Outemu Cream Pink vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Cream Pink and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offer distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Cream Pink, often appealing to those who enjoy a soft, unobtrusive key feel, may not boast a standout feature but is favored for its reliability and consistent performance. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) is recognized for its unique Ly stems, which provide a remarkably smooth typing experience and a resonant sound profile that can enhance auditory satisfaction while typing. Both switches are linear, meaning they lack the tactile bump found in other types, but their individual characteristics cater to different types of users—whether you seek a straightforward yet dependable typing experience or a more refined and engaging sensation with each keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.

By the numbers

Outemu Cream Pink Linear

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$3.10 per 10

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

The Outemu Cream Pink and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches utilize different materials for their top housing, which drastically influences their sound characteristics. The Cream Pink features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer and more absorbent properties. This allows for a sound that is less harsh and more rounded when typing. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) opts for a polycarbonate top housing, which is notably stiffer, producing a sharper and crisper auditory experience. Consequently, the distinction in materials leads to differing tonal qualities; users seeking a warmer, muted typing sound may prefer the Cream Pink, while those who favor clarity and brightness might lean towards the Tomcat (Heavy).

In terms of bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, resulting in a consistent acoustic quality that aligns with the traditional attributes of nylon. This means that typing on either switch delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile from the bottom housing, characteristic of nylon's ability to absorb sound and reduce sharpness. Although the top housings differ significantly in composition, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that the fundamental dampening and sound absorption characteristic of nylon will remain present in both models. As such, regardless of the distinct sound profiles attributed to their top housings, the presence of nylon on the bottom guarantees a familiarity in the typing experience governed by this softer material.

The contrast between the top housings of the Cream Pink and Tomcat (Heavy) ultimately signifies that the overall sound experience of each switch will be a blend of both materials’ effects. While the nylon bottom housing promotes a rounded sound characteristic, the distinctiveness of the top housing materials—nylon for the Cream Pink and polycarbonate for the Tomcat—creates a split in how sound and feedback are perceived during typing. For individuals who prioritize specific tonal qualities, understanding these differences in top housing materials becomes crucial; however, the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing assures users that they will still encounter a certain level of dampening and depth in the sound of both switches. Thus, while their sound profiles differ, the shared characteristics of the nylon bottom housing create some uniformity in the user experience.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams to the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, which features a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, we observe that both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, but they offer different tactile experiences. The Cream Pink is the lighter option overall, with a lower actuation force that can facilitate longer typing sessions, making it suitable for extended use at work or during lengthy gaming bouts. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) provides a firmer push, appealing to users who prefer a more pronounced feedback when typing or gaming. Despite the Tomcat's higher actuation force, its bottom out force is slightly lower than that of the Cream Pink, allowing it to offer a more controlled experience at the key's full travel. Overall, choosing between these two switches will come down to individual preferences for either a lighter or heavier feel, as each offers a unique balance of actuation and bottom out force for different typing experiences.

Travel distance

The Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch exhibit distinct travel distances, with the Cream Pink measuring 4 mm and the Tomcat (Heavy) at 3.6 mm. This 0.4 mm difference means that the Cream Pink offers a more traditional and deeper key press, which some users might find more satisfying for tactile feedback. Conversely, the Tomcat (Heavy), with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers or those seeking quicker response times, making it feel more abrupt and responsive during use. For those who prefer a more hearty depth in their typing experience, the Outemu Cream Pink would be the more suitable choice, while the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) suits users focused on speed and efficiency in their keystrokes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch has no specific notable qualities, making it a neutral choice in terms of auditory feedback. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch stands out with its resonant sound profile, which can enhance the overall typing experience for users who appreciate an audible component to their keystrokes. It's important to note that the sound characteristics of both switches may also be influenced by the type of keyboard they are paired with, as well as the keycaps used.

Regarding the feel of the switches, the Cream Pink linear switch does not have particularly distinguished tactile feedback, which means it tends to provide a straightforward linear experience with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch is highlighted for its Ly stems, which contribute to a super smooth typing experience. This smoothness can greatly enhance the overall satisfaction while typing, especially for those who prioritize a seamless keystroke without any bump or scratchiness.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Cream Pink lacks notable sound and feel characteristics, making it a neutral choice, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offers a more pronounced auditory experience and an exceptionally smooth typing feel thanks to its unique stem design. For newcomers, choosing between these switches may largely depend on their personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback; if smoothness and some auditory presence are key requirements, the Tomcat (Heavy) would certainly be the better option, while the Cream Pink provides a more subdued, linear experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, your choice should reflect both your typing preferences and the type of experience you’re looking for. If you favor a smooth typing feel and a resonant sound profile that enhances your overall typing experience, the Tomcat (Heavy) may be your best bet. Its 64g bottom out force provides just the right amount of resistance for those who prefer a moderately heavy switch but still want a buttery smooth action thanks to the Ly stems. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher actuation force at 65g and lean towards a more standard linear switch experience without any standout features, the Cream Pink might suit your needs. This switch is ideal if you're looking for reliable performance without any particular emphasis on sound signature or typing feedback. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prioritize smoothness and sound (Tomcat Heavy) or a straightforward linear typing feel (Cream Pink).

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Cream Pink Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more