Outemu Cream Yellow vs. HMX Perky

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Cream Yellow and the HMX Perky represent two distinct yet compelling options catering to different user preferences. The Cream Yellow, a tactile switch, is designed for those who enjoy a noticeable bump during key presses, providing satisfying feedback that can enhance typing accuracy and enhance the overall experience for typists and gamers alike. In contrast, the HMX Perky, known for its softer and glittery nylon housings, offers a linear switch experience that prioritizes smoothness and quick actuation, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming or a more fluid typing experience with a condensed travel distance. Each switch brings its own unique set of benefits; while the Cream Yellow excels in offering tactile feedback, the Perky shines in delivering a satisfying and seamless press. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Cream Yellow Tactile

HMX Perky Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Outemu Cream Yellow and the HMX Perky both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, thus sharing a common material that contributes to their overall acoustic and tactile performance. Nylon, being a classic choice in the realm of switch housings, helps in achieving a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material's properties allow it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a more rounded and dulled auditory experience. As a result, users can expect similar auditory feedback and typing feel from both switches, engendering a satisfying and muted soundscape when engaged in typing activities.

Despite the shared use of nylon in their housing, the Cream Yellow and Perky switches may differ in specific design features beyond material, which could influence overall switch performance. Each switch's design may affect how the nylon behaves during actuation and bottoming out. Moreover, if either of these switches were to introduce slight variances in internal components or spring mechanisms, this could lead to subtle distinctions in feel and responsiveness, even though the core sound characteristics would remain similar due to the identical housing material. Ultimately, the impact of these design elements becomes notable during actual use.

Users can anticipate that the nylon properties present in both models will yield a similar typing experience, reinforcing the auditory attributes that enhance typing comfort. The qualities of the nylon in the top housing will predominantly influence the sound produced when releasing keys, while the bottom housing’s characteristics will affect the sound and feel when keys are pressed down. Therefore, both models will likely stand out for their consistent sound behavior and tactile experience, appealing to users who prioritize a fuller sound and a pleasing typing feel in their mechanical keyboards.

Weight

The Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch present distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varied user preferences. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which positions it as a medium-weight option. In contrast, the Perky boasts a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the lighter choice overall. This difference means that users who favor lighter switches, like those wishing to type for extended periods without fatigue, might find the Perky more appealing. Conversely, the Cream Yellow's slightly heavier forces could provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer feedback and a firmer feel when pressing keys. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference regarding the desired tactile experience and force feedback.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, it is clear that they diverge slightly in their measurements. The Cream Yellow has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Perky extends to 3.4 mm. This means that the Perky switch provides a longer travel experience, which may appeal to those who favor a more pronounced keypress for a sense of depth. Conversely, the shorter travel distance of the Cream Yellow offers a more responsive feel, making it an attractive option for gamers who prioritize quick key activation. Overall, if you're looking for a slightly longer, more traditional feel, the HMX Perky is the preferable choice, whereas the Outemu Cream Yellow offers a more immediate, tactile sensation due to its shorter travel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Cream Yellow's acoustic profile remains undefined, which leaves its auditory characteristics open to interpretation depending on the build configuration chosen. On the other hand, the HMX Perky linear switch presents a satisfying sound experience, though specific descriptions are not provided. It’s important to note that a switch's sound can be influenced significantly by the type of keyboard it’s mounted on and the keycaps used. Therefore, while the Perky is suggested to deliver a deeper auditory satisfaction, the actual sound produced by the Cream Yellow may vary widely based on customizable setups.

Regarding feel, the Cream Yellow lacks specific descriptors, making it harder to assess its tactile characteristics. Conversely, the HMX Perky switch is noted for its neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience, complemented by a softer, glittery nylon housing that suggests a smooth and comfortable keystroke. The Perky's design implies a pleasant tactile feedback and a shorter travel distance, which could enable quicker actuation and a touch of responsiveness that some typists might prefer. Without detailed insights into the feel of the Cream Yellow, it remains difficult to make a direct comparison on this aspect.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Cream Yellow lacks detailed subjective qualities, the HMX Perky linear switch stands out for its soft, satisfying typing experience and shorter travel distance. Potential users of the Cream Yellow should consider their keyboard build and personal preferences to assess their experience, while those leaning toward the Perky can expect a neutral, enjoyable feel that enhances their typing efficiency. Ultimately, much of the sensory experience will hinge on individual configurations and personal preferences, leading to a degree of variability in results for both switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, your choice between the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch will largely hinge on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a balance of feedback and resistance while typing, the Cream Yellow with its medium 60-gram bottom-out force may be more suitable for you. It offers a tactile experience that can enhance your typing accuracy, making it ideal for those who enjoy a bit of resistance and prefer a traditional yet satisfying feel in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you lean towards a smoother, lighter touch, the Perky switch could be your go-to. With a 50-gram bottom-out force and shorter travel distance, it provides a swift and effortless typing experience that is particularly appealing for fast typists or gamers looking for quick key presses. The softer nylon housing also adds to the overall comfort and sound profile, making it a joy to use for extended periods. In closing, consider what feels right in your hands and what typing experience you seek, whether it's the tactile feedback of the Cream Yellow or the smooth ease of the Perky.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Cream Yellow Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Perky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more