Outemu Cream Yellow vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Gazzew U4T both offer unique qualities for typing enthusiasts to consider. The Cream Yellow is notable for its smooth and tactile typing experience, while the U4T is praised for its harmonious blend of thockiness and sharp tactility. Each switch brings its own set of characteristics to the table, with the Cream Yellow offering a more traditional tactile feel and the U4T providing a satisfyingly bassy 'thock' sound profile. If you're looking for a switch that provides a smooth and tactile typing experience, the Cream Yellow may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you're seeking a switch that combines a satisfying sound profile with assertive tactility, the U4T may be more up your alley. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Cream Yellow and the Gazzew U4T both use housing materials that are designed to enhance the sound profile of the switches. The Cream Yellow utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the U4T features a proprietary Gazzew blend for both its top and bottom housings, also known for delivering a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. In this aspect, both switches aim to provide a similar typing experience with a focus on sound quality.
However, where the two switches differ is in the specific properties of their respective housing materials. The Cream Yellow's nylon housing is described to create a duller and rounder sound profile while the U4T's Gazzew blend is said to produce a richer and deeper sound. This suggests that while both switches may offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality, there might be subtle differences in the tone and texture of the produced sound. These distinctions in sound characteristics can cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a specific type of typing or gaming experience.
Furthermore, the split between the top and bottom housing materials of a switch can also impact the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, will be felt more when pressing down on a switch. Conversely, the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This means that the choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom can work together to create a harmonious typing experience that is not only responsive but also aesthetically pleasing. Both the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Gazzew U4T take advantage of this split to fine-tune the sound and feel of their switches for a more customized typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, we see that the Cream Yellow has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the U4T with an unknown actuation force. However, the U4T has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Cream Yellow's 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category for bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cream Yellow may be the better option, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the U4T offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Cream Yellow has a shorter travel distance compared to the U4T. The Cream Yellow's 3.3mm distance may appeal to those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the U4T's 4mm travel distance provides a more substantial feeling when typing, which some users may prefer for a more deliberate key press. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, but ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Cream Yellow comes in at $3.10, whereas the Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50.
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
In terms of sound, the Cream Yellow switch does not have a specific reputation, while the Gazzew U4T switch is known for its bassy and thocky sound profile. The Cream Yellow's sound characteristics remain ambiguous, so while using these switches, you may achieve a similar auditory experience with the U4T providing a deeper and richer sound quality during key presses thanks to its bassy nature.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cream Yellow's tactile feedback is not well-defined, while the Gazzew U4T switch is recognized for its sharp and intense tactile bump. This means that when typing on the U4T switches, users can expect a distinct and pronounced tactile feedback with every key press, offering a satisfying typing experience that emphasizes feedback intensity.
Taking all available information into account, it is clear that the Gazzew U4T tactile switch excels in both sound and feel aspects compared to the Outemu Cream Yellow switch. The U4T offers a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, providing a superior auditory and tactile feedback experience. However, if you are seeking a switch with unknown sound and feel characteristics like the Cream Yellow, opting for the U4T switch may still ensure a satisfying typing experience overall.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values a medium bottom out force and is looking for a tactile switch with no specific standout feature, the Outemu Cream Yellow might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom out force, and are seeking a switch that offers a unique blend of a bassy 'thock' sound profile and sharp tactile feedback, then the Gazzew U4T would be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile, as both switches offer their own distinct characteristics for a satisfying typing experience.
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