Outemu Cream Yellow vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Cream Yellow, a tactile switch, and the HMX Swift, a linear switch. The Cream Yellow is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump when pressed. On the other hand, the Swift stands out for its smooth keypress and deeper sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. While HMX switches are typically known for their brighter sound signature, the Swifts offer a unique combination of a silkier feel and a delicate 42g actuation force. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences, 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
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
Ly
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 extended spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Cream Yellow and the HMX Swift utilize nylon as their top and bottom housing material. This means that both switches will have a similar sound profile, with a deeper and fuller sound when typing due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The duller and rounder sound produced by both switches can create a more satisfying typing experience for users who enjoy a softer and quieter sound while typing.
However, despite both switches using nylon for their housing material, there may still be subtle differences in the sound profile due to variations in design and construction. While both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound, the specific nuances of the bottom and top housing configurations may result in slight differences in feel and sound when typing on each switch. These differences may be more noticeable to users who are sensitive to changes in sound and feel while typing.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Cream Yellow and the HMX Swift may come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience. Both switches offer a similar sound profile and tactile feel due to their nylon housing material, but slight differences in construction may create nuanced variations in the typing experience. Users who appreciate a deeper and fuller sound when typing may find both switches to be suitable options, with the decision ultimately resting on individual preferences for subtle differences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Cream Yellow has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Swift's 42 grams, making it slightly heavier in that aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Yellow requires 60 grams while the Swift only needs 50 grams, making the Swift the lighter option overall. The Cream Yellow provides a more substantial typing experience with a medium actuation and bottom out force, ideal for those seeking a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Swift offers a lighter typing experience, perfect for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing comfort and performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. The Cream Yellow's travel distance is shorter than the Swift's, which means it will require less distance for the switch to actuate when pressed. This can be beneficial for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Swift's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press experience for those who prefer a deeper actuation feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and actuation depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 its quiet and smooth operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is characterized as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke. The Swift's deeper sound profile, combined with its silky smooth feel and low actuation force, creates a unique auditory experience that stands out from the Cream Yellow.
In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switch offers a tactile bump during actuation, providing feedback to the user without being overly pronounced. The Swift switch, on the other hand, is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy, offering a light and responsive typing experience with a spring-like feedback sensation. This combination of characteristics makes the Swift switch a versatile option for users who prefer a smoother and more effortless typing feel compared to the slightly more tactile Cream Yellow switch.
In conclusion, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cream Yellow provides a quiet and subtle typing experience with a tactile bump, the Swift switch delivers a clacky sound profile and a smooth, light actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience, but both switches are sure to provide a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, you should consider your preference for actuation force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and a switch best known for its smoothness, the Cream Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and a switch best known for its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, the Swift could be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for.
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