Outemu Cream Yellow vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Gateron Quinn mechanical keyboard switches, you are faced with two tactile options that offer unique qualities. The Cream Yellow is best known for its [], while the Quinn switches stand out for their crisp tactility and deep, resonant sound profile. The Cream Yellow switch is categorized as [], while the Quinn switch is described as ['Snappy', 'Bassy', 'Polished', 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Accented', 'Buttery', 'Creamy', 'Low-pitched', 'Resonant']. Each switch provides a different typing experience, with the Cream Yellow offering a smooth tactile bump and the Quinn delivering a distinctive sound with each keystroke. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Gateron Quinn share the use of nylon as their housing material. This classic switch housing material is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches provide a duller and rounder sound experience, making them ideal choices for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
In terms of their top housing, both the Cream Yellow and the Quinn exhibit similar characteristics when it comes to sound production. The nylon top housing of these switches contributes to the overall sound profile by creating a deeper and fuller sound. This is due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a more muted and rounded sound profile. Whether typing on the Cream Yellow or the Quinn, users can expect a consistent sound experience from the top housing of these switches.
While the top housing of the Cream Yellow and the Quinn may provide similar sound profiles, the differences lie in their bottom housing. The bottom housing of a switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed. Each switch's unique bottom housing material may affect the overall typing experience, with the Cream Yellow and the Quinn offering distinct qualities in this regard. However, the common use of nylon in both switches ensures that users will still achieve a similar level of sound absorption and a quieter typing experience overall.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is evident that the Cream Yellow is lighter in both aspects. The Cream Yellow requires 45 grams of actuation force and 60 grams of bottom out force, while the Quinn needs 59 grams of actuation force and 67 grams of bottom out force. Both switches fall within the medium range, with the Quinn leaning towards medium-heavy. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Cream Yellow make it a more suitable option for those looking for a softer typing experience, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the heavier forces of the Quinn provide a more substantial push feel, catering to users who prefer a more pronounced typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of force required for optimal use.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their faster response times. However, the Cream Yellow offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those seeking an even quicker response. On the other hand, the Quinn switch provides a slightly deeper press, which some users may find more satisfying for typing or other tasks that require a more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
The Outemu Cream Yellow comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 and Gateron Quinn switches offer distinct qualities when it comes to sound. The Cream Yellow's sound profile is best known for its neutral and subtle nature, providing a quiet typing experience ideal for those who prefer minimal noise. In contrast, the Quinn switches produce a deep and resonant sound with each key press, creating a rich and immersive auditory experience that adds character to typing sessions. The Quinn switches are described as bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant, offering a unique combination of tones depending on the user's preference and setup.
When it comes to feel, the Cream Yellow tactile switch lacks specific descriptors in the provided information, suggesting a more generic tactile experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switches offer a variety of tactile sensations such as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. These descriptors indicate that the Quinn switches provide a versatile and dynamic typing feel, catering to different tactile preferences ranging from responsive and smooth to elastic and prominent tactility. Users can expect a lively and refined typing experience that suits their specific tactile needs.
In conclusion, the Outemu Cream Yellow and Gateron Quinn switches offer contrasting qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cream Yellow provides a quiet and neutral sound profile with a more generic tactile feel, the Gateron Quinn switches deliver a deep and resonant sound along with a diverse range of tactile sensations to cater to varying preferences. Depending on whether you prefer a subtle and quiet typing experience or a rich and immersive sound profile with dynamic tactile feedback, both switches offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your preference for sound and feel, as well as other factors like keyboard setup and keycap selection that can further influence the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a switch with no specific standout feature, the Cream Yellow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile, along with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Quinn switch would be more suited to your preferences. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided to determine which switch aligns better with your typing preferences and overall typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force.
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