Outemu Cream Yellow vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Yellow and TTC Silent Red offer distinct experiences for users. The Cream Yellow is a tactile switch that is best known for its unique characteristics, while the Silent Red is a linear switch that prioritizes a smooth and noiseless typing experience. If you're looking for a switch that provides a satisfying tactile feedback, the Cream Yellow might be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a quiet and seamless typing experience, the Silent Red could be the ideal choice. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 TTC Silent Red, we can see that the Cream Yellow utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, whereas the Silent Red uses polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The Cream Yellow's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, the Silent Red's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer plastic that leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. While both switches feature nylon for the bottom housing, the difference in the top housing material significantly affects the overall sound profile of each switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Cream Yellow and the Silent Red, both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing. This commonality means that they will both elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softness absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, where they differ is in the top housing material: the Cream Yellow's nylon top housing provides a more muted and rounded sound, while the Silent Red's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and clearer sound. This distinction highlights how even a slight variation in housing material can have a significant impact on the overall sound profile of a switch.
Considering the impact of housing materials on the sound profile of switches, it becomes clear that the material used for the top housing plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound characteristics. The Cream Yellow's nylon top housing creates a more subdued and muted sound, while the Silent Red's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and more resonant sound. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Silent Red allows for RGB lighting effects due to its translucency, adding an aesthetic element to the switch. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Cream Yellow and the TTC Silent Red will depend on the desired sound profile and aesthetic preferences of the user, as each housing material offers a unique auditory experience.
Weight
The Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and TTC Silent Red linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a light touch for smooth typing. However, when it comes to bottom-out force, the Cream Yellow requires 60 grams, while the Silent Red requires 63.5 grams, making it slightly heavier. This means that while both switches offer a similar actuation force, the Silent Red will provide a bit more resistance when fully pressed. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Cream Yellow may be the better option, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Silent Red may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a bit of extra resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, the Cream Yellow has a shorter travel distance of 3.3mm while the Silent Red has a longer travel distance of 3.7mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for a quicker response time. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Cream Yellow for faster key presses. However, those who prefer a more substantial feeling when typing may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Silent Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Cream Yellow and TTC Silent Red switches offer vastly different experiences. The Cream Yellow's sound profile remains unknown, while the Silent Red is praised for its muted sound, making it ideal for quieter environments such as an office or shared living space. The Cream Yellow's sound may vary depending on other factors like keyboard housing and keycaps, but the Silent Red's built-in noise reduction provides a more subdued typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow's tactile feedback is not specified, whereas the Silent Red is described as having a buttery and polished feel with a mild typing experience. This indicates that the Silent Red switch offers a smooth and refined keystroke, providing consistent feedback and a comfortable typing experience. While the Cream Yellow's feel remains a mystery, the Silent Red's qualities make it a popular choice for those seeking a gentle and effortless typing sensation.
Overall, when comparing the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that they offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Yellow's tactile feedback and sound profile remain unknown, while the Silent Red is praised for its muted sound and buttery, polished feel. Both switches offer unique benefits, but if a quieter and smoother typing experience is desired, the Silent Red may be the preferred choice. Nonetheless, individual preferences and typing habits will ultimately determine which switch is the best fit for each user.
Conclusion
In closing, if you value a smooth and quiet typing experience, especially in an office or shared living space setting, the TTC Silent Red linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its muted sound profile and buttery feel, you can enjoy a seamless and comfortable typing session. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom-out force and are looking for a switch without any specific standout characteristics, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and environment in which you will be using the keyboard. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different needs, so choose wisely based on what matters most to you.
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