's important to remember that the sound can be influenced by various factors, including the choice of keyboard and keycap materials, so individual experiences may vary.

When it comes to feel, the Cream Pink switch has an undefined characteristic, leaving a gap in information about its tactile response. However, the Sunset Gleam offers a well-rounded experience, resulting from HMX’s careful curation of materials and factory lube application. This attention to detail typically provides a smooth keystroke and satisfying feel, perfect for long typing sessions or gaming. Although the specific tactile feedback of the Cream Pink is unknown, users seeking a linear switch can expect a similar experience in smoothness with both switches, albeit with potentially different nuances.

Overall, while the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch lacks specific descriptors for both sound and feel, the HMX Sunset Gleam offers a more defined auditory experience and a well-lubed, pleasant feel. If sound is a key factor in your decision-making, the Sunset Gleam will be more appealing due to its satisfying clack and smooth operation. Those interested in linear switches should consider the Sweet spot provided by the Sunset Gleam, while keeping in mind that the Cream Pink may still offer a relatively smooth experience even if its qualities are less well-defined.

Conclusion

To sum up, choosing between the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy actuation force, which provides a more tactile resistance as you type, the Cream Pink might be the better option for you. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who enjoy a more deliberate keypress and require some feedback from the switch without any added noise or distractions. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch and a smoother experience, the HMX Sunset Gleam could be your ideal choice. This switch not only offers a satisfying sound profile with a gentle clack but also features superior factory lubrication, which enhances the overall glide and responsiveness during typing. In essence, if you're looking for a refined experience with nuanced sound and feel, the Sunset Gleam shines through as a remarkable choice. Ultimately, your decision should circle back to what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your unique typing style and environment.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Cream Pink Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more