Outemu Cream Yellow vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves debating between tactility and linearity. In the case of the Outemu Cream Yellow, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, a linear switch, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference. The Cream Yellow is known for its smooth feel, while the Zero Degree 0° excels in revolutionizing silent typing with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure. Each switch offers unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, it is evident that they both use nylon for the bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its softer qualities that absorb sound effectively. Despite this similarity, it is important to note that the Cream Yellow utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, while the Zero Degree 0° features a polycarbonate top housing. This key difference results in a crisper, higher-pitched sound profile for the Zero Degree 0°, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic compared to nylon, creating a more resonant sound.
However, the use of nylon for the Cream Yellow's top housing creates a unique sound experience as well. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound profile that may be preferred by some users. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Zero Degree 0° offers a clearer and more distinct sound, especially ideal for those looking to showcase RGB lighting due to its translucency. This difference in material highlights how the top housing can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, making it an important consideration for enthusiasts and gamers alike.
In conclusion, while both the Outemu Cream Yellow and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, their choice of top housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal. The Cream Yellow's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and more resonant sound. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and whether RGB lighting is a priority, as the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the Cream Yellow requires a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Zero Degree 0° does not have a specified bottom out force. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Cream Yellow is heavier in terms of bottoming out compared to the Zero Degree 0°. The actuation force for both switches is the same, providing a similar typing experience in that aspect. Weight plays a crucial role in determining the typing experience, with lighter switches being preferred for extended typing sessions and heavier switches for a more substantial feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding the desired actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we can see that the Cream Yellow has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Zero Degree 0° with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. While both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances, the Cream Yellow offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter distance. Gamers and users looking for a faster keypress may lean towards the Cream Yellow. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° provides a bit more depth in its travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
The Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer distinct qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Cream Yellow switch is known for its silence, providing a quiet typing experience ideal for shared workspaces or late-night gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch by Gateron revolutionizes silent typing with its innovative design that absorbs sound and reduces noise, creating a smooth and stable typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow switch offers a tactile feedback that provides a satisfying bump during actuation, enhancing typing accuracy and feedback. Conversely, the Zero Degree 0° switch provides a unique soft and elastic feel due to its self-padding design and dual-rail structure, offering a smooth typing experience that prioritizes comfort and stability.
When considering all available information, it is clear that the Cream Yellow and the Zero Degree 0° switches cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. If you prefer a quiet typing experience with tactile feedback, the Cream Yellow switch is a great choice. However, if you value smoothness, stability, and a noise-reducing design, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance, but the decision should be based on personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and tactile feedback, the Cream Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a silent typing experience with a unique self-padding design and smooth linear feel, the Zero Degree 0° switch from Gateron would be a great option. Consider these factors and choose the switch that best suits your typing needs.
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