Outemu Cream Yellow vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu cream yellow and the Jwick taro. The cream yellow is a tactile switch that is best known for its smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the taro is also a tactile switch, recognized for its comfortable and cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility. While the cream yellow is categorized as tactile, the taro falls under categories like neutral, buttery, and stepped. Each switch offers its own unique features and benefits, making them attractive options for different types of users. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Jwick Taro switches offer different sound profiles and aesthetics due to their composition. The Cream Yellow's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Taro's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the Cream Yellow's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a duller and rounder sound, similar to its top housing, while the Taro's nylon bottom housing likely offers a similar sound profile due to the characteristics of nylon material.
The use of nylon in the housing materials of both the Cream Yellow and Taro switches results in switches that elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in sound profile between the two switches showcases how the choice of housing material can impact the typing experience and ultimately the overall feel of the keyboard. However, the Taro's polycarbonate top housing offers a more resonant and clear sound, providing a contrast to the Cream Yellow's nylon top housing.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housing materials of a switch play a significant role in determining the overall sound profile and typing experience. While both the Cream Yellow and Taro switches share nylon as a housing material, the Taro's polycarbonate top housing creates a distinct, sharper sound profile. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings of a switch contribute differently to the sound when typing and releasing a key, highlighting the importance of housing materials in customizing and fine-tuning the typing experience to suit individual preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch to the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Taro has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter touch may prefer the Cream Yellow for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Taro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Taro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cream Yellow. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. However, the difference of 0.4 mm may result in a slightly deeper press with the Taro switch, providing a more substantial feel for those who prefer it. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switch provides a cozy typing experience with acute and crisp clacks, offering a subtle yet satisfying auditory feedback while typing. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that will enhance your overall typing experience, whether you prefer a neutral sound like the Cream Yellow or a more distinctive sound like the Taro.
In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switch is best known for its smooth keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The Jwick Taro switch, on the other hand, offers a buttery feel with a stepped actuation, giving users a mild and comfortable typing experience. Both switches offer different tactile sensations, with the Cream Yellow providing a more uniform feel and the Taro offering a slightly more nuanced typing experience with its stepped actuation.
Overall, both the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Cream Yellow provides a neutral sound profile and a smooth keystroke experience, the Taro switch offers a cozy typing experience with acute and crisp clacks, along with a buttery and stepped feel. Whether you prefer a more traditional typing experience or enjoy a slightly more tactile feel, both of these switches will provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers looking to explore different mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch or the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it comes down to personal preference and what qualities you prioritize in a switch. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a quieter sound profile, the Cream Yellow may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom out force and are seeking a switch with a more buttery and stepped tactile feel, the Taro switch may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to carefully consider your typing style and preferences before making a decision.
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