Outemu Cream Yellow vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Gateron Smoothie are both popular choices, each offering unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cream Yellow is a tactile switch with a reputation for its None characteristic, while the Smoothie is a linear switch celebrated for its Buttery, Thocky, Low-pitched, Creamy, Subdued, and Silky qualities. If you value a satisfying tactile feedback when typing, the Cream Yellow may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and consistent keystroke with a subtle yet fulfilling sound profile, the Gateron Smoothie 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Gateron Smoothie, one key difference lies in the top housing material used. The Cream Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Smoothie features a POM top housing, creating a unique and pleasing deeper sound that is relatively more muted. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the Cream Yellow's nylon housing may produce a slightly rounder sound compared to the Smoothie's POM housing.
Another point of comparison between the two switches can be found in their bottom housing materials. The Cream Yellow employs a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to its top housing. This characteristic is attributed to nylon's softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Smoothie uses a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to the deep and pleasing sound profile of the switch. The POM bottom housing may offer a slightly more muted sound compared to the Cream Yellow's nylon bottom housing.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Outemu Cream Yellow and Gateron Smoothie differ, both switches share similar qualities in providing a deep and unique sound profile. The Cream Yellow's nylon housing offers a fuller sound with a rounder tone due to its ability to absorb more sound. On the other hand, the Smoothie's POM housing creates a pleasing sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. Both materials bring their own characteristics to the switches, resulting in a satisfying typing experience for users looking for switches with distinct sound profiles.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, we can see some notable differences. The Cream Yellow has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Smoothie's 40 grams. This means that the Cream Yellow will require a bit more force to register a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Yellow has a higher 60-gram force compared to the Smoothie's unknown force. This suggests that the Cream Yellow will provide a more substantial typing experience, as it requires more force to fully press down the key. In terms of weight, the Cream Yellow is slightly heavier than the Smoothie, which may appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with some preferring the lighter actuation force of the Smoothie for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Cream Yellow for a more satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch is shorter at 3.3 mm compared to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch at 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize fast response times in their typing or gaming experience. However, the slight difference in travel distance may provide a slightly different feel when typing. The Cream Yellow may feel a bit more responsive due to its shorter travel distance, while the Smoothie may offer a tad more depth in key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 tactile switch is known for producing a sound that is currently unknown. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is celebrated for its thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound profile. The thocky sound signature of the Smoothie switch delivers a deep and satisfying "thud" or "knock" when pressed, along with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. While the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, the Smoothie switch offers a unique auditory experience compared to the Cream Yellow.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Cream Yellow switch's tactile feedback is currently unknown. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie switch is renowned for its buttery, creamy, and silky keystroke experience. The buttery feel of the Smoothie switch provides a smooth and fluid typing sensation, while the creamy sensation offers a silky and effortless typing experience akin to gliding across the keys with ease. Additionally, the silky feel enhances the smoothness of typing and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Overall, the tactile properties of the Smoothie switch deliver a luxurious typing experience that differs from the Cream Yellow.
In conclusion, while the subjective qualities of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch may remain unknown, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch stands out for its thocky sound signature and buttery, creamy, and silky feel. If you are seeking a switch that combines a unique auditory experience with a smooth and effortless typing sensation, the Smoothie switch may be the ideal choice for you. However, keep in mind that personal preferences and typing preferences should ultimately guide your decision when selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, you should choose the Cream Yellow if you prefer a medium bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a reputation for a specific feature that aligns with your preferences. On the other hand, opt for the Gateron Smoothie if you value a switch with a unique all-POM construction that provides a thocky sound profile, exceptional smoothness, and a light touch. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to determine which aligns best with your typing preferences and overall keyboard experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch boils down to your individual preferences and the typing experience you desire.
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