Outemu Cream Yellow vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Outemu Phoenix. The Cream Yellow is a tactile switch known for its smooth feel, making it a favorite among typists and gamers alike. On the other hand, the Phoenix is a clicky switch that stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, providing a unique and satisfying sound profile. While the Cream Yellow offers a comfortable typing experience, the Phoenix delivers a distinctive crunchy and polished feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Outemu Phoenix, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles based on the properties of their respective materials. The Cream Yellow, with its nylon top and bottom housings, provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Phoenix, featuring polycarbonate top and bottom housings, produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the Cream Yellow leans towards a duller and rounder sound, while the Phoenix delivers a more clear and resonant sound.
Despite the differences in sound profiles between the Cream Yellow and the Phoenix, both switches exhibit qualities that can enhance the typing experience. The Cream Yellow's nylon housing creates a more subdued and mellow typing sound, ideal for those looking for a quieter switch option. In contrast, the Phoenix's polycarbonate housing produces a more vibrant and crisp typing sound, perfect for users who prefer a more pronounced keypress feedback. Whether you prefer a softer, deeper sound or a sharper, crisper sound, both the Cream Yellow and the Phoenix offer unique benefits based on their housing materials.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Outemu Phoenix boils down to personal preference in typing experience. While the Cream Yellow offers a softer and fuller sound due to its nylon housing, the Phoenix provides a sharper and clearer sound thanks to its polycarbonate housing. Both switches are designed to enhance the sound profile of typing, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prioritize a deeper, rounder sound or a crisper, resonant sound, the housing materials of the Cream Yellow and Phoenix play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Cream Yellow at 60 grams and the Phoenix at 62 grams. This means that while the Cream Yellow requires less force to initiate a keystroke, both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the force needed to fully press down the key. Some users may prefer the Cream Yellow for its lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Phoenix for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is the same at 3.3 mm. Both switches offer a consistent travel distance from the top to the bottom, providing a similar typing experience in terms of keypress depth. This means that whether you choose the Cream Yellow or the Phoenix, you can expect to get similar results when it comes to the feel of the keypress. In conclusion, both switches offer a comfortable and uniform travel distance, making them a reliable choice for users looking for a consistent typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Cream Yellow comes in at $3.10, whereas the Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15.
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
The Cream Yellow and Phoenix switches both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Yellow switch is known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump without the loud click sound commonly associated with clicky switches. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch stands out for its under-skirt click mechanism, offering a distinct clicking sound reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. This makes the Phoenix switch ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing.
In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switch provides a smooth typing experience, with a tactile bump that enhances keypress accuracy. In comparison, the Phoenix switch is described as having a polished feel, resulting in reduced friction and smoother key travel. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, with the Cream Yellow focusing on tactile feedback and the Phoenix emphasizing smoothness and refinement.
When considering all the available information, it is clear that the Cream Yellow and Phoenix switches cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Cream Yellow excels in tactile feedback without the loud click noise, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch offers a unique and satisfying click sound paired with a polished feel, appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback and smooth key travel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, you should consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a smooth and refined keypress with a medium bottom out force, the Cream Yellow may be the best option for you. However, if you are looking for a unique and satisfying clicky switch with a slightly higher bottom out force, the Phoenix would be the ideal choice. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific feel and sound profile you are seeking in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose wisely based on what will enhance your typing experience the most.
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