Outemu Cream Yellow vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Yellow and Outemu Red offer distinct typing experiences to cater to different preferences. The Cream Yellow is a tactile switch that provides feedback with a slight bump upon actuation, making it ideal for typists who enjoy a tactile response while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Red is a linear switch with a smooth keystroke that appeals to users who prefer a consistent feel without any tactile feedback. Both switches have their own strengths and weaknesses, with the Cream Yellow offering a satisfying tactile sensation and the Red providing a more seamless typing experience. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Both the Outemu Cream Yellow and Red switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. However, the Cream Yellow differs in its top housing material, which is also made of nylon, while the Red features a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Red switch creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Cream Yellow, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Outemu Red switch allows for a translucent housing, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. This gives the Red switch an advantage in terms of customization and visual appeal compared to the Cream Yellow switch, which features a solid nylon top housing. While both switches offer similar qualities in terms of their nylon bottom housing, the difference in top housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile and aesthetics.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Cream Yellow and Red switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and visual customization. The Cream Yellow offers a deep and dull sound profile with its nylon top and bottom housing, while the Red provides a crisper and more resonant sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Both switches are well-suited for different preferences and uses, offering unique qualities that cater to a variety of typing experiences.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, it is clear that both switches fall into the medium weight category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Red has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. While the actuation force of the Cream Yellow is slightly lighter than the Red, the bottom out force is also lighter. This makes the Cream Yellow slightly more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Red offers a slightly heavier push feel, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide a balanced medium weight option, with slight differences in actuation and bottom out forces that may cater to individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Red linear switch has a longer travel distance than the Cream Yellow tactile switch. The Cream Yellow's 3.3 mm travel distance offers a slightly shorter keypress compared to the Red switch's 4 mm travel distance. For those who prefer a faster response time, the Cream Yellow may be the better option due to its shorter travel distance. However, if you enjoy a more substantial keypress with more depth, the Red switch with its longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and typing style.
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 Red.
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 often said to produce a softer and more muffled sound compared to the Outemu Red linear switch, which tends to have a crisper and brighter sound due to the lack of tactile feedback. However, the actual sound produced by either switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard case material and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch is known for providing a subtle tactile bump that gives a satisfying feedback to the typist, while the Outemu Red linear switch is renowned for its smooth and consistent keystrokes without any tactile feedback. The Cream Yellow may offer a more pronounced typing experience with its tactile bump, while the Red provides a more fluid typing experience without any interruptions.
Overall, when considering the sound and feel of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy a softer, more tactile typing experience, the Cream Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more consistent typing experience, the Red may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on the user's preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, you should consider your preference in feel and sound. If you prefer a tactile response and a quieter sound, the Cream Yellow may be the better choice for you. The Cream Yellow’s medium bottom out force of 60 grams provides a satisfying tactile feedback without being too heavy. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, linear feel with a medium bottom out force, the Red switch may suit you better. The Red switch is known for its consistent keystrokes and can be a good option for gamers or typists looking for a linear switch. Ultimately, the decision between the Cream Yellow and Red switches will come down to your personal preference in feel and sound.
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