Outemu Cream Yellow vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Outemu Cream Yellow, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Dustproof Blue, a clicky switch. The Cream Yellow switch is known for its smooth tactile feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience without the need for a click sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue switch offers a tactile bump as well as an audible click, ideal for those who enjoy the satisfying sound of each keystroke. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Outemu Dustproof Blue lies in their top housing materials. The Cream Yellow features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue boasts a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate material's stiffness leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting.
On the other hand, both the Cream Yellow and Dustproof Blue share a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound during typing. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that users will experience a consistent typing feel regardless of the specific switch they choose between the Cream Yellow and Dustproof Blue.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Cream Yellow and Outemu Dustproof Blue ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While the Cream Yellow offers a more muted and deeper typing sound with its nylon top and bottom housings, the Dustproof Blue provides a sharper and crisper sound thanks to its polycarbonate top housing. Ultimately, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience, with the only significant difference being in the top housing material.
Weight
The Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Yellow requires 60 grams while the Dustproof Blue needs 65 grams, making the Dustproof Blue the heavier option in both categories. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, providing a good balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Typists who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Cream Yellow for extended typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience may choose the Dustproof Blue for a firmer push feel. In general, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable choices for different preferences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Cream Yellow offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a good choice for those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue clicky switch provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when deciding which switch to choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Cream Yellow and Dustproof Blue.
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 Yellow tactile switch is known for its quiet operation, making it a great option for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch produces a satisfying click with each keystroke, providing auditory feedback that some users find enjoyable. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can vary based on factors such as the keyboard housing and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch is known for its smooth and responsive keystrokes, offering a comfortable typing experience for long hours of use. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch provides tactile feedback with each keypress, giving typists a sense of assurance that their input has been registered. The clicky nature of the Dustproof Blue switch can also help improve typing accuracy for some users.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy a quieter typing experience with smooth keystrokes, the Cream Yellow may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feel with audible feedback, the Dustproof Blue would be a suitable choice. Keep in mind that trying out both switches in person, if possible, will give you a better understanding of which one suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly lighter touch, the Cream Yellow with its 60-gram bottom out force would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer keystroke, the Dustproof Blue with its 65-gram bottom out force would be more suitable. Additionally, if you enjoy a quieter typing experience, the Cream Yellow may be the better option, while the Dustproof Blue would be more ideal for those who enjoy the audible click sound with each key press. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for key feel and sound, as both switches offer excellent quality and performance.
Mentioned in this article
