Outemu Cream Yellow vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Kailh Plum are two options that stand out in the tactile switch category. The cream yellow is best known for its smooth and satisfying typing experience, with a focus on providing a consistent tactile feedback without the loud clack of other switches. On the other hand, the Plum switches offer a unique feel with their heftiness and subtle tactile bump, making them a great choice for those who prefer a more subtle tactile feedback. While the Cream Yellow is categorized as smooth, the Plum falls into the neutral, mild, stepped category. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
The housing materials of the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Kailh Plum switches have some key differences. The Cream Yellow features a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Plum switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and clear translucency, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the Cream Yellow's nylon top housing tends to produce a duller and rounder sound compared to the more resonant and clear sound of the Plum's polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Cream Yellow and the Plum switches feature a nylon bottom housing. This material, known for its softness and sound-absorbing properties, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. As a result, the bottom-out sound and feel of both switches are influenced by the nylon bottom housing, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of sound quality. Despite having different top housings, the similar nylon bottom housing in both switches results in comparable characteristics in terms of sound profile and typing experience.
Overall, while the Cream Yellow and the Kailh Plum switches differ in their top housing materials, they share a common nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deep and full sound profile. The Cream Yellow's nylon top housing offers a duller and rounder sound due to its softer composition, while the Plum's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and clearer sound profile. Despite these differences, the common nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience with both switches, emphasizing the importance of housing materials in determining sound characteristics and overall typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, one can see some noticeable differences. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. In contrast, the Plum has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy. The Cream Yellow would be considered the lighter option between the two, making it ideal for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Plum offers a heavier push feel, which may appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing sensation. Both switches provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, allowing individuals to choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the Kailh Plum tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may be noticeable to some users. Those who prefer a more abrupt feel may opt for the Cream Yellow, while those who prefer a bit more depth in the keystroke may lean towards the Plum. Overall, both switches offer a similar experience due to their relatively close travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Cream Yellow comes in at $3.10, whereas the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25.
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 Outemu Cream Yellow switch is known for its smooth and consistent feel, making it great for long typing sessions or gaming. In terms of sound, the Cream Yellow switch produces a satisfying and quiet sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch offers a unique feel with its hefty build but subtle tactile bump, providing a tactile typing experience without being too overwhelming. The Plum switch has a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for various use cases.
When it comes to feel, the Cream Yellow switch offers a comfortable typing experience with its smooth tactile bump. The Plum switch, on the other hand, features a mild and stepped tactile feel, providing a gentle typing experience with distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations. Overall, both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Cream Yellow switch focusing on smoothness and consistency, while the Plum switch provides a more substantial feel with a moderate tactile bump.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Cream Yellow and Kailh Plum switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cream Yellow switch is best suited for those who value a smooth and consistent typing experience with a quiet sound profile. On the other hand, the Plum switch caters to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a unique tactile sensation and a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for feel and sound, but either option will provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch or the Kailh Plum tactile switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force and tactile bump intensity. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams and a more traditional tactile bump, the Cream Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams and a unique tactile feel with a moderate bump, the Plum could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing style, preferences, and intended use for the keyboard.
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