Outemu Cream Yellow vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Outemu Silver offer distinct options for users seeking different typing experiences. The Cream Yellow switch is a tactile switch, providing a satisfying bump feedback with each key press, while the Silver switch is a linear switch, offering a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback. The Cream Yellow switch is popular among typists who prefer a more tactile feel and feedback when typing, making it ideal for those who enjoy precision and accuracy in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Silver switch is preferred by users who prioritize speed and smoothness in their typing experience, making it a great choice for fast-paced typing or gaming. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Outemu Silver, it is clear that the Cream Yellow utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Silver boasts a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The Cream Yellow's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the Silver's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. This contrast in materials results in distinct sound profiles for each switch, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
While both the Cream Yellow and Silver feature a nylon bottom housing, their top housing materials differ significantly. The Cream Yellow's nylon bottom housing, like its top housing, contributes to a deeper and fuller typing sound due to its softer composition. In comparison, the Silver's nylon bottom housing provides a similar typing experience to the Cream Yellow, as nylon is known for its sound-absorbing properties and ability to create a rounder sound profile. Despite the differences in their top housing materials, the similarity in their bottom housing materials ensures a consistent sound profile for both switches while typing.
The impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience is significant, as each housing material brings unique qualities to the sound profile of the switch. The split of qualities between the top and bottom housings means that the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This distinction is evident in the Outemu Cream Yellow and Silver switches, with their differing housing materials creating distinct typing experiences that cater to varying preferences in sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials will depend on the desired sound profile and typing sensation for the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that users can expect a similar amount of force needed to initiate a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Yellow requires 60 grams of force, while the Silver requires 65 grams. This makes the Cream Yellow a lighter option in terms of bottom out force, which may appeal to users looking for a slightly softer typing experience. The Silver, on the other hand, offers a heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a firmer press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference for typing style and desired key feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Cream Yellow has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Silver's 4 mm. This means that the Cream Yellow provides a quicker response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for speed and efficiency in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Silver switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding responsiveness and key feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
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 Silver.
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 Cream Yellow tactile switch is known for providing a soft and quiet typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more discreet keyboard. On the other hand, the Silver linear switch is known for having a smooth and consistent keystroke without the tactile bump, resulting in a quieter typing sound compared to tactile switches. However, the actual sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard case material and keycap material used.
In regards to feel, the Cream Yellow tactile switch is praised for its tactile bump that provides feedback to the typist's fingers, allowing for a more satisfying typing experience. On the flip side, the Silver linear switch is recognized for its smooth keystroke without a tactile bump, offering a more fluid and uninterrupted typing feel. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences, catering to different preferences based on whether tactile feedback is desired or not.
Overall, when comparing the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, it is important to consider the individual's preference for typing sound and feel. The Cream Yellow offers a quieter typing experience with tactile feedback, while the Silver provides a smoother keystroke without the tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and typing style, but both switches are designed to deliver reliable performance in different scenarios.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch or the Outemu Silver linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams and a tactile bump for added feedback, the Cream Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams and a smooth linear feel, the Silver switch might be more suitable for your typing needs. Consider how you value feedback, force required for typing, sound, and feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics, so it's important to choose based on what will enhance your typing experience the most.
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