Outemu Cream Blue vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Blue and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Blue and Sarokeys Purple Sakura are two popular options to consider. The Cream Blue is known for its smooth operation and falls under the category of linear switches, while the Purple Sakura stands out for introducing tactile switches with a snappy response and a decadently buttery downstroke. With a delicate balance of pronounced tactility that is not overpowering, the Purple Sakura offers a mild and neutral sound signature during typing. Each switch has its own unique qualities that make them appealing choices for 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
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Cream Blue and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches feature different housing materials for both the top and bottom sections. The Cream Blue uses nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic composition. While both switches have unique qualities in terms of sound production, the Cream Blue's nylon housing may provide a slightly rounder sound compared to the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate housing.
In terms of aesthetics, the Cream Blue and Purple Sakura switches also differ in their housing materials. The Cream Blue's nylon top housing offers a classic and timeless look, while the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing is clear, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. The translucency of polycarbonate adds a visually appealing element to the switch, showcasing the inner components and allowing for vibrant lighting customization. While the Cream Blue may offer a more traditional appearance with its nylon housing, the Purple Sakura stands out with its modern and sleek polycarbonate top housing.
When comparing the bottom housing of the Cream Blue and Purple Sakura switches, both use nylon material, resulting in a similar sound profile with a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The qualities of the bottom housing have a direct impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a consistent experience across both switches. While the top housing material may influence the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in delivering a satisfying typing experience for both the Cream Blue and Purple Sakura switches.
Weight
The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch both have an actuation force of 50 grams, making them equally light in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, the Cream Blue has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Purple Sakura's 60 grams. This indicates that the Cream Blue will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Purple Sakura offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a heavier or lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Cream Blue has a longer distance compared to the shorter distance of the Purple Sakura. A 4 mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a deeper key press feel, while a 3.2 mm travel distance is shallower and may be preferred by gamers for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
The Outemu Cream Blue 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 Blue clicky switch lacks a distinctive reputation, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch is noted for its neutral and mild sound profile. The Cream Blue's sound characteristics remain unspecified, making it a bit of a wildcard in terms of auditory experience. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch offers a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various typing preferences, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard layout and keycap material used.
Moving on to the feel, the Outemu Cream Blue switch does not have a specific tactile description available, leaving its typing experience somewhat ambiguous. In contrast, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is described as buttery, mild, and snappy. A buttery feel implies a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless typing sensation. The mild tactility of the Purple Sakura switch offers a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users, while its snappy response ensures a lively and responsive feel during typing sessions.
Overall, while the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch lacks specific information regarding its sound and feel, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch stands out for its balanced tactility, neutral sound profile, and smooth keystroke sensation. Both switches may offer a satisfying typing experience, with the Purple Sakura switch providing more detailed insights into its subjective qualities. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, either switch can deliver a pleasant and responsive typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider your preference for a heavier actuation force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, the Cream Blue may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force of 60 grams, along with a buttery and snappy typing experience, the Purple Sakura switch would be the more suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and sound and feel preferences.
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